This week, the Nordic startup scene felt less like a distant headline and more like a palpable energy. I was listening to Equity, where the focus was on the Nordic ecosystem’s explosive growth. Dennis Green-Leiber, founder of the AI company Propane, was the guest.
It’s hard to ignore the numbers. The region, encompassing Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden, has consistently punched above its weight. They’re not just building companies; they’re building global contenders. But why now?
Green-Leiber’s perspective, as someone in the thick of it, offered a few clues. He spoke about the shift in mindset, the willingness to embrace risk, and the collaborative spirit that seems to permeate the region. It’s a cliché, perhaps, to talk about the ‘Nordic model,’ but there’s clearly something in the water.
“We’re seeing a convergence of factors,” Green-Leiber explained, “a strong talent pool, access to capital, and a culture that supports innovation. It’s a perfect storm, really.”
The conversation made me think of the early days of Silicon Valley. That same sense of possibility, of building something new, seemed to be taking root. But this time, it’s happening in a place known for its social safety nets and a commitment to work-life balance.
I wondered if this boom would last. Every boom has a bust, right? But then I thought about the long, dark winters. Maybe the Nordic people are used to building things that can withstand a storm.
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