Arctic policy
The Arctic and northern regions receive increasing attention in the EU, particularly within research, sustainable development, security and geopolitics. The North Norway European Office monitors the development of the EU’s Arctic policy and promotes northern Norwegian interests in European processes. Through the Northern Sparsely Populated Areas (NSPA) network, we work closely with regions in northern Sweden and northeast Finland to strengthen shared priorities and develop new cooperation opportunities in the north.

Regional Development and the EU’s Territorial Agenda
Regional development is an important part of the EU’s territorial agenda, aiming to build stronger regions and enhance cross‑border cooperation. EU programmes and regional policy offer funding and partnerships that support societal development, innovation, and business growth in the north. For Northern Norway, this means access to European networks, expertise, and projects that contribute to sustainable development and attractive local communities.

Business Development, Research and Innovation
Our work focuses on EU policies and programmes where innovation, green transition and technological development drive regional value chains and business growth in the north. We provide ongoing information to our owners, partners and stakeholders about activities and opportunities linked to programmes such as Horizon Europe, Digital Europe, and the EEA and Norway Grants.

Skills and Competence Development
Skills development is increasingly important for the EU’s competitiveness and for people’s ability to adapt to new labour‑market demands. We provide information about EU initiatives and programmes for mobility, skills and educational cooperation, with particular emphasis on the Erasmus+ programme.

State Aid and Competition Rules
We follow developments in EU state aid and competition rules and their implications for actors in Northern Norway. The North Norway European Office shares knowledge and updates, helping public and private stakeholders better understand the opportunities and room for manoeuvre within the regulatory framework.

Marine, Maritime and Ocean‑based Industries
We monitor EU policies affecting marine, maritime and ocean‑based industries, including fisheries, aquaculture, the maritime sector, and the wider ocean economy. We provide information on regulations, technological developments, innovation, and market access relevant to northern stakeholders.

Space and Space‑based Infrastructure
We follow developments in EU space programmes and space‑based infrastructure, which are essential for monitoring, preparedness and communication in the north. The North Norway European Office shares insights into opportunities related to space data and satellite‑based services, and highlights the strategic role of the High North in Europe’s space cooperation.

Civil Protection and Emergency Preparedness
We monitor the EU’s work on civil protection and emergency preparedness, including crisis management, resilience and security of supply. We provide knowledge on European initiatives and cooperation opportunities relevant for northern regions, and help bring northern perspectives into European discussions on strengthened preparedness.

Security and Defence
We follow the development of EU initiatives in security and defence, and their implications for Northern Norway and the Arctic. This includes military mobility, dual‑use infrastructure, space activities and energy security. The North Norway European Office works to highlight the strategic importance of the High North in European cooperation and policymaking.

Transport and Infrastructure
Transport and infrastructure in Northern Norway are directly influenced by EU transport policies and priorities, particularly through the TEN‑T network and mobility and logistics regulations. We follow programmes, regulations and investments affecting transport corridors, ports and northern Europe’s connectivity. Our aim is to support robust and climate‑friendly transport solutions and strengthen the region’s links with European networks.

Energy
EU energy policy is evolving rapidly in response to ambitious climate targets and the phase‑out of Russian energy imports. The overarching goals include energy security, increased renewable energy production, affordable energy and a more efficient energy market. EU energy policy is largely relevant for Norway through the EEA Agreement and our interconnections with the EU energy market. We monitor initiatives of particular importance for Northern Norway.

Industry and Business Sector
Industry and businesses in Northern Norway are increasingly affected by EU policies on green transition, industrial competitiveness and strategic value chains. We follow developments in relevant EU initiatives such as the Net‑Zero Industry Act, the Critical Raw Materials Act, energy and climate policy, and innovation programmes that can strengthen regional value chains. The North Norway European Office provides information on regulations, funding schemes and partnerships that offer opportunities for the region.