KIP Association
Kokkolan Suurteollisuus-alueyhdistys ry (KIP ry)
KIP ry is an association founded in 2006 that brings together companies operating in the Kokkola industrial area. The association was established to strengthen cooperation between companies and prepare for major changes anticipated when Kemira and Outokumpu exited the area. The goal was to coordinate common practices and ensure the area’s competitiveness in the future.
The association currently has 31 members. Membership can be granted to any legal entity that accepts the association’s purpose and operates within or in connection with the Kokkola industrial area. Membership applications can be submitted by requesting a ready-made application template from the Executive Director. Applications are reviewed by the association’s board in its monthly meetings. There are two membership levels: PRO and BASIC.
Objectives of the Association
The key objectives of KIP ry are:
- Promote cooperation among companies operating in the area
- Improve business conditions
- Strengthen the KIP brand and the entire KIP ecosystem
- Enhance the attractiveness of the area for companies and employees
- Develop safety, environmental, and energy matters
- Foster close collaboration with educational and research institutions
Join as a Member
The industrial plants and service companies in Kokkola Industrial Park form a strong and diverse industrial ecosystem. KIP Association provides local operators with a responsible and safe operating environment, a skilled and evolving work community, and a stable infrastructure that supports sustainable growth.
The association sets a new standard for the operation of large industrial areas – emphasizing environmental and social responsibility, trust and cooperation among stakeholders, and a strong and well-known KIP brand.
All companies that conduct business in the KIP area or its sphere of influence and wish to actively contribute to making the area even more attractive are welcome to join KIP Association. Membership applications can be submitted to Executive Director Kaisa Kaapo, who will provide a ready-made application template. Applications are reviewed by the association’s board in its monthly meetings.
Explore the association, its activities, and join us!
For more information and membership applications:
Kaisa Kaapo
Executive director, KIP assn.
kaisa.kaapo@kip.fi
050 059 8018
Events and Networking
KIP ry organizes annual events such as Safety Days, Environment Day, and Energy Day, offering opportunities to learn and share experiences. Key personnel meetings also provide a platform for leaders and experts to network and enhance collaboration.
Training sessions and visits organized by working groups support professional development and knowledge exchange.
Visibility and Communication
Member companies gain visibility through KIP’s marketing materials, including presentations, guided tours, the website, and social media channels, increasing their recognition among a wider audience.
In 2026, KIP Association will further improve internal communication by enhancing information sharing through newsletters and the SSG onSite platform.
International cooperation
KIP Association is the only Finnish and Nordic member of the European Chemical Site Promotion Platform (ECSPP). The organization aims to promote cooperation between chemical industry parks in Europe and market the area to foreign investors.
KIP PRO
Membership
For companies that want to succeed, influence, and stand out as part of Kokkola Industrial Park!
PRO membership is ideal for manufacturing companies and strategic partners whose operations support and develop the area’s ecosystem.
As a PRO member, your company:
- Influences the development of the area by participating in board work and working groups
- Can propose a representative for the KIP ry board and appoint representatives to six working groups: HR, Marketing & Communications, Energy, Environment, Safety, and ICT
- Participates in the Executive Workshop, where CEOs define strategic development directions and joint operating models
- Networks actively at key meetings and events such as Safety Days, Environment Day, and Energy Day
- Develops expertise through training sessions and visits organized by working groups
- Gains strong visibility in KIP’s marketing materials, guided tours, website, and social media
- Enhances its recognition as part of Northern Europe’s largest inorganic chemical industry ecosystem
- Participates in joint projects and events such as KIP Energy Day and Kokkola Material Week
- Receives up-to-date information through KIP’s internal communication channels, such as newsletters and the SSG onSite platform
KIP PRO membership is an impactful way to help develop the area – while strengthening your company’s business, visibility, and networks.
KIP BASIC
Membership
For companies that want to be involved, visible, and stay informed about KIP’s activities!
KIP BASIC membership is designed for companies operating in the KIP area or its sphere of influence and providing services that support the area’s manufacturing operators.
As a BASIC member, your company:
- Can participate in KIP events and gatherings such as Safety Days, Environment Day, and Energy Day
- Networks actively at key meetings and with other local operators
- Utilizes shared marketing channels such as presentations, guided tours, the website, and social media
- Receives up-to-date information through KIP’s internal communication channels, such as newsletters and the SSG onSite platform
- Strengthens its visibility as part of a well-known industrial area
- Promotes regional cooperation and knowledge exchange by joining discussions and sharing experiences
BASIC members are expected to maintain quality operations, reliability, and a good reputation, as well as a willingness to collaborate in developing the area together with other stakeholders.
Board and Executive Workshop
The association’s board is elected at the annual meeting and consists of representatives from the largest companies in the area and the City of Kokkola. The board leads the association’s activities together with the Executive Director, who is responsible for operational activities, coordinating working groups, and stakeholder collaboration. The Executive Director also serves as the board secretary and plays a key role in advancing development work in the area.
Board for 2025:
- Tarja Halonen (Chair), Boliden Kokkola Oy
- Lauri Kokko, Jervois Finland Oy
- Kim Ventin, Ab M. Rauanheimo Oy
- Antti Neuvonen, CABB Oy
- Nora Birkman Neunstedt, City of Kokkola
- Matti Malkamäki, Hycamite TCD Technologies Oy
- Heikki Pihlaja, Sibanye Stillwater Keliber Lithium Project
- Kirsi Hautala, Kokkolan Energia Oy
- Matias Paloranta, Umicore Finland Oy
- Kaisa Kaapo, Kokkola Industrial Park Association (Secretary)
In addition, KIP ry has an Executive Workshop, which brings together CEOs from member organizations to discuss strategic development directions for the entire industrial area. Topics include joint operating models, such as crisis communication, and regional issues like bus transportation.
Working Groups
The association has six active working groups composed of experts from member companies. These groups meet regularly and prepare annual action plans that may include projects, training sessions, visits, and events. Working groups enable knowledge sharing, best practices, and effective communication across the area.
Working Groups and Chairs:
- Environment Group – Jarmo Sillanpää (Boliden Oy)
- Safety Group – Riku Nikula (KIP Service Oy)
- HR Group – Lea Pellinen (Umicore Finland Oy)
- ICT Group – Jussi Lång (KIP Service Oy)
- Energy Group – Leo Byskata (Kosek)
- Marketing Group – Satu Saavalainen (Jervois Finland Oy)
Tasks:
- Environment Group: Promotes environmental cooperation, participates in projects, monitors legislation, and works with authorities.
- Safety Group: Develops common safety practices, identifies best practices, and improves information flow.
- HR Group: Enhances the area’s attractiveness as a workplace, collaborates with educational institutions, and organizes recruitment and training events.
- ICT Group: Develops shared ICT solutions for the area.
- Energy Group: Supports energy cooperation and anticipates future needs (established as a separate group in autumn 2022).
- Marketing Group: Strengthens the KIP brand, develops multichannel communication, and organizes events.
