Riikka Purra leads SME poll for Finnish prime minister

According to the August 2026 Entrepreneur Poll conducted by Suomen Yrittäjät, Riikka Purra, leader of the Finns Party (Perussuomalaiset), is the most preferred candidate for prime minister among small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) representatives. Purra holds 20 percent support, leading ahead of National Coalition Party (Kokoomus) leader Petteri Orpo, who has 17 percent support.

While Kokoomus remains the most popular party among entrepreneurs with 29 percent support, its standing has declined from 36 percent a year ago. The Finns Party has seen an increase, rising to 19 percent from 13 percent in the previous year. Other candidates for prime minister include Center Party leader Antti Kaikkonen at 12 percent and SDP leader Antti Lindtman at 7 percent.

Purra’s support is particularly strong among primary producers and SMEs with 2–9 employees. Mikael Pentikäinen, CEO of Suomen Yrittäjät, noted that Purra’s style and emphasis on strict fiscal management resonate with many respondents. The poll included responses from over one thousand SME representatives.