***PRELIMINARY*** Programme and Schedule

Start the day with a relaxed breakfast in the hotel restaurant from 07.00 am onwards, before diving into a full programme of talks, case studies and discussions on the future of hemp.

From 08:30 – Arrival & Registration

Doors open at 08:30. Registration and informal networking.

Morning Sessions

09:30 – 09:40 Opening Remarks – AHE founder Anu Huusko, and Juha Ahola

A short welcome and introduction:
Why hemp matters?

09:40 – 10:10 KEYNOTE: The New Future of Hemp – Challenges, Solutions and a Global Ecosystem – James Cummiskey

10:10 – 12:10 Current Applications of Hemp

Building materials – Janne Salmela, Natural Element Oy
Hempcrete, insulation and biocomposites as part of sustainable construction.

Hemp as food
- For humans - Jyväs-Hamppu Oy
- For animals - Markku Ylivaara, Reserve Captain, reindeer herder

Wellness and Skincare – Mariel Kokkonen
Hemp-based wellness and skincare innovations.

Textiles, smart textiles and bio-based fibres – Hempea Oy
From fibre to advanced materials.

Research around hemp – Noora Norokytö, Turku University

12:10 – 13:10 Lunch & Networking

Buffet lunch and time to connect with farmers, researchers, companies and developers working with hemp.

Afternoon Sessions

13:15 – 13:45 Hemp in the Green Transition and Circular Economy

Carbon sequestration and sustainable cultivation
Recyclability and biodegradability in different applications
International examples of hemp in circular economy models

13:45 – 14:30 New Innovations in Hemp

Replacing fossil-based products with hemp-based solutions
Hemp-derived graphene for energy storage and supercapacitors

14:30 – 15:00 Afternoon Coffee

Coffee break and informal discussions.

15:00 – 15:30 KEYNOTE: Health Applications of Hemp – Dr. Peter Verdegem

Research and the alternatives hemp offers to pharmaceutical formulations. The role of scientific evidence in shaping legislation, and the regulatory tech environment we operate in. Causes and consequences.

15:30 – 16:30 Panel Discussion

How can hemp become a cornerstone of Finland’s sustainable economy?
Moderator: Mariel Kokkonen

Audience Q&A from 16:30 to 16:45

16:45– 16:50 Closing Remarks

Evening Reception 18:00 – 20:00

Round off the day with a relaxed evening reception, with good food, drinks and plenty of time to continue the conversations.

We reserve the right to make changes to the programme and schedule.

Event host: Juha “Vauhtipyörä” Ahola

The event is hosted by Juha “Vauhtipyörä” Ahola. He is an experienced entrepreneur, coach and speaker known for his energetic presence and ability to inspire action. With over 20 years of experience, he has coached companies, teams and organisations to strengthen motivation, collaboration and a culture of practical, hands-on progress. His nickname, “Vauhtipyörä” (Flywheel), perfectly reflects the drive, momentum and positive energy he brings to every event.