F/MS Top Startup Cities

5 min read

Stavanger, Norway #376

City Scores

City Total Score

0.62

Overall ranking score

Quality Score

0.08

Ecosystem quality rating

Quantity Score

0.06

Ecosystem size rating

Business Score

0.49

Business environment rating

Score Distribution

Score Comparison

MeanCEO Index Click to scroll to details

69

Startup Ecosystem in Stavanger 🌟

TL;DR

Stavanger ranks as the 376th city in the Global F/MS “Best Cities for Startups” Index. Known for its rich oil history and burgeoning tech scene, Stavanger offers unique opportunities for startups, particularly in renewable energy and digital technology.

Startup-Friendly Stuff 📈

1. Ease of Company Registration

  • Business Registration: Norway offers a straightforward online registration process called “Brønnøysund Register Centre” that makes startup incorporation seamless.
  • Startup Incentives: Local government policies favor tech-driven innovations, providing subsidies and support networks.

2. Employment Law 🏢

  • Labor Regulations: Fair and comprehensive laws protect employee rights, although they can add complexity for budding entrepreneurs.
  • Hiring Foreign Talent: Norway has a relatively easy process for obtaining work permits, facilitating the hiring of international talent.

3. Taxation 💰

  • Corporate Tax Rate: Standard corporate tax rate sits at 22%, with potential reductions for eligible startups.
  • VAT Regulations: VAT stands at 25%, with specific exemptions available for certain startup sectors.

4. Quality of Life 🌆

  • Living Standards: High quality of life characterized by excellent healthcare, education, and safety, though the cost of living can be notably high.
  • Culture and Leisure: Rich cultural heritage with numerous events, museums, and outdoor activities, perfect for work-life balance.

5. Bureaucracy 🗂️

  • Ease of Navigation: Government processes tend to be user-friendly, but specific permits can be time-consuming.
  • Government Support: Encompasses a variety of programs designed to nurture innovation and encourage entrepreneurship.

6. Visas for Entrepreneurs 🌍

  • Startup Visas & Permits: Norway offers favorable conditions for foreign entrepreneurs to start a business.
  • Residency Options: Various pathways available for long-term residence for qualifying business owners.

Startup Community 🤝

7. Networking Events

  • Frequent startup meetups, pitch competitions, and workshops aimed at fostering collaboration.
  • Vibrant community events that attract local and international investors.

8. Subsidies and Funding 💵

  • Strong governmental backing for tech-based startups, including grants and innovation subsidies.
  • Focus on sustainable tech funding plays well into Stavanger’s energy-centric ecosystem.

9. Venture Capital (VC) Presence

  • Investments: An emerging VC scene actively interested in renewable energy, software, and health technologies.
  • Major Firms: Increasing presence of both domestic and foreign venture capitalists in various sectors.

10. Incubators & Accelerators 🚀

  • A range of incubators dedicated to entrepreneurship in fields like renewable energy and digital tech.
  • Programs often provide valuable mentorship, office space, and access to funding opportunities.

Technology & Industry Priorities 🔧

  • Focus Areas: Clean energy, digital technology, maritime industries, and sustainability.
  • Government Initiatives: Efforts to transition to green technology and promote innovation in resource management.

Business Culture 🏙️

  • Language: Norwegian is the primary business language, but English is widely spoken, especially in the startup community.
  • Work Environment: Collaborative and open, with a strong focus on innovative thought and mutual respect.

General Pros and Cons ⚖️

Pros:

  • Strong governmental support and funding opportunities for startups.
  • High quality of life and safety encourages talent retention.
  • Rich natural resources and emerging tech industry are beneficial for growth.

Cons:

  • High cost of living may deter some entrepreneurs.
  • Competitive landscape may make it challenging for new entrants to gain visibility.

Initiatives for Female Entrepreneurs 👩‍💼

  • A growing focus on supporting female-led startups through workshops, funding opportunities, and networking events.
  • Collaborative efforts to boost representation and advocacy for women in entrepreneurship.

Stavanger presents an intriguing opportunity for startups, particularly those focused on sustainability and tech, while embracing a supportive and innovative environment. 🚀

MeanCEO Index for Stavanger 🌟

Stavanger, with its rich oil history and emerging tech scene, presents a solid opportunity for startups, especially in renewable energy and digital technology. But how does it rate for female entrepreneurs? Let’s analyze the MeanCEO Index score based on ten critical factors that influence the startup landscape.

1. Weather ☀️

  • Score: 5/10
    • Stavanger has a temperate climate with moderate rainfall and few sunny days. The winters can be chilly and damp, which can be less inviting for outdoor activities.

2. Location 🏖️

  • Score: 6/10
    • Situated by the North Sea, Stavanger offers beautiful coastal views and access to beaches, but the temperatures might not always be warm enough for comfortable swimming.

3. Women Friendly 👩‍💼

  • Score: 8/10
    • Norway is known for its progressive stance on gender equality, supporting women’s rights and initiatives. Stavanger reflects this culture, fostering a welcoming environment for female entrepreneurs.

4. Foreigners Friendly 🌍

  • Score: 7/10
    • Generally, Norwegians are open and friendly, and the multicultural aspect of Stavanger, especially within the startup community, creates a supportive network for foreign women.

5. English as a Business Language 📚

  • Score: 9/10
    • English is widely spoken in Stavanger, especially in business contexts. This makes communication accessible for international entrepreneurs, enhancing collaboration and networking.

6. Delicious Cuisine 🍷

  • Score: 6/10
    • Norwegian cuisine is hearty but can be limited in variety. While local seafood is excellent, onions are a common ingredient. There are also limited options for renowned local wines compared to other countries.

7. Ease of Getting Married and Starting a Family 💍

  • Score: 5/10
    • Stavanger has a vibrant dating scene, but the culture can be reserved, which may affect social interactions. There is potential for family life, but finding “marriage material” may depend on personal networks.

8. Medicine 🏥

  • Score: 8/10
    • Norway boasts an efficient healthcare system. Appointments are generally accessible, and quality is high. Although waiting times can vary, costs are manageable with health insurance.

9. Ease of Transportation & Traveling 🚍

  • Score: 7/10
    • Stavanger has decent public transportation options, though not as comprehensive as larger cities. While it does have an airport, international travel options might be somewhat limited compared to major hubs.

10. Startup Mindset 💡

  • Score: 8/10
    • The culture in Stavanger encourages innovation and supports entrepreneurial endeavors. There is a positive attitude toward learning from failure, which is essential for startup growth.

MeanCEO Index Score: 69/100 🎉

Stavanger offers a commendable environment for female entrepreneurs with strong support systems, a focus on gender equality, and a burgeoning startup community, particularly in renewable energy technology. While challenges such as weather and limited culinary diversity exist, the overall package presents a viable option for women looking to thrive in the entrepreneurial landscape.

Cheers to your startup journey in Stavanger! 🚀