Design

The innovation company Kadabra is the latest member to join Ocean Autonomy Cluster, aiming to support the development and commercialization of autonomous ocean technologies. With deep expertise in strategy, design, and implementation, the company plans to be an active contributor to the cluster’s growing ecosystem. Based in Trondheim, Kadabra is a new but experienced innovation firm. The team consists of former key figures from EGGS Design and brings together a multidisciplinary skillset spanning strategy, design, technology, and entrepreneurship. Kadabra works closely with both scale-ups and established companies, particularly in maritime, aquaculture, industrial, and energy sectors—industries known for their high complexity, strict requirements, and bold ambitions. According to CEO Espen A. Jørgensen, this is exactly the kind of environment Kadabra is built for. “We understand the value chains, the risks, and the pace. We don’t just offer advice—we work hands-on with companies to make things happen.” Photo: Kadabra Deep roots in maritime autonomy «While Kadabra was established in 2024, the team behind it brings nearly two decades of experience in maritime autonomy and innovation. Several team members were previously involved in early projects with Maritime Robotics in the mid-2000s, and have since contributed to initiatives with companies such as Zeabuz, Eelume, Blueye, Boreal, Ocean Access, Kongsberg Maritime, and Akvagroup. Joining Ocean Autonomy Cluster is seen as a natural next step—both to reconnect with long-standing collaborators and to actively contribute to one of Norway’s most exciting innovation ecosystems.» says Jørgensen. Espen Jørgensen, Kadabra From strategy to commercialization Kadabra brings a unique blend of early-stage and commercialization expertise, paired with hands-on experience in deploying autonomous and digital systems in operational and industrial settings. The team is known for bridging strategy and technology with real user needs and business models, and for its ability to visualize and communicate complex concepts in clear and compelling ways. Their ambition is to support companies in the cluster not only with strategic advice but also with concrete contributions throughout innovation processes and growth journeys. Photo: Kadabra Looking to build and learn together At the same time, Kadabra is joining the cluster to learn, share, and build together with startups, scale-ups, established industry players, research institutions, and investors. They are particularly interested in contributing to relevant projects and initiatives, building new partnerships, and acting as a bridge between technology development and commercial scaling. They are also keen to explore new business models, forms of collaboration, and application areas for autonomous technologies. The human side of autonomy “Even with full autonomy, the human dimension remains essential,” says Jørgensen. “Trust, user experience, and business models must evolve alongside the technology. That’s where we believe Kadabra can make a real difference—for companies in the cluster, and for the broader development and scaling of Norway’s autonomy ecosystem.” It’s great to bring in the expertise of Kadabra to OAC, which will also strengthen the technical aspect of the MIDAS project. Now, the people behind Kadabra are no strangers to us, so we know they deliver the knowledge and expertise the cluster and our members are seeking, says the leader of the Ocean Autonomy Cluster, Frode Halvorsen. Want to talk about autonomy, growth, and innovation? Get in touch with Espen A. Jørgensen, CEO of Kadabra, at espen@kadabra.com or +47 930 02 430. Photo: Kadabra

Design

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