Amid growing momentum to better trade relations between India and Norway, Monica Nagelgaard, Consul General of Norway in Mumbai, visited the office of leading Goa-based IT and software company, Kilowott, known for its strong focus on digital transformation to discuss industry landscape, talent acquisition and ease of doing business practices in the coastal state.
Nagelgaard’s visit to Kilowott, part of her official Goa itinerary to engage with trade stakeholders and policymakers, included discussions on the Porvorim-based IT firm’s pivotal role in enabling market entry strategies for Norwegian companies exploring investment opportunities in the state.
During the visit, the consul general met Kilowott Co-Founder Caleb Fernandez and the IT firm’s team, with discussions focused on Goa’s role in supplementing efforts towards the India-Norway trade corridor, especially in technology and sustainability-linked ventures, underscoring growing trade interest from Norwegian companies in India under the recently signed India-EFTA Free Trade Agreement.
The agreement, signed in 2024, boosts trade, investment and cooperation between India and EFTA states, namely Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Liechtenstein, by reducing trade barriers and enhancing market access.
“I’ve heard about Kilowott at earlier business events and was keen to see how their operations have been developing on the ground. It was particularly fascinating to learn about Smol Block, a sustainable toy design studio, which brings an imaginative counterpoint to the more traditional IT and digital services. I see clear synergy here for Norwegian innovation-driven businesses,” said Nagelgaard. Based in Pilerne, Smol Block, a Kilowott sister concern, creates eco-friendly wooden toys in minimalist Scandinavian designs.
The Kilowott team also showcased their bespoke ‘market entry programme’, aimed at enabling Norwegian technology firms to explore trade opportunities in Goa. The initiative has already facilitated exploratory engagements in Goa for firms like Norway-based Visual Registration System (VRS) and Odda Digital System, with curated engagements held with major Goan enterprises and policymakers.
Commenting on the visit, Caleb Fernandez said, “Kilowott is honoured to host consul general Nagelgaard and share how Kilowott is acting as a bridge for tech-focused collaborations between Norway and India. Our market entry programme is not just about access—it’s about mutual growth, shared learning, and creating meaningful business relationships.”
The Consul General’s Goa visit also included meetings around circular economy and waste management—sectors where Norway has deep expertise. Commenting on her fascination with Goa, Nagelgaard said: “Goa is beautiful and has a relaxed vibe. Norwegians love the sun and sand and I’m sure they would enjoy a visit to the state.”
