Norwegian Innovation Clusters (NIC)

Norwegian Innovation Clusters is a state-funded cluster programme jointly operated by Innovation Norway, Siva, and the Research Council of Norway under mandate from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries. It supports cluster organisations rather than individual firms, with funding tied to cluster maturity and long-term collaboration. The programme is structured to strengthen shared industrial capacity, not to back one-off company projects. The programme has three tiers: NIC Connect at NOK 3 million per year for three years, NIC Explore at NOK 4 million per year for three years, and NIC Impact at NOK 5 million per year for three years. Cluster organisations need at least 10 business members for Connect and 20 for Explore and Impact, and total programme duration can reach 10 years. Annual admission calls keep the scheme on a predictable calendar, with the current round closing in June 2026. That structure rewards clusters that can show a real membership base, a common agenda, and the capacity to manage operating support over time. Funding is framed as cluster operating support and SME innovation support under GBER rules, with annual admission calls and an application deadline published for 2026. The best candidates are organisations that can demonstrate reach across member companies and a durable operating model.

Each grant below is a distinct funding opportunity with its own eligibility, scope, and deliverables.