Official Opening of the Norwegian-Ukrainian Business Hub in Kyiv

Kyiv, April 8, 2025 – A significant milestone in Norwegian-Ukrainian business cooperation was marked yesterday with the official opening of the Norwegian-Ukrainian Business Hub in central Kyiv. The event sent a strong signal of Norway’s continued presence and commitment to supporting Ukraine’s recovery and long-term economic development.

Established under the Team Norway initiative and led by the Norwegian-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce (NUCC) in cooperation with Innovation Norway, the Business Hub is designed to serve as a practical platform for companies from both countries. It will help build partnerships, provide guidance in navigating the Ukrainian market, and foster value-driven economic collaboration.

A Platform for Practical Support

The Hub will function as a central meeting point for businesses, offering:

• In-depth market insights and strategic guidance
• Access to local networks and connections
• Tailored support for doing business in and with Ukraine

By linking Norway’s expertise in innovation and sustainability with Ukraine’s dynamic reconstruction efforts, the Hub aims to accelerate bilateral trade, investment, and long-term value creation.

Grand Opening with High-Level Participation

We were truly honoured to witness such a strong and high-level turnout at the Grand Opening in Kyiv. The event was formally opened by Ketil Bøe, NUCC Chair of the Board and Partner at Wikborg Rein, who has been a strong driving force behind NUCC’s efforts in Ukraine.

The event featured welcoming remarks from Cecilie Myrseth, Norwegian Minister of Trade and Industry, Herman Halushchenko, Ukrainian Minister of Energy, as well as Andrii Teliupa, Deputy Minister of Economy of Ukraine

Our close partners Innovation Norway also used the occasion to formally announce the establishment of their new office in Kyiv. NUCC presented the Norwegian Financial Toolbox, outlining key business support programs available from Norad, Norfund, and Export Finance Norway – providing crucial tools for businesses seeking to invest in or with Ukraine.

Dynamic Panel and Business Dialogue

A dynamic panel discussion followed, with insights shared by representatives from Bergen Engines, Astarta, the Confederation of Norwegian Enterprises (NHO), the Ukrainian Business Ombudsman, and NUCC. The conversation focused on practical business cases, capacity building, capital attraction, and unlocking the potential for expanded bilateral cooperation.

In Tandem with a New EFTA Agreement

The opening of the Hub coincided with the signing of an expanded EFTA Free Trade Agreement between Norway and Ukraine – a landmark development that enhances trade frameworks, improves market access, and deepens both political and economic ties.
🔗 Read more about the EFTA agreement

A Strong Foundation for Future Collaboration

The development of deeper cooperation with Norway is a key and promising direction for Ukrainian manufacturers. The strong interest demonstrated during the event underlines the immense potential for impactful partnerships and long-term projects.

The significance of the event was also acknowledged at the highest political level – with a dedicated feature article published by the Norwegian Government.

The opening of the Norwegian-Ukrainian Business Hub marks not just the beginning of a new chapter, but a concrete step toward meaningful, sustainable economic growth between our two nations.

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