– Contributing to more young Norwegian students choosing to start their own business is one of the most important things Innovation Norway does, says managing director Håkon Haugli. – Norway needs more good start-up companies that can scale and create value for owners and for Norway. It is fantastic to see that some of the country’s brightest students choose to invest as entrepreneurs! It is very important, and we at Innovation Norway will do our best to contribute to their success.
Get free newsletter
Subscribe to Shifter’s newsletter for the latest news, trends and analysis.
Strong increase in the number of applicants
This year the competition was tougher than for a long time, with an almost 50 per cent increase in the number of applicants. The applications came from 14 different universities and colleges, so here the whole country is involved in the work of creating new, innovative start-up companies. More companies at study centers than before are receiving grants. NTNU is still best in class with the most STUD-ENT recipients, but the award is distributed among nine universities and colleges.
– The fact that more students are opening their eyes to this opportunity is very gratifying. Starting a business is hard work and requires a lot of work. Such support can help the founders to focus on their project. In addition, it is very important for Norway that more innovative companies appear, says Minister for Business Cecilie Myrseth.
Briefly about this year’s winners
One of the criteria for applying is that you must be registered as a student at a Norwegian university or college. Innovation Norway received 60 applications from 14 universities. 38 of the applicants were invited to pitch their project for Innovation Norway. Everyone who receives support from STUD-ENT is also offered a mentor funded by Innovation Norway.
