Belgium
With its increasingly ambitious policy development, the EU creates framework conditions and opportunities that are crucial for Norwegian companies to be aware of. We have in-depth knowledge of EU policymaking, regulations and financing opportunities, and can help your company identify how it can position itself in emerging markets.
What do we do in Brussels?
Our office in Brussels is an important gateway for Norwegian businesses looking to expand in Europe. With their competitive advantages, Norwegian companies are well-positioned to succeed in the new markets emerging as a result of the EU's ambitious climate goals.
Our office in Brussels has insights into various EU schemes that can benefit Norwegian businesses. We help your company understand EU regulations and identify market niches where Norwegian solutions have a competitive edge. Our advisors have broad expertise and can support Norwegian companies entering the European market.
The Brussels office has updated expertise in several key areas important for Norwegian businesses:
Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation
We closely follow EU policy-making on digitization, with a particular focus on artificial intelligence. The AI Act, also known as the Artificial Intelligence Regulation, came into force in August 2024. In continuation of this, the EU is now actively working to ensure both the development and ethical application of artificial intelligence within the internal digital market of Europe.
EU Strategies for Sustainable Economic Growth and Industry
The EU Green Deal and the Fit for 55 package have largely defined the framework conditions and funding opportunities for businesses. Our Brussels office closely monitors the EU's priorities and policy-making, especially in areas such as climate and industry. We assist businesses in understanding the premises being set and identifying the opportunities arising from these initiatives.
Energy and Climate Policy
Our Brussels office has broad expertise in EU energy and climate policy and closely follows developments in the EU's hydrogen initiatives, carbon capture and storage (CCS), infrastructure development, the emissions trading system, and the Renewable Energy Directive.
Additionally, our advisors focus on initiatives and directives concerning energy efficiency in buildings, as well as the development of innovative solutions and technologies that contribute to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and increased sustainability in the energy sector.
Green Maritime Sector
The EU has set ambitious goals to decarbonize the maritime sector as part of its green transition. With initiatives like the Fit for 55 package and investments in alternative fuels, zero-emission technology, and green shipping, the EU leads the way in transitioning towards a sustainable maritime industry.
Our advisors closely monitor developments within the maritime sector and provide Norwegian businesses with valuable insights into new regulations, funding opportunities, and market prospects.
Funding Opportunities for Startups/Scaleups in the EU
We assist companies with insights into various funding opportunities and ongoing support in application processes.
Within the EU's support mechanisms, there are many opportunities for Norwegian SMEs seeking access to capital, networks, and expertise. An example is the European Innovation Council Accelerator (EICA), a scheme for innovative startups and SMEs within deep tech, with international ambitions and growth potential. The scheme includes grants of up to €2.5 million and the possibility of equity of up to €10 million.
The Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) is another example of a funding program specifically targeting companies in the scaling phase.
Capital Market and Financing Ecosystem
Europe has many innovative companies, but those looking to grow often face challenges in accessing capital. Europe's VC sector is smaller compared to other regions, and European companies, especially in the growth phase, need better financing opportunities to strengthen their competitiveness. The Commission is working to mobilize more private capital for European companies and improve the framework conditions. Our office follows this development closely .
Tailored services
Our office in Brussels offers tailored advice on policies that both impact and create opportunities for Norwegian businesses. We help Norwegian businesses gain insights and guidance on opportunities, developments, and framework conditions in the EU. Our services include:
Political Analyses: Our advisors can assist Norwegian businesses in navigating the EU legislative landscape, with customized advice to follow policy developments and help you stay ahead of political shifts.
Funding Opportunities: We can provide thorough insights into funding opportunities in the EU, as well as ongoing support in partnerships and application processes.
Strategic Positioning: Through our presence in Brussels, we also act as a door opener for Norwegian businesses, helping them establish networks and gain access to the right contacts for increased influence.
