Oppstartsenheten

Oppstartsenheten, also known as the Startup Unit, is a Norwegian government initiative aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within the public sector. Established in 2014, the unit operates under the Ministry of Local Government and Modernization and is tasked with identifying and developing innovative solutions to improve public services and processes. The Startup Unit works closely with various government agencies and departments to understand their challenges and opportunities, and then collaborates with external partners, including startups, to co-create and implement new solutions.

The unit's approach is based on the principles of agile development, user-centered design, and open innovation. It encourages a culture of experimentation and continuous learning, where public sector employees are empowered to take initiative and drive change. The Startup Unit has been involved in a wide range of projects, from developing digital platforms for public services to creating new business models for waste management and public transportation.

One of the key strengths of the Oppstartsenheten is its ability to bridge the gap between the public and private sectors. By collaborating with startups and other innovative organizations, the unit can leverage external expertise and resources to tackle complex public sector challenges. This approach has led to the development of several successful solutions, such as the digital platform "Ditt Nav" for managing public services, and the waste management app "Miljodirektoratet."

The Startup Unit's work has been recognized both nationally and internationally, with numerous awards and accolades for its innovative approach and impactful projects. The unit continues to play a crucial role in driving innovation and transformation within the Norwegian public sector, helping to create more efficient, effective, and citizen-centric services.