Now We Will Promote Agder as an Attractive Working Region

The entire Agder business community is joining forces with the public sector to establish long-term efforts to increase the region’s attractiveness.

The regional collaboration project Growth in the South will help to strengthen Agder’s reputation, with the aim of promoting the region as a place to live and work.

– Agder aims to take a leading position in the green transition, and we are well-equipped to win the competition for the best talent. We are prepared to welcome new residents and workers and can offer a good quality of life in a region favorable for establishment.

– But we know that companies have unmet competence needs, and therefore it is absolutely necessary to roll up our sleeves to highlight the opportunities that exist here, says Trond Backer, CEO of the Business Association in the Kristiansand region.

Broad Collaboration

Business Region Kristiansand and the Business Alliance in Agder are leading the project, with contributions from UiA, GCE NODE, Lister Nyskaping, Eyde-klyngen, Agder County Council, Arendal Municipality and Grimstad Municipality.

– Having so many involved strengthens the chances of success. It is absolutely essential that we pull in the same direction. The long-term positioning work to increase Agder’s attractiveness requires strong cooperation and cross-regional coordination, says Susanne Lende, business advisor at Business Region Kristiansand.

According to NHO’s Skills Barometer, over 90 Percent of Agder Businesses Have an Unmet Need for Skilled Labor. 60 Percent Have Attempted to Recruit in the past Year without Securing the Desired Expertise.

– Therefore, we must improve at highlighting that Agder is a region favorable for establishment. Here there is growth and optimism, especially within the energy sector. Norway’s offshore wind venture is becoming a reality, and this also has great significance for the supplier industry we have in our region, says Backer.

A Long-Term Effort

The preliminary project ‘Growth in the South’ recently received a grant of 375,000 kroner from Agder County Municipality. A potential main project would entail a much larger joint effort and span a period of 3-5 years. The application text particularly emphasizes that Southern Norway and Agder are investing to position themselves in the green transition, and that this requires an increased influx of skilled labor.

– Newcomers often bring their families, and therefore it is important to highlight all residential and employment opportunities in the region, regardless of industry. This includes the natural amenities, urban qualities, and cultural and experiential offerings.

Written by: Håkon A. Repstad (Business Association in the Kristiansand region)

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Published: 04.04.24