Organized by the High North Center at Nord University, the conference will take place in Bodø on March 26–27, 2025, with an informal pubinar the evening before.
This year’s theme is "Business in the Arctic: New Realities."
Changes in the security landscape, growing global interest, and new technological opportunities make discussions about Arctic development more important than ever.
The conference will address key topics such as:
- Security policy and Nordic cooperation – how geopolitical shifts impact business and society
- The space industry in the North – opportunities for growth and collaboration in a new strategic sector
- The green transition – sustainable solutions and emerging industries in the Arctic
- The blue shift – ocean-based opportunities in energy, fisheries, and tourism
Among this year’s confirmed speakers are Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Professor Michael Byers from the University of British Columbia, and Anu Fredrikson, Director of Arctic Frontiers—along with several ambassadors to Norway.
The conference also includes:
- The Ambassador Panel, where diplomats discuss international cooperation in the North
- The High North Hero Award, recognizing a person or organization with a significant impact on the Arctic
- High North Young Entrepreneur, a pitch competition for young entrepreneurs with a prize of NOK 50,000
- 16 side events in collaboration with partners such as Bodø Municipality, Bodø Region Development Company, Arctic Frontiers, and Nord University
Pubinar | March 25 – An informal pre-conference event
Ahead of the conference, the public is invited to an informal discussion at Bådin Brewery on the geopolitical realities in the North. The event is free, open to all, and starts at 18:00. See the Facebook event here.
Moderator: Dr. Andreas Østhagen, Fridtjof Nansen Institute / High North Center, Nord University.
