StartupLab Launches New Accelerator

Oslo-based StartupLab launched on Thursday a new accelerator programme together with telecom operator Telenor, offering investment of 1.3 million Norwegian crowns (140,000 euros) and support from a team of seasoned entrepreneurs.

“We wish to find out how fast six startups can accelerate in three months when we provide financing from day one, with a daily push from the best mentors in Norway,” Rolf Assev, partner in StartupLab, said in a statement.

The programme, which is open for Norwegian tech entrepreneurs, starts in September and takes applications until June 19.

“All startups with strong products and services within areas like IoT, communication services/messaging, mobile technology, storage, security, financial services, health, gaming, education and entertainment can apply. We will choose the startups that are capable of moving quickly and that are close to a market launch,” Assev said.

Telenor will support the selected startups with mentors and help them towards their first customer. StartupLab and Founders Fund, together with Innovation Norway, will provide the financing.

“Entrepreneurs usually want two things from us: our competence and our distribution channels. This we will deliver on, and we wish to help the startups find their first customers,” said Gisle Pedersen, Head of Mobile Innovation in Telenor Norway.

How far would you get2