Advisor Andrey Kazakov and researcher Elena Sæther presenting the trophy from the Arctic Next Innovation Challenge. The student competition was held for the first time this fall and will continue under the ArcticNext project.
The project is called ArcticNext. It has recently received NOK 1.2 million in funding from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with a total budget of NOK 2.6 million.
– We have several projects focusing on how to motivate young people to come here, work here, and live here. ArcticNext is a natural continuation of that work, says Elena Sæther, researcher at the High North Center.
The project involves collaboration with North American and other Arctic universities. The main partner is Memorial University in Canada.
– We are building on networks we have already established and engaging partners from across the Arctic, explains Andrey Kazakov, advisor at the High North Center.
Many participants
Sæther believes the key goal is for young people to gain a better understanding of the High North, see opportunities in the region, and contribute to innovative solutions for sustainable development in the Arctic.
– It’s about showing the opportunities that actually exist here, both to those already living here and to those considering moving north, she says.
The project aims to strengthen networks among young people, highlight available jobs and educational paths, and create space for entrepreneurship.
– There will be many participants involved in the project - over 100 people, which is very exciting.
Important work
The main part of the budget will fund activities where young people can take part, including travel and accommodation costs to ensure broad participation.
Both Kazakov and Sæther emphasize that much needs to be in place for more people to choose to stay in the North.
– Many things have to be aligned at different levels. But this is our contribution, to show that the North is a vibrant and attractive place for young people.
FACTS
Full name: ArcticNext: encouraging young people to live, work, and innovate in the Arctic.
Main activities:
- High North Dialogue Academy: A week-long program aimed at young adults aged 18–40. Participants take part in lectures, company visits, and social activities in Bodø. They also attend the High North Dialogue conference.
- Sustainable Blue Economy in the Arctic: A course under the Nord University Summer School offering students insights into how the blue economy balances growth and environmental responsibility.
- ArcticNext Student Innovation Challenge: An innovation competition where students from Nord University and Memorial University develop business ideas for Arctic communities. Participants receive mentoring and have the chance to win prize money.
FACTS
Full name: ArcticNext: encouraging young people to live, work, and innovate in the Arctic.
Main activities:
- High North Dialogue Academy: A week-long program aimed at young adults aged 18–40. Participants take part in lectures, company visits, and social activities in Bodø. They also attend the High North Dialogue conference.
- Sustainable Blue Economy in the Arctic: A course under the Nord University Summer School offering students insights into how the blue economy balances growth and environmental responsibility.
- ArcticNext Student Innovation Challenge: An innovation competition where students from Nord University and Memorial University develop business ideas for Arctic communities. Participants receive mentoring and have the chance to win prize money.
