The Agder European Office Association is being established by the University of Agder, Agder County Council, and the municipalities of Kristiansand, Arendal and Grimstad.
"As part of a long-term strategy, UiA is participating to enhance our chances of receiving major EU funding, and position Agder as a preferred research and innovation partner," says Ann Camilla Krogh, Director of Research and Innovation at UiA and head of the interim board.
"The Agder European Office aims to contribute to value creation by increasing the success rate in EU projects and other European funding schemes. The office will also work towards helping Agder's businesses develop competitive products and services that promote the green shift, increase employment and improve living standards," says County Mayor Arne Thomassen.
A managing director and two employees will soon be setting up in Brussels.
"They will work closely with international advisers in the municipalities, at the university, and within the major business clusters. Together, they will establish a platform to increase Agder’s visibility in Europe," says Krogh.
The founders are contributing a total of five million Norwegian kroner in 2024, with the county municipality being the largest contributor. Sørlandet Knowledge Foundation and Aust-Agder Development and Competence Fund will also contribute funding towards the development of the office in the coming years.
While the municipalities, county and UiA are initiating the project, they hope that more stakeholders will join in the European effort. They welcome the participation of the public sector, as well as larger research and development environments in the private sector, says Krogh.