How do you succeed with your business and investing in Greece? That was the key question for the Norwegian delegation traveling to Athens in the SUCCEED Project, financed though the EEA Grants 2014-2021, in the frame of Business Innovation Greece, managed by Innovation Norway

Oslo Chamber of Commerce is a partner with ΕΒΕΑ – ACCI | Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry in a Norway Grant project aiming to increase collaboration and value creation between Norway and Greece. During our trade mission OCC also had a partnership with the Norwegian Embassy in Athens.

Project leader for the Trade Mission to Athens, Christopher Vonheim had this to say about the visit
– What made this trade mission a success was the great collaboration between OCC, The Norwegian Embassy, and Athens Chamber of Commerce. Together we made an exciting program that put light on Greek business opportunities and local culture. We also had with us exceptional and ambitious people in our delegation, who I beliveve will tap into the Greek market in the future.

Here is a summary from Christian Grotnes Halvorsen, Deptuy Head of Mission in Athens from the Norwegian Embassy.

How big is the potential for more trade between Greece and Norway?
– It is not possible to quantify the potential. But it is certainly present. Norwegian companies have expertise and technology in sectors where large investments are planned in Greece in the coming years – particularly in maritime industries and renewable energy. The challenge, however, is that knowledge of and familiarity with what we have to offer is limited.

Norway is not the first country companies think of when buying goods and services or entering into collaborations. We need to build a foundation and attention. Only then can we begin to realize the potential. This will take time, but we are on our way.

What do you think went well with this Trade Mission and the collaboration with the OCC?
This is a great example of how everyone can work together to promote Norwegian exports and business abroad. The embassy has local knowledge and networks, and OCC is close to Norwegian companies and national ecosystems. Participating companies gained both knowledge and local business culture in combination with meetings with potential future partners. It was a good mix and and a varied programme. The feedback that has come so far is very positive.

Thank you to everyone who said yes to participate, and for the excellent speakers who shared their valuable lessons.

Companies who participated: Fred. Olsen 1848, Esgian, Youngship, Shipshave, Skyfri, Remora Robotics, ESG-NRG and Arntzen de Besche.

Learn more about our trip to Athens here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IlUGh13xgDM