The UArctic Entrepreneurship Fund is an initiative that complements other existing prize funds with a seed-fund program, providing training and mentorship, and encouraging innovation and solutions on a local level. The program is managed and run by the UArctic Thematic Network on Managing Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in the North, with UiT The Arctic University of Norway as the host.
Whether you’re developing a product that supports clean energy, a service that improves health care access in remote communities, or a new technology that supports cultural preservation—if your idea has the potential to make a positive, demonstrable impact in the Arctic, we want to hear from you.
What is the UArctic Entrepreneurship Fund?
The UArctic Entrepreneurship Fund is designed to support entrepreneurs at the incubator stage—individuals or small teams with promising ideas, products, or services that need initial support to grow. Unlike many larger funding programs, the UArctic Entrepreneurship Fund offers seed grants between $2,000 and $5,000 USD, along with mentorship, capacity-building, and connection to a global network of Arctic-focused experts and institutions.
What sets this fund apart is its community orientation. The goal isn’t just to develop businesses, but to enhance local resilience, sustainability, and self-determination across the North.
Who Can Apply?
The call is open to any individual, regardless of institutional affiliation, who is developing an incubator-stage product or service that directly benefits the Arctic environment or Arctic communities. We strongly encourage applications from Indigenous entrepreneurs, youth, women, and Northern-based innovators whose work reflects the lived experiences and priorities of the Arctic.
Your idea doesn’t need to be “high tech”—it just needs to be rooted in community values, have a clear benefit for the North, and demonstrate potential for long-term impact.
What Support is Provided?
Awardees will receive:
- A grant of $2,000 to $5,000 USD (exceptions possible based on project scope)
- Mentorship and training through UArctic’s Thematic Network on Managing Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in the North
- Access to a network of researchers, institutions, and Arctic innovators
- Ongoing opportunities to share your work through UArctic events, publications, and international channels
Deadline to Apply: October 31, 2025
All application materials, eligibility information, and submission guidelines are available on our website:
www.uarctic.org/entrepreneurship
Questions? We’re happy to help. Contact us at:
entrepreneurship@uarctic.org
Help Us Spread the Word
Your support in amplifying this opportunity is vital. You can:
- Share the link www.uarctic.org/entrepreneurship in your communications
- Download promotional materials: A4 flyer, social media design
- Reach out to Indigenous and Northern entrepreneurs who could benefit from this opportunity
Together, we can support innovation in the Arctic that is grounded in community, guided by sustainability, and driven by Northern leadership.