Sharespine becomes a member of Nordic Innovation House, San Francisco
Robin Lundberg
17 november 2021
English version
Sharespine has become a member of the Nordic Innovation House in San Francisco upon its establishment in the US. The membership gives us access to a strong community and many practical benefits on site in the US. We asked Paula Salomaa, Community Director at Nordic Innovation House, about what they can help us with in the US and what the benefits of being a member are.
Nordic Innovation House was established 2014 by 5 Nordic countries – Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, and Iceland – to offer a soft landing space for Nordic technology companies when they start their journey in Silicon Valley. We wanted to offer a home away from home, a co-working space, and supporting community, and networking events that helped them to learn and connect with the surrounding innovation ecosystem. That helps the companies hit the ground running when they arrive in the Valley
When Swedish companies start their journey in USA, they need a legal address, a space to work and have meetings, connections to services and resources, and a sharing and caring community. We can offer all that! Also, our extensive network helps companies to find the right connections – Silicon Valley style warm introductions.
What types of businesses are members of Nordic Innovation House?
We have now 140 members, 50 of them are from Sweden. The majority of our members are technology start-ups from all different technology fields, but also by corporations who want to tap into the world’s leading innovation hub, Silicon Valley. Nordic venture capitalists want to be also a part of Nordic Silicon Valley investor and technology community, and offer a landing spot in Silicon Valley also for their portfolio companies.
Do your homework before entering the markets: talk with other companies who have done the same journey, understand the competitive field, opportunities and risks. The USA is an enormous market, companies need to choose their focus and commit to the long term plan. It always demands a serious investment of time and resources, commitment from your C-level. And of course – contact Nordic Innovation House!
Sweden is a well-known start-up hotspot with several unicorns, it’s known to be home for innovative design and high-tech companies, also a forerunner in the areas of sustainability and diversity and inclusivity – all very hot topics in Silicon Valley!
In addition of the services our memberships offer, Swedish companies can tapin to our extensive network. Btw we have also great connections with Swedish Silicon Valley executives, who are always willing to help their fellow countrymen.
Our events are open for all – you find webinars sharing advice and learnings, and giving inspiration and new ideas. We hope to start soon again our in-person events in our home base at Palo Alto, our legendary 470 Ramona Street address.
Please also check our start-up accelerator program TINC, which has supported over 200 companies over the past 10 years, and REACH research commercialization incubator. Sign up for our newsletter to get always the latest information!
How would you describe the collaborative spirit among companies in San Francisco?
Silicon Valley and the wider SF Bay area are very inspirational for tech companies – it’s a magnet for global talent, cutting-edge technologies, and investments. Nothing is too crazy here – tech geeks always willing to test and develop ideas. Competition is also harder than anywhere, it’s the Olympics game of start-ups. You need to come and feel it – the Silicon Valley mindset is hard to explain but very inspiring to experience!