Where the future grows on trees

‘The green transition is moving at high 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 developments around the region’s educational institutions are promising. We now have two universities in the region: NTNU in Gjøvik and the University of Inland Norway. Both have technology transfer offices (TTOs), and we expect more startups to spin out of these important institutions.

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

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

He highlights Bionova, the government’s initiative to support the green transition and the use of bioresources in agriculture, forestry and aquaculture. 'Bionova is a well-suited support scheme that we direct many businesses to,' explains Bjørnstad.

'Our region also has strong manufacturing companies with technology and products ready to compete internationally. Take Trysil RMM, for example. Some 20 kilometres into the forest, they manufacture road-marking machines that are now used on motorways in the USA, the Netherlands and Italy. The company has drawn on our full range of support and received close guidance throughout the export process, including advice and expertise that help minimise risk and secure rapid access to new markets,' says Bjørnstad.

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

'Our office has specialists in internationalisation, funding and the green transition in agriculture and forestry. We encourage innovative businesses to look for sectors and partners where their technology can solve new challenges. What could be worse than being green with envy when you could have achieved what others have?' 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 back home.’

But he believes they can do even better 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 could learn something from Fjord Norway and Northern Norway Tourist Board here. At Innovation Norway’s regional office in Innlandet, we are happy to support this development, but the industry itself must take the initiative.'

'Don't hesitate to get in touch,' says Bjørnstad.

‘We see ourselves as the business community’s local shop, where ambitious businesses and destinations can access knowledge, contacts and capital to help them commercialise their ideas and grow abroad. We have dedicated advisors who can guide you towards EU development funding available through the EEA Agreement. Norway recently joined InvestEU, the EU’s flagship programme for loans, financial guarantees and equity instruments. Receiving this support is a mark of quality in itself and helps businesses grow internationally.’

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