Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: The ReStart Program in Norway

Starting a business is a challenging journey, filled with uncertainty and unexpected obstacles. Now imagine doing it in a new country, without knowing the language, culture, or having a strong support network. That’s the reality for a group of courageous Ukrainian women who have taken their first steps toward entrepreneurship in Møre og Romsdal, Norway.

Through the ReStart program, an initiative of the BSI_4Women Entrepreneurial Gateway pilot project, these women are receiving the tools, knowledge, and mentorship needed to transform their ideas into thriving businesses. This inspiring program is led by ProtoMore Kunnskapspark AS in partnership with Møre og Romsdal County Municipality, Vindel AS, and Siva SF.

The participants of ReStart are Ukrainian women who have relocated to Norway, leaving behind their homes, careers, and communities. Many of them bring advanced education, professional expertise, and fresh perspectives. Now residing in small Norwegian communities, they are working to build something new and meaningful.

The ReStart Journey

The program launched with its first session on October 31, 2024, focusing on understanding customer needs and developing business ideas. Participants explored how to align their concepts with market demands and learned valuable tools for identifying their target audience.

On November 28, 2024, the second session took participants deeper into the process of business development. Topics included transitioning from an idea to execution, creating business models, building teams, managing resources, and crafting marketing and financial strategies.

Three more sessions are planned to round out the program:

• December 12, 2024: Effective communication and pitching skills.
• January 16, 2025: Financial planning and resource management.
• February 6, 2025: Preparing company presentations for investors and stakeholders.

Each session is designed to address the unique challenges faced by these women as they navigate the entrepreneurial landscape in a new country.

Looking Ahead

The ReStart program highlights the resilience and creativity of its participants, who are turning challenges into opportunities. Their entrepreneurial journeys are a testament to their determination and courage.

As the program unfolds, it will be exciting to see how their ideas develop and take shape. The collaboration between ProtoMore Kunnskapspark AS, Møre og Romsdal fylkeskommune, Vindel AS, and Siva SF ensures these women have the support they need to succeed.

Stay tuned for updates and stories from this inspiring initiative!

Programme Manual Online

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