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Kristin Anderssen
Business Development Manager hos Oslo Business Region
Professional Background
Kristin Anderssen is a distinguished Business Development Adviser based in Oslo, where she plays a vital role in enhancing the growth and innovation within the city's vibrant business landscape. With extensive experience in both public and private sectors, Kristins's current position at Oslo Business Region allows her to spearhead initiatives aimed at creating seamless collaboration between these entities. Her deep-rooted expertise in business development has consistently involved breaking down barriers and fostering a cooperative environment, particularly for startup enterprises entering the market.
As a Senior Adviser for the City of Oslo’s Department of Business Development and Public Ownership, Kristin has been instrumental in formulating policies that promote economic growth and innovation. She served actively as a board member for Oslo Innovation Week (OIW), overseeing numerous initiatives and programming that brings together various stakeholders from the local and international business communities. Her innovative thinking and strategic approach towards business development have not only elevated Oslo's profile as an incubator of new ideas but also promoted partnerships that thrive across borders.
Education and Achievements
Kristin holds a Law Degree from the prestigious University of Oslo. Her academic background is complemented by specialized training through the Technology Transfer Office (TTO) class at the University of Texas at Austin, where she learned about the intersection of technology and business innovation. This blend of legal knowledge and business acumen has enhanced her capability to navigate public and private sectors effectively.
Throughout her career, Kristin has found ways to invigorate Oslo's economy through projects that engage startups, entrepreneurs, and international business communities. Her work has included orchestrating groundbreaking events, such as the International Reception during the Oslo Innovation Week 2019, where she welcomed over 250 distinguished guests to City Hall, fostering connections that would further drive Oslo's innovation agenda.
Kristin was notably involved in facilitating the first-ever Pakistan Tech Summit during the same event in 2019, which brought a wealth of entrepreneurial talent and technological innovation from Pakistan to Oslo. Her committed efforts exemplify her foresight in recognizing global trends and establishing Oslo as a globally recognized hub for talent and innovation.
Notable Projects
Kristin's portfolio of significant projects includes serving as the Project Manager for KOSC (www.kosc.no), where she nurtured collaboration between the startup community in Karachi, Pakistan, and Oslo. Under her guidance, four promising startups were awarded a month-long opportunity in the Startup Lab, an initiative that highlights her commitment to international exchange and startup development.
At Oslo Innovation Week in 2017, Kristin was key to orchestrating a major event known as #Oslo and friends, a three-day showcase displaying Oslo's innovative capabilities. This event highlighted contributions from various sectors and set a public forum for dialogue about future directions in business and technology.
In addition to these accomplishments, Kristin has led the City of Oslo's collaborations with other international cities through Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with Austin, Texas, and Hackney, London. These partnerships have resulted in mutual benefits and the sharing of best practices that drive innovation. Inspired by Austin and Hackney, Kristin played a pivotal role in creating Tøyen Startup Village and introducing food trucks to Oslo's streets, thereby enriching the city’s culinary and entrepreneurial landscape.
Community Engagement and Future Directions
Kristin's commitment to community engagement is reflected through her numerous roles in facilitating innovation and business development. She co-founded an Innovation Group that brings together various city departments and agencies, aiming to enhance communication and collaboration across public sectors. Through initiatives like MiA (Meetingplace for Innovative Procurements) and the Startup Accelerator Program, she has showcased her dedication to supporting startups in Oslo, enabling them to thrive in a competitive environment.
As Kristin continues her impactful journey at Oslo Business Region, her focus on startup ecosystems and international relations remains a priority. Her strategic insights and actions have positioned her as a valuable asset to the business community, and her influence will undoubtedly continue to shape Oslo’s entrepreneurial landscape for years to come.
Achievements