The award recognises a municipality that facilitates maritime value creation and encourages collaboration between industry, education and the local community. In its justification, the jury highlighted Ulstein’s strong maritime cluster, where shipowners, shipyards, design companies, technology firms and equipment suppliers work closely together.
For Mayor Stian Skorgen Scheide, the award is a reminder of what can be achieved when people work towards a common goal. During the celebration, he quoted former Ulstein CEO Idar Ulstein: "We cooperate when we can and compete when we must."
“This recognition belongs to many people. The maritime industry has helped shape Ulstein through generations, while the local community has provided the foundation for growth and development. It is the interaction between people, businesses and the municipality that makes this possible,” said Scheide.
Building on a strong heritage
The decision to hold the celebration during the Trebaatfestival (Wooden Boat Festival) was no coincidence. The festival highlights the municipality’s maritime roots and demonstrates how tradition, craftsmanship and innovation are closely connected.
Ulstein Group's CEO, Gunvor Ulstein, pointed out that shipbuilding and maritime activity have shaped the region for generations.
“We must never forget what those who came before us built. At the same time, we must continue to develop and innovate. The ability to recognise opportunities and create something together has been crucial to Ulstein’s development,” she said.
She emphasised that strong communities and successful businesses are mutually dependent.
“If we want to create growth and jobs, we must also contribute to building the community around us. That is part of what this award recognises.”
Collaboration that creates value
Ulstein Municipality competed against several strong maritime municipalities from across Norway. The award highlights how companies, educational institutions, local authorities and residents have, over time, built an environment that creates value far beyond the municipality’s borders and strengthens the
