A significant new node in Europe’s impact-startup ecosystem is set to arrive in Amsterdam. The impact foundation Norrsken, originating from Sweden and a well-known operator of founder hubs across Europe and Africa, has revealed plans to inaugurate Norrsken House Amsterdam in 2026. The core of the new campus will be located in the historic Van Gendt Hallen on Oostenburgereiland.
Largest European Norrsken House to Date
The relocation will be Norrsken’s biggest European house so far and is envisioned as a place where “founders, funders, thinkers, dreamers and doers” building solutions for people and the planet can collaborate. According to the organisation, the Amsterdam house will host more than 1,000 entrepreneurs and partners, highlighting Norrsken’s ambition to integrate workspace, investment and programming into a single, purpose-built impact ecosystem.
A Historic Industrial Site Reimagined
The Van Gendt Hallen, a former industrial complex designed by A.L. van Gendt at the beginning of the 20th century, provides an architecturally striking setting for the initiative. The five interconnected buildings, protected as national monuments that were originally used for heavy industrial manufacturing and locomotive production. Recent redevelopment plans aim to preserve the site’s industrial character while adapting it for cultural institutions, offices and sustainable enterprises, with restoration and energy efficiency named as key priorities.
Part of a Growing European and Global Network
Norrsken’s arrival in Amsterdam aligns with the organisation’s broader expansion beyond Stockholm to cities such as Brussels and Barcelona. This growth is part of a wider strategy that combines physical founder hubs with investment vehicles. The foundation, co-founded by Klarna entrepreneur Niklas Adalberth, has built a model that blends co-working, community programming and venture capital focused on scaling impact-driven technology companies.
Redefining Entrepreneurship in a Symbolic City
Choosing Amsterdam carries strong symbolic meaning. Norrsken’s launch materials reference the city’s historic role in the development of modern capitalism and frame the new house as an effort to “re-define” entrepreneurship for the 21st century. The goal is to promote companies that measure success not only in financial terms, but also through social and environmental impact. The adaptive reuse of the Van Gendt Hallen reinforces this message of transformation.
Strengthening Amsterdam’s Innovation Ecosystem
For Amsterdam, the project ties into broader regeneration and cultural plans for Oostenburg and the IJ waterfront. The Van Gendt masterplan has already attracted cultural projects and redevelopment initiatives, with architects and developers highlighting the potential to blend public programming, museums and commercial activity into a cohesive waterfront district. Norrsken’s presence adds an entrepreneur-focused anchor to this evolving area.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Norrsken is already inviting prospective members and partners to register ahead of the 2026 opening. As the foundation continues to scale, it will be closely watched on how effectively it balances commercial viability with local engagement and measurable impact. The Amsterdam announcement, however, sends a clear signal: the city is ready to host a major experiment in how capital, cities and mission-driven founders can work together for the benefit of people and the planet.
