Norges Vel wants to build a strong network for SMEs focusing on improved assurance of macroalgae quality from sea to consumer. The project ALGET 2 will contribute to a sustainable new industry based on wild harvested and cultivated seaweed for food, food ingredients and skin/ cosmetic products in the North Atlantic region. 

A Norwegian community seed bank has been established in order to conserve plant genetic material and ensure the survival of species diversity in Norwegian varieties. Old Norwegian varieties of plant material can have good characteristics and be resilient to certain illnesses. Norway is currently entirely dependent on overseas vegetable varieties, the rights to which often belong to multinational seed companies.

Nortura and Norges Vel collaborate with Uganda Meat Producer's Cooperative Union Ltd and the farmer-owned company Uganda Farmers Meat Company to develop the meat sector in Uganda. We look at the entire value chain from production to sale in order to offer quality meat to consumers at a price the farmers benefit from.

The tourism industry has a great potential for increased value creation, especially in district Norway. To succeed, it is important to develop attractive destinations that provide a comprehensive experience for the tourists. Norges Vel has prepared a report that provides an overview of such offers along the Fjord Pilgrim Route that are not found in the public destination companies.

Many farmers possess skills and agricultural equipment that can be of great value for the local communities in which they live. The Royal Norwegian Society for Development saw the potential in farmers grouping together to supply various services, and today rural services groups have an annual turnover in excess of 200 million kroner.

Rapeseed has long traditions in Norway, but not as a food oil. The Royal Norwegian Society for Development had the idea of developing a rapeseed oil suitable for food preparation and followed the process all the way through until Odelia was available on the shelves of the shops. Today, 270 000 litres per year are sold of this rapeseed oil.

On behalf of the Follo Advisory Board, the Royal Norwegian Society for Development has responsibility for the new business advice service in Norway’s Follo region.

The Royal Norwegian Society for Development has developed “Regional Matkultur” (Culinary Heritage) to become the region’s largest network for food producers, food-related companies, wholesalers, food outlets and farm or specialist shops, and this work has contributed to increased turnover for about 90 members.

We are intending to contribute to the establishment of a new Norwegian algae trade - from research and development to pilot projects, cultivation, marketing and sales. We are establishing meeting places and creating links between relevant bodies, organising pilot projects and arranging conferences.