NORA.startup is NORAs innovation platform and is a community of 40+ AI startups and 50+ students and researchers in the field of AI. As a national network for AI innovation, one important aim for NORA.startup is to connect AI startups, researchers and students in Norway. Hosting matchmaking events with NORA partners is a crucial driver of student engagement. AI startups work within highly complex fields, which might demand a researcher's expertise. Many AI startups are looking for researchers that can help them solve complex problems either through project based work, publicly funded projects. Creating platforms where students and researchers can engage more actively with the AI startup landscape in Norway is important as it strengthens collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Ann Elinor Jamtvoll Aasen from BI Startup and Harrshinny Vallipuram from Startuplab
For students, the event presented a unique opportunity where they could translate knowledge gained during their education into practical experience. We invited startups to present their companies and opportunities for project based tasks that students can work on and build their portfolios - in addition to gaining valuable hands-on experience. Startups presenting at the event were Catchwise, Factiverse, Nexro, In-Virtualis, Tavana, Vitae Evidence, Soundsensing, Völur, Clinsj, Chew, Healthsum, Campion and NeoRL.net.
Not only were the students introduced to the latest AI projects and cutting-edge technologies shaping the field of AI in Norway, but also given the opportunity to network with peers and expand their professional circle.
Anastasiia Korsak and Rebecca Wiborg Seyfarth from Volur
Startups, in turn, benefitted from the fresh perspectives and energy that students inject into their teams. By contributing their knowledge, students become instrumental in solving complex problems and driving the development of new products and services.
To add value - by working with startups, students are given a crash course in entrepreneurship, innovation, and a taste of the startup culture - critical experiences that enhance their marketability in the eyes of future employers. SEFIO - the Student’s Entrepreneurship Fund in Oslo - was also present at the event, introducing opportunities for funding and support for students with ideas and startup ambitions.
Mehmet Naci Akkøk from In-Virtualis and Gaute Kokkvoll from Factiverse
We are grateful to Startuplab for hosting this event, and to all of our partners for sharing the event with their eager students and researchers!
For more information about NORA.startup, membership and our activities, please contact birte.hansen@nora.ai.