Woman in a skiing competition in front of a stand full of people.

Norway national
event unit

Innovation Norway supports event planners in creating exceptional, sustainable events across Norway. With expert guidance, trusted local partners, and a national strategy focused on innovation, we help you deliver memorable and impactful events.

Examples of major sports events in Norway

2020 European Men's Handball Championship, Trondheim

2020 World Allround Speed Skating Championships, Hamar

2020 Women's Bandy World Championships, Oslo

2021 World Powerlifting Championships, Stavanger

2021 European Curling Championships, Lillehammer

2021 World Wrestling Championships, Oslo

2021 European Underwater Rugby Championships, Stavanger

2021 Artistic Events and Formation Skydiving European Championships, Voss

2021 European Athletics U23 Championships, Bergen

2021 World Para Snow Sports Championships, Lillehammer

2022 Ski Flying World Championships, Vikersund

2022 Sailing European Championships, Hankø

2023 World Women's Handball Championship, Oslo / Trondheim

2025 World Men's Handball Championship, Trondheim / Stavanger / Drammen / Oslo

2025 Nordic World Ski Championships, Trondheim

About national event unit

Since 2012, the Norway Convention Bureau (NCB) has been a central resource for event planners, working to position Norway as a leading destination for meetings, incentives, congresses, and events. Originally established by Norway’s tourism industry, NCB collaborated closely with city-based destination companies to attract international events. In 2018, NCB was integrated into Innovation Norway, which continues to champion the country’s event sector.

What This Means for Event Planners

Expert Support and Free Services: Innovation Norway, through Visit Norway Meetings & Events, offers event planners free, impartial advice and connects you with vetted suppliers, venues, and destination management companies (DMCs) across Norway. Their team can assist with sustainable event ideas, site visits, and logistical support, ensuring your event meets both your needs and Norway’s high standards for sustainability and innovation.

National Events Strategy: In 2019, Innovation Norway launched the national events strategy, "Norway as a Sustainable and Innovative Host Country 2020–2030." This strategy was developed with input from the sports, culture, tourism, and public sectors, and it guides Norway’s approach to hosting world-class events with a focus on sustainability and destination development.

Knowledge Sharing and Networking: Each year, Innovation Norway organizes workshops, study trips, and meetings to enhance expertise among event organizers and destinations. They also represent Norway at international fairs and conferences, promoting the country as a future host for global organizations.

Strong Partnerships: Innovation Norway works closely with key national associations, such as The Norwegian Olympic and Paralympic Committee and Confederation of Sports (NIF) and major cities, ensuring a robust network to support your event. Membership in international organizations like the International Association of Event Hosts further strengthens Norway’s global event credentials.

National Event Tourism Unit to Be Closed Down
A marathon runner passing by a polar bear warning sign at Spitsbergen in Svalbard

How to get started

Venue and Destination Search: Whether you’re planning a small sport event or looking for an arena for your festival, Norway offers a wide range of venues and destinations. Innovation Norway can help you identify the perfect location, tailored to your event’s size and requirements.

Local Expertise: Norwegian cities provide on-the-ground support for planning, logistics, and unique local experiences, ensuring your event runs smoothly and leaves a lasting impression.

Sustainability Focus: Norway is committed to sustainable event practices, helping you minimize environmental impact while delivering memorable experiences for participants and ticket holders.

Contact Points for Event Planners

The Innovation Norway MICE team is available for direct consultation and can connect you with local experts and suppliers across the country.

“Innovation Norway provides free service for event planners, associations, and international sports and cultural organisations. We assist in generating sustainable ideas, provide impartial advice, introduce you to quality-approved suppliers, and organise site trips and workshops”