Research - Norway

Updated 10/2012

Legal requirements

Norway encourages businesses to invest in research and innovation because these promote growth and create jobs.

Research is crucial if Norway is to be a knowledge-based and innovative society. Its culture, economy and prosperity are dependent on the development and use of research.

A key player in the research field is the Research Council for Norway which provides advice and funding fro Norwegian research work. Norway is a member of the EU 7th Framework Programme for research and technological development.

Research Council of Norway
EU 7th Framework Programme

Relevant Acts related to research work include:

Research Ethics Act
Tax Act
Patents Act

Research and development institutions

The Research Council for Norway is the authority in Norway that provides advice on research policy, funds research projects and creates forums. The Research Council finances networking and skills development between businesses, knowledge organisations and the public sector, with the aim of increased innovation.

Research Council of Norway
Overview of Norwegian research institutions

The Norwegian Association of Higher Education Institutions (UHR) is a coordinating body for institutions covered by the Higher Education Act. The Council has its own research committee which acts as an advisory and coordinating body for the Norwegian Association of Higher Education Institutions in matters concerning research policy and training.

Norwegian Association of Higher Education Institutions
Higher Education Act

Alongside R&D, innovation is essential for businesses to develop and stay competitive.

New ideas — Norway

Intellectual property must be protected to encourage research.

Intellectual property — Norway

Administrative procedures

Obtaining permits

There are no general permits required to register as a research institution. However, there may be a requirement to register within some fields of research. Contact the relevant authorities for information on any requirements there may be.

Regelhjelp.no

Submitting a bid

Public research contracts above the threshold value are advertised according to the rules on public procurement.

Resources

Research and Knowledge Parks in Norway is a national network for the development of good business ideas and unique research-based findings for a sustainable economy.

Overview of research parks

Forinn is a knowledge policy portal providing information on the knowledge base for research and innovation policy.

Forinn
Overview of different institutions that conduct research into innovation
Norwegian research institutions

Programmes

The Research Council for Norway is a key player within technological innovation. Businesses and institutions can apply for grants for research and development projects.

Research Council of Norway
Research Council of Norway - Overview of research programmes

Check also the legislation on this topic in:

Research - Norway