Xamk and LUT Students Developed Future Business Ideas in Kouvola

The hackathon provided an intensive learning experience focused on Kouvola’s urban development. Maria Lammi, Head of Educational Services, opened the event with insights into Kouvola’s key factors and vitality. Students then worked on their ideas, guided by mentors like Sanna Koskela, CEO of Nuanic, who shared her entrepreneurial journey.

 The first day included team-building and creative problem-solving activities, culminating in an evening at Tykkimäki Sauna, where many international students experienced Finnish sauna and ice swimming for the first time.

 The last two days of the competition were dedicated to ideation and presentations. On the second day, students focused on developing their ideas and had the opportunity to present them to mentors, who challenged them to refine their concepts to meet the competition’s goals. Heidi Järvi from Xamk, Päivi Haapalainen, and Tuomas Hongisto from LUT University provided valuable feedback and advice to help the teams improve their ideas.

 On the final day, the teams presented their work to a jury comprising Sami-Pekka Kalliokoski, (Employment Director of the City of Kouvola), Liisa Kolari (Development Director), Ilona Pilli (Business Advisor at Kouvola Innovation), Petteri Ikonen (Head of Education at Xamk), Marko Torkkeli (Professor TkT from LUT University) and Sanna Koskela (CEO of Nuanic Oy).

During the event, eight teams presented diverse and innovative solutions addressing modern challenges and future needs. The range of ideas spanned from sustainable development solutions to technological innovations, with each team showcasing their unique perspectives and expertise.

 The winning team was selected for their “Fruit Rush” concept, which utilizes drones for harvesting to reduce the amount of berries and mushrooms wasted in Finnish forests. According to the jury, the idea respected nature and the Kouvola region, and it has all the potential for a successful business. Additionally, the jury felt that the idea has the potential for larger-scale business opportunities. The members of the winning team are Daniyal Jawad, Moksh Chedda, Rohan Kandel, Iftakher Hossen and Polina Antonova. The jury praised the idea for its environmental respect and business potential, awarding the team €1250. 

 All business ideas from the event will be utilized in Kouvola’s development, enhancing collaboration between local businesses, educational institutions, and students.

Photos: Sonja Lahtinen