TheFactory

Great having stop by TheFactory this week🙌

Fresh from competing in the Olympics, Matt came by for a chat with the crew. He’s been a friend of TheFactory for a long time, so it was awesome catching up and hearing about his journey.

Thanks for the visit, Matt - and huge congratulations on the Olympics experience!🏅

Håvard is a hero because he combines sharp strategic insight with a rare ability to elevate others. As a Growth Advisor and investor, he doesn’t just guide companies—he empowers people, cultures, and opportunities. He sees potential where others see risk, giving founders the confidence, clarity, and direction they need to grow.

In the ecosystem, Håvard is a force that creates momentum. He shares his experience generously, asks the right questions, and inspires teams to think bigger and aim higher. He is a trusted sparring partner, a catalyst for growth, and someone who strengthens the entire startup community.

We are proud to be a regional finalist in the Accelerator/Incubator Program category of the Global Startup Awards, and we hope you will consider supporting us with your vote. It is people like Håvard who make the ecosystem—and our programs—as strong and impactful as they are.

Marianne Bratt Ricketts is a true hero in the startup and innovation ecosystem because she not only sees opportunities — she actively creates them. With a rare blend of insight, empathy, and forward-thinking energy, she helps founders navigate uncertainty and unlock their potential. She connects people, opens doors, and inspires confidence, serving as a catalyst for progress wherever she goes. Her ability to combine vision with pragmatism makes her a trusted guide for anyone building something new!

Beathe is a true superhero in our ecosystem. She combines leadership, higher education, and technological innovation in a way that creates real value where academia meets business. As a strong role model for the next generation, she inspires others to think bigger, build bridges, and seize future opportunities before anyone else sees them.