Where the future grows on trees

'The transition to a greener economy is moving at full speed, and we have no time to lose. Fortunately, many businesses in Innlandet are already on board, particularly in bio-based industries and agricultural and forestry technology,' Bjørnstad continues.

He adds that everything happening around the region's educational institutions looks promising. We now have two universities in the region: the Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Gjøvik and the Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences. Both have technology transfer offices, and we expect more start-ups to emerge from these important institutions.

MOBAI AS in Gjøvik is a good example. The company provides biometric solutions that enable secure digital verification in international markets. Its solution helps reduce fraud and make society safer. In other words, it is a win-win solution! The company has used our services both locally and internationally. 

- So my message to businesses in Innlandet is this: Think big. Be bold. Think Innovation Norway. If faith can move mountains, surely our trees can reach for the sky! We are Norway's largest forestry county for a reason.

He highlights Bionova, the government funding scheme for green transition and the use of bioresources in agriculture, forestry and aquaculture. 'Bionova is a highly relevant scheme that we recommend to many companies,' Bjørnstad explains.

- Our region is also home to strong industrial companies with technology and products that are ready to compete internationally. Take Trysil RMM, for example. Deep in the forest, they manufacture road-marking machines that are now used on motorways in the US, the Netherlands and Italy. The company has made use of our full range of services and received close support throughout the export process, including advisory and expertise that help minimise risk and provide rapid access to new markets, says Bjørnstad.

He draws on history, explaining that ever since James Watt invented the steam engine, there have been countless examples of how technology in one field can drive progress in others.

'Our office is home to experts in internationalisation, funding and the green transition in agriculture and forestry. We encourage innovative companies to explore new areas and find partners where their technology can help solve new challenges. What could be worse than being green with envy when you could be achieving what others have achieved?' Bjørnstad points out.

- We are also very proud of our county in other areas, such as tourism. Innlandet is Norway's skiing paradise, filling hotels and cabins throughout the winter. Ski enthusiasts from across Europe bring their euros here rather than gamble on good snow conditions closer to home.

But he believes they can improve even further in this area

'Although things are moving in the right direction, we believe everyone would benefit from a more coordinated approach to marketing communications. We may have something to learn from Fjord Norway and Northern Norway Tourist Board. We at our regional office in Innlandet are keen to support this development, but the industry itself must take the initiative.'

'Don't hesitate to get in touch with us,' Bjørnstad encourages.

- We see ourselves as the business community’s ‘local shop’, where ambitious companies and destinations can access the knowledge, contacts and capital they need to commercialise and grow internationally. Our dedicated advisers can also guide you towards EU development funding available through the EEA Agreement. Norway was recently included in InvestEU, the EU’s flagship financial instrument for loans, financial guarantees and equity investments. Receiving this type of support is a mark of quality in itself and helps companies grow internationally.

Bjørnstad has this message for ambitious business leaders in the region: Make the most of the support available through the business support system, and let’s think bigger together!