April 25, 2006

Norway launches innovation programme for seafood industry
 

Norway launched a Marine Innovation Programme with 40 million NOK (US$6.3 million) for its seafood industry last week. 

The marine innovation programme aims to increase competence levels, ensure higher standards and increased profitability for the industry. Innovation Norway, the state owned company in charge of the programme, is hoping to produce several innovative network projects.

Innovation Norway's district offices will help establish a network of companies in the seafood industry with a focus on the international market.

A competence programme would be made available to management to be trained in areas such as marketing strategies, building alliances, and brand name building.

Companies who have completed the competence program can then collaborate with the Norwegian Seafood Marketing Council and Innovation Norway in prioritised markets.

Innovation Norway is an amalgamation of four organisations: The Norwegian Tourist Board, The Norwegian Trade Council, The Norwegian Industrial and Regional Development Fund and The Government Consultative Office for Inventors.

The company promotes nationwide industrial development profitable to Norway's national economy.