Varde Investeringslaug AS

The firm targets investments of 1 to 5 million NOK per company, typically acquiring 10-30% equity stakes. It requires board representation in all portfolio companies to contribute expertise in business development, scaling, networks, and sustainability practices. Investments follow a 5-7 year horizon with a target minimum 10% return; realized gains are recycled into new investments. Portfolio companies must demonstrate potential for sustainable operations across economic, social, and environmental dimensions.

Ownership is held by local Gudbrandsdalen entities: Gudbrandsdal Energi Holding AS (approx. 40%), AS Eidefoss (24%), Sparebank 1 Gudbrandsdal (16%), Sparebank 1 Lom og Skjåk (16%), and Skjåk Energi AS (4%). The company was founded to address the need for risk capital identified in the Krafttak for grønn vekst initiative. It is led by daily manager Hanne Maren Kristensen and chairman Per Oluf Solbraa.

Portfolio holdings include Glocal Green AS (approx. 3.7-4%, first invested October 2022, board seat held), Lom Bryggeri AS (20%), Værfast AS (20%), Namuda AS (13%), Oppatt AS (14%), and others in sectors such as bio-methanol production, brewing, outdoor activities, AI/software, and circular economy solutions. Varde Investeringslaug positions itself as a local, long-term partner supporting the transformation toward a smart, green regional economy.