Jonas Selim/Forsvaret
Jonas Selim/Forsvaret
LINC 2026-27 Cohort
Software platform for data-driven artificial intelligence, developed for use in physical AI systems such as computer vision, sensors, robotics and edge applications.
Autonomous, electric drones and associated software for autonomous route planning, ISR, collision rendering and remote monitoring.
Griff Aviation:
Heavy-lift unmanned aerial systems trusted to perform in the world’s most demanding environments.
Cloud-native VANTAGE digital wargaming and decision-support platform for NATO and allied militaries.
Advanced unmanned surface and sub-surface foiling vessels.
Light weight, smart and fast deployable underwater drones with semi-autonomous and autonomous characteristics
Acoustic gunshot detection, localization, and analysis for both defense and civilian markets.
Disruptive sensor technology, allowing divers and underwater vehicles to explore and communicate underwater more confidently.
About the LINC program:
LINC is a program developed to help Norwegian companies enter the US and allied defense market. The program offers participants:
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Access to American and Norwegian service providers
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Insight into the American defense industry, regulations, and innovation methodology
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Support for prototype development, demonstrations, and meetings with operational users
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Connections to investors, industry partners, and military decision-makers
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The program normally lasts around nine months from September to May, and includes activities in Norway and program weeks in the US
Who should apply?
LINC targets Norwegian companies that:
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Develop technology, products, or services relevant to defense, security, or dual-use sectors
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Seek strategic growth in the U.S. or allied defense market
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Are in the early, growth, or mature phase
LINC program offering:
Participating companies receive:
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Market and innovation consulting, guidance on American business culture, mentoring, pitch support, and investor introductions
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Legal and regulatory expertise, advice on IP protection, and insight into US procurement processes and military requirements
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Operational and technical development through introduction to end users.
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Market access and networking, participation in relevant trade fairs through Team Norway, and introductions to US and Norwegian industry partners
Program Timeline:
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Kick-off in Oslo: August/September
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USA Program | AUSA Week
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USA Program | Washington Defense Week: April
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USA Program | SOF Week
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Duration: August – May (approx. 9 months)
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Additional US programming offered to cohort (may incur additional fees) may include NADIC Roadshow and other conferences/trade shows
Costs:
Applying for LINC is free of charge, while participating in the program costs NOK 50,000
Application Process
The 2027-28 LINC Cohort Application Portal will open in early 2027
LINC Alumni Testimonials
Trygve Olav Fossum
CEO, Skarv Technologies
“The LINC program provided exactly the kind of introduction we needed to enter the US market. It connected us with a well-established network and gave us access to key people and resources that would have taken years to reach on our own. I would strongly recommend LINC to other Norwegian companies looking to expand internationally.”
Runar Kvamme
CEO, NFM US
“Whether you are an established company or a startup, the US defense market is a forest of challenges. After LINC I feel better equipped to navigate it. The program has given me access to a network of government officials, vetted advisors, and like minded companies that I continue to benefit and learn from.”
Vegard Forbord
CEO, Biodrone
"The LINC program has been instrumental in helping Biodrone accelerate our entry into the defense market. It has provided direct access to key decision-makers, valuable market insights, and a strong international network that would have taken years to build on our own. For Norwegian companies with defense ambitions, LINC is an unmatched gateway to global opportunities.”
Photos from previous LINC events
