Ulla Ristkari joins LAB’s StartHub ecosystem, strengthening Kuuki’s regional impact

PRESS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Press release originally published in Finnish

Kuuki strengthens regional impact and collaboration in Lahti: Client and Marketing Director Ulla Ristkari appointed to lead the StartHub business incubator and community

Kuuki’s expertise is strengthening the innovation and growth ecosystem of the Päijät-Häme region as Ulla Ristkari, co-founder and Client & Marketing Director of Kuuki, assumed the role of Head of Operations at StartHub on January 15, 2026. Based at LAB University of Applied Sciences’ Lahti campus, StartHub is a startup incubator and entrepreneurial community where Ristkari’s work focuses on renewing strategy, supporting growth, and developing regional impact through stronger communities and partnerships.

Ristkari will continue her role on Kuuki’s Board of Directors and as a strategic expert. The appointment supports Kuuki’s strategy to strengthen the company’s visibility, networks, and collaboration with educational institutions, growth companies, and regional development actors.

“We want to drive growth in the region while strengthening our clients’ future. Ulla’s new role is a strong demonstration of Kuuki’s expertise, our long-standing collaboration with educational institutions, business incubators, and growth companies, and our position as part of the regional development ecosystem,” Kuuki’s Board of Directors states.

Ristkari brings to StartHub extensive experience in business development and marketing, supporting startups and SMEs, building communities, and working with stakeholder networks.

“Local impact is more important than ever. I see this as a tremendous opportunity to build bridges that benefit the entire business community of the Lahti region,” Ristkari says.