Cultural and creative industries
The cornerstones of the project, which come from the Ministry of Culture and Equality, are the export programme, the investor programme and the mentor programme. The goals are to increase investments by Norwegian companies and investors in cultural and creative products, services, rights, and talent, as well as to develop more companies with growth potential that sell cultural and creative content nationally and internationally.
‘Ut i Verden’ – a bespoke export programme for the creative industries
The ‘Ut i Verden’ or ‘Going Abroad’ export programme is designed to boost the development of Norwegian cultural industries, improve international competitiveness, and contribute to higher export income. The companies that qualify for the programme get access to capital and expertise tailored specifically to their needs. The companies work on their own business development during the entire programme, which lasts around two years. In addition to a number of professional gatherings and trips, open seminars and conferences are also arranged.
In the period 2017-2022, 38 companies took part in the export programme. Several of the companies report an increase in total employees and higher operating income during the programme period. Several are also changing their strategic direction based on the supply of expertise and access to capital.
Fundraising for Start-ups – an investor programme for creative industries
The investor programme consists of three tracks, the training programme Fundraising for Creative Start-ups, the Creative Industries Roundtable for investors and companies, and the Scale up Studio for companies with extra-large scaling potential. The aim of the programme is to increase companies’ expertise in both raising capital and strategies for growth, as well as to contribute to increased knowledge about creative industries as attractive investments.
In 2022, 13 companies from five different industries and regions qualified for the programme. The total number of investors involved rose from five in 2019 and 2020 to 12 in 2021 and remained relatively stable at ten investors in 2022. There was a 50/50 split between male and female investors. Having a training programme for companies in combination with measures aimed directly at investors and arenas where they can meet, is where we see the greatest overall impact.
Strategic mentor – for stronger international competitiveness
The creative industries are a growing financial sector, boosted by digitalisation and greater demand for services. However, these are unstable times, and many companies require sparring in relation to how they best can survive during and after a phase of reduced income due to a period of crisis. For some companies, access to advice, guidance, and expertise can be just as important as capital when it comes to returning to a normal situation.
The mentor programme for the creative industries is designed to help companies with international ambitions and growth potential with strategic advice and follow-up. The goal is to accelerate the transition and/or growth process to increase the chances of success. The measure is specifically mentioned in the Export Action Plan and is designed to focus on transition and exports. The service will be launched in 2023.