KEKE – Boosting Sustainable Food Sector in Kymenlaakso

The project is implemented as a joint project of the main applicant Kouvola Innovation Ltd and the partners Xamk (South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences), LUT University, Eduko (Kouvola Vocational Institute Ltd) and ProAgria Southern Finland. New food sector trainings in the region and laboratory investments carried out by Xamk, Eduko and LUT in a parallel investment project will both bring a special boost to the project. The Finnish Forest Institute is participating in the project as a co-operating partner.

The development project is divided into seven synergic work packages:

WP1 COOPERATION AND ECOSYSTEM - with the aim of ensuring smooth implementation and cooperation, developing synergy opportunities across industry boundaries (e.g., packaging industry, logistics, circular economy) and intensifying and diversifying cooperation between operators, as well as developing an innovative operating model for the network.

WP2 ACTIVATION AND BUSINESS KNOW-HOW - with the aim of activating companies for cooperation, advice and support, as well as acquiring and sharing the latest information.

WP3 PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATIONS - with the aim of conceptualising and launching new innovation environments built through laboratory investments, strengthening research, testing and product development cooperation at the business interface, developing new innovations and engaging students in business cooperation and the region.

WP4 VALUE NETWORK OF NATURAL PRODUCTS - with the aim of increasing the multiple use of forests and building a value network of natural products.

WP5 TECHNOLOGY, PROCESS AND PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT - with the aim to develop and utilise new technologies, heading towards forerunner position.

WP6 ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY IN THE FOOD SECTOR - with the aims to encourage operators to promote environmental sustainability and reduce environmental impacts.

WP7 VISIBILITY, EVENTS AND INTERNATIONALITY - with the aim of increasing the recognition and visibility of the Kymenlaakso’s food sector, strengthening international networks, and making more efficient use of international funding sources.