Les saken på norsk NORDSEC and Ocean Autonomy Cluster were pleased to host Esben Gadsbøll, Chairman and co-initiator of Danish Tech Startups and one of the initiators behind the Defense Innovation Highway, together with Sigbjørn Albertsen from the Norwegian-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce (NUCC). The visit to Trondheim was part of efforts to strengthen Norwegian-Ukrainian technological cooperation, with a particular focus on ocean and defense technologies. The program included a visit to Operasjon Gugne, the training program where the Norwegian Home Guard in Trøndelag provides instruction to Ukrainian soldiers, giving the guests close insight into cooperation on the ground. As part of the visit, the guests were also introduced to pioneering research and technological solutions for autonomous maritime systems at the NTNU Shore Control Lab. They later visited Veteranhuset Midt-Norge, where they received an introduction to veteran work in Trondheim and the house’s strong engagement in support for Ukraine. Maxime Audrain from NTNU demonstrates the Shore Control Lab for Sigbjørn Albertsen from NUCC. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Next step: Tech meetup in Trondheim Following the visit, plans are now underway to organize a Norwegian-Ukrainian tech meetup in Trondheim in collaboration with the Ocean Autonomy Cluster. The aim is to create a physical arena where innovators, startups, academia, and businesses from both countries can come together. The event will have a particular emphasis on ocean technology, defense technology, and the development of new opportunities for cooperation. Demonstration at NTNU Shore Control Lab. From left: Maxime Audrain, NTNU; Esben Gadsbøll, Danish Tech Startups; Sigbjørn Albertsen, NUCC; and Tevje Ravn Eggan, NORDSEC. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Defense Innovation Highway The Defense Innovation Highway is a platform established to accelerate cooperation in defense innovation between Ukraine and the Nordic countries. By connecting startups, investors, and private-sector defense actors, DIH helps bring forward innovation with rapid implementation, including through delegation visits and networking arenas in both Ukraine and the Nordics. Norwegian-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce The Norwegian-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce (NUCC) is a member-based, non-commercial organization established in 2008 to promote business and trade relations between Norway and Ukraine. The organization contributes to a better understanding of the Ukrainian market and facilitates collaboration between companies in both countries through networking, advisory services, matchmaking, and support for sustainable development.
Les saken på norsk For the first time, Innovation Norway is establishing a presence in Ukraine, marking a significant step for Norwegian businesses entering a market characterized by both challenges and opportunities. I look forward to traveling to Kyiv and getting started on the job, says Ole Henæs. Currently serving as Regional Director for Asia and the Middle East, Henæs will now take on the role of Country Director for Ukraine. We need to ramp up quickly, and it will be crucial to connect with existing networks, he says. Henæs brings valuable experience from both the Norwegian defense industry and commercial enterprises and will lead efforts to support Norwegian companies in Ukraine. Close Collaboration with Norwegian Industry Despite the ongoing war, several Norwegian companies are already investing and operating in Ukraine. Innovation Norway’s presence in Kyiv will help strengthen these initiatives and facilitate new business opportunities. Norwegian companies possess technology, expertise, and solutions that can play a crucial role in Ukraine’s reconstruction. Increased presence in the country will provide them with better support and access to relevant networks. We will work with Norwegian companies already in Ukraine and attract new, relevant businesses. Our job is to create value for Norwegian industry, including through partnerships with Ukrainian businesses, says Henæs. This will be beneficial for both Norway and Ukraine, he adds. Ole Henæs, Innovasjon Norge Security and Defense – A Key Focus Area For the defense and security industries, Innovation Norway’s establishment in Ukraine opens new avenues for collaboration and exchange. NORDSEC is closely monitoring developments and sees growing interest in Norwegian technology and solutions for defense and emergency preparedness. Innovation Norway’s office in Kyiv will provide valuable insight and support for Norwegian stakeholders looking to contribute to Ukraine’s security and reconstruction. Collaboration with Key Stakeholders Innovation Norway’s efforts in Kyiv will be carried out in close collaboration with the Norwegian Embassy and the Norwegian–Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce (NUCC). Together, these entities form Team Norway Ukraine, working to strengthen trade relations between Norway and Ukraine. With a growing focus on Norwegian business in Ukraine, NORDSEC looks forward to following developments and facilitating connections between the defense and security industry and relevant opportunities in the country. Read more about international initiatives and exports to Ukraine.