Innovators at heart: the story behind Innokas
For over three decades, Finnish-based Innokas has been a trusted partner in designing, developing, and manufacturing medical devices. As a family-owned Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), Innokas has become a Nordic leader in creating complex electromechanical devices, software, and quality assurance solutions for regulated industries. Over the years, the company has worked on hundreds of medical device development projects, tackling challenges that have sharpened its expertise and solidified its reputation for quality and reliability.
Recently, Innokas has expanded beyond healthcare, leveraging its experience and capabilities to enter new industries such as agriculture, energy, EV infra, cleantech, and defense. As one of Innokas’ Agritech customers described their strength “If you can make medical devices, you can make almost anykind of device”. This expertise allows Innokas to apply its quality standards to innovative projects in these new fields, from regulated AI and machine learning to sustainable supply chain solutions and circular economy design principles.
Shaping the future of innovation and partnerships
At the forefront of Innokas’ expansion efforts is Visa Poikela, Sales Manager for Services. Since joining Innokas 1.5 years ago, Visa has been instrumental in driving business development, particularly in the Netherlands market. His role goes beyond traditional sales; it’s about creating meaningful partnerships and exploring collaborative opportunities that align with Innokas’ vision of delivering impactful solutions.
“It’s not just about entering a market,” Poikela explains. “We work closely with local partners to create solutions that genuinely add value and address challenges together.” With a background in B2B sales and a career-long focus on meaningful solutions that improve patients' quality of life, Visa brings both expertise and a passion for innovation to Innokas’ growth journey.
Expanding horizons: Innokas’ ambitious plans for the Netherlands
The Netherlands plays a key role in Innokas’ strategy for growth. With three Dutch clients already on board in the medical device sector, the company aims to deepen its presence through collaborations with local businesses, partnerships with ecosystems, and engagement with innovation networks. Over the next three to five years, Innokas aims to expand significantly in the region, with the long-term plan of establishing a local operation to better serve its Dutch customers and partners.
Innokas views the Netherlands as a hub for innovation and a natural fit for its expertise. “The Nordic markets are limited for further growth,” Poikela notes. “The Netherlands offers an exciting opportunity to connect with forward-thinking companies and ecosystems that align with our goals.” With a multichannel approach that includes direct sales, partnerships, ecosystem collaboration, and venture capital networks, Innokas is building a solid foundation for sustainable growth in the region.
Health Valley: a gateway to growth and collaboration
Health Valley has been a cornerstone of Innokas’ journey into the Dutch market. Four years ago Innokas joined Health valley as first Nordic company, and Health Valley became Innokas’ first formal connection to the Netherlands. Through networking events and open discussions, the organization has helped Innokas navigate the Dutch healthcare landscape and understand the opportunities and challenges of entering a foreign market.
“Health Valley has not only opened doors for us but also introduced us to other ecosystems and networks in the Netherlands,” Poikela shares. Their support has gone beyond access to events, offering valuable insights and connections that have strengthened Innokas’ presence in the region.
We’re not just entering the market; we’re aiming to collaborate and innovate together. - Visa Poikela, Sales Manager at Innokas Medical Ltd.
A shared vision: call for vollaboration across the Health Valley network
Innokas invites the Health Valley network to join them in discussion about innovation and partnership possibilities in the Netherlands. The company is eager to collaborate with organizations that share its vision of solving complex challenges in healthcare and technology. Beyond healthcare, Innokas welcomes partnerships in its newly diversified fields, such as agritech and cleantech, where its expertise can drive impactful solutions.
“We’re not just looking for clients,” Poikela emphasizes. “We’re building relationships that foster mutual growth and innovation.” As part of their strategy, Innokas envisions hosting events in collaboration with Health Valley and other partners. “Perhaps one day, we could organize a gathering where Dutch companies share their experiences of working with Innokas. It would be a great way to strengthen our ties and showcase the possibilities of collaboration,” Poikela suggests.
Long-term commitment to innovation
Innokas’ journey reflects its dedication to adaptability, partnership, and excellence. With over 30 years of expertise, the company is well-positioned to make a meaningful impact in the Netherlands and beyond.
With the continued support of Health Valley and its network, Innokas is well on its way to achieving its vision of becoming a trusted partner in innovation in the area.
