Welcome to Brussels, March 4–6, 2026
CEO Network Study Trip
Dear Climate Leader,
It is a pleasure to welcome you to the study trip for CEOs and university rectors in the Skift network, taking place from March 4–6, 2026!
We’re heading to Brussels, the headquarters of both the EU and NATO, to explore how these institutions shape the frameworks for climate, energy, industry, and security and what role Norway and Norwegian business can play in this evolving landscape.
Throughout the trip, we’ll meet with representatives from the European Commission, members of the European Parliament, Norway’s ambassador to the EU, and representatives from NATO. These conversations will offer unique insights into:
- How EU policy is shaped and how Norwegian stakeholders engage with it
- Opportunities within the EEA Agreement
- The intersection of climate, defense, and security in NATO’s agenda
- How business leaders can contribute to Europe’s green transition
The EU is increasingly setting the terms for Norway’s climate and industrial transformation, while NATO cooperation is being reshaped by global tensions. To lead effectively, we must understand the forces driving change and where influence can be exerted.
This study trip offers professional input and fresh perspectives that challenge and develop us as leaders. Through meetings, experiences, and dialogue, we explore the dilemmas of the green transition. Traveling with the Skift network is more than a professional gathering; it’s an experience. In new surroundings, together with other top executives, we create a space for learning, inspiration, and deeper collaboration.
Some of the people you will meet
Program
Wednesday, March 4
13.00 Welcome Lunch: State of the EU
A short introduction to the EU system, as well as an overview of the EU’s current political landscape and strategic priorities.
- Hosted by Frank Jaegtnes, CEO Elektroforeningen (EFO)
- Georg Riekeles, Associate Director at the European Policy Centre
15.00 European Parliament: Roundtable dialogue with Members of the European Parliament (MEP)
Exchange perspectives on the EU’s role in the global green transition, the importance of EEA cooperation, and how European and Norwegian businesses can contribute to competitiveness and innovation.
- Hosted by MEP Bruno Tobback (Belgium, S&D)
- MEP Andreas Schwab (Germany, EPP)
- MEP Kira Marie Petter-Hansen (Denmark, Greens/EFA)
- MEP Urmas Paet (Estonia, Renew)
18.30 Skift Dinner: Powering Europe’s Strategic Resilience
This dinner provides a setting for strategic reflection on how Europe and Norway can strengthen preparedness and competitiveness through their energy systems.
Thursday, March 5
09.00 Meeting with Teresa Ribera
Meeting with the Executive Vice-President for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition.
10.15 Thematic Parallel Sessions: Circularity, Energy, and Innovation
In-depth dialogues with officials and experts to explore concrete opportunities for innovation and collaboration between European and Norwegian actors across key sectors.
- Group 1: Circular economy with Vend, NG Nordic, Renas, and EFO
- Group 2: Energy with Å Energi, Statkraft, and Fornybar Norge
- Group 3: Innovation and research with SINTEF
12.45 Lunch: Closing the Innovation Gap
This lunch brings together leading voices from research, finance, and industry to explore how Norway and Europe can accelerate innovation across both emerging and established sectors.
- Hosted by Alexandra Bech Gjørv, CEO SINTEF
14.25 Europe and Norway: Towards a clean, competitive and resilient future
This event brings together leaders to discuss how EU–Norway cooperation can be strengthened to boost competitiveness and resilience, in light of the Draghi Report, focusing on scaling industrial decarbonisation, reducing dependencies, and mobilising private capital.
19.15 Networking Reception at the Norwegian Ambassador's Residence
Bringing Norwegian stakeholders and EU representatives together to explore Europe’s green transition in a shifting geopolitical landscape and how closer EU integration can strengthen Norway’s interests in a new era.
- Hosted by Anders H. Eide, Norway's ambassador to the EU
- Jens Ulltveit-Moe, investor and founder of Skift
Friday, March 6
09.00 Visit to NATO HQ: Climate, Security and Cooperation
Together with the Military Mission in Brussels, we will discuss NATO’s approach to climate and security policy and how Norwegian stakeholders can contribute.
12.30 Closing Lunch: Lessons from Europe’s Climate and Security Agenda
Sharing reflections and key takeaways on Europe’s climate, competitiveness, and security challenges, and what they mean for the EU’s next steps in the green transition.
Program is subject to change.
Do you have any practical questions about travel arrangements, or would you like to contribute to the program?