Get to Know the Strong Team
That Pulls Together
Partners & Management
Kenneth Junge Hermansen
Senior Partner, CEO Norway
MSc in Business and Administration
kjh@nordicinnovators.no
+45 31 20 55 38
Kenneth leads the way with his high spirit and many years of experience. He runs the office in Aarhus and offices in Norway with focus on business development and innovation.
Kenneth's extensive experience in innovation management, funding and project administration in both EU and national context has significantly impacted many companies and universities.
The few hours Kenneth does not work are spent with his family or his racing bike to clear his head.
Henrik Kemp
Senior Partner, CEO
MSc in Management of Technology
hk@nordicinnovators.dk
+45 31 52 32 36
Henrik has got a real nose for discovering the great idea which is one of the focal points for Nordic Innovators - he always thinks of new ideas.
Henrik has dedicated his career to helping companies on their funding journey and spends all his energy to continuously develop Nordic Innovators and drive the growth of our company.
In his spare free time, Henrik enjoys paddle tennis and cross fit which give him new energy.
Kristoffer Riis
Partner, CCO
MSc in Management Research
kr@nordicinnovators.dk
+45 22 74 59 70
Kristoffer’s calm but sharp mindset makes him the perfect manager of the sales and marketing team, making sure that targets are met.
Moreover, Kristoffer uses his many years of experience with soft funding to advice our clients on matching the their innovation projects with the best funding programmes available, both in Scandinavia and within the EU.
Outside of work, Kristoffer enjoys hiking and his background as business development engineer are evident in his several projects.
Félix Urbain
Partner, Senior Consultant
PhD in Materials Science
feu@nordicinnovators.dk
+34 605 227 722
In addition to his PhD in Renewable Energy, he holds an MSc in Business Management and Economics.
Félix is a world record holder. Together with a research team, he improved the efficiency record for Solar-to-Hydrogen conversion for prototype devices based on cheap photovoltaic materials. Now, he leverages his experience to help clients turn innovative ideas to winning applications.
Félix, a multilingual Luxembourger, loves living and working in Malaga.
Filippo Maria Contenti
Partner, Senior Consultant
MSc in Social Needs and Urban Areas Design, MSc. Marketing Research
fmc@nordicinnovators.dk
+34 663 795 286
Filippo transforms clients' innovative ideas into compelling business cases by simplifying and clarifying their potential. With his holistic perspective, he expertly advises businesses in market analysis, commercialisation, and stakeholder engagement, while crafting financing strategies to take projects from concept to market, supporting growth from start-ups to large industries.
Filippo enjoys family time along Malaga seafront and being a gourmet food & wine nerd.
Gabriel Morales Cid
Partner, Director of Operations
PhD in Analytical Chemistry
gm@nordicinnovators.dk
+34 696 213 641
Gabriel has a recognised scientific background with a strong industrial slant and has many years of experience with innovation management and soft funding programmes.
He founded and managed a European Project Office, leading a research team working with innovative SMEs and large companies in automotive, aerospace and food and packaging.
Off work, Gabriel enjoys family time and playing his bass guitar.
Darya Zavertalyuk
MA in Psychology
dz@nordicinnovators.dk
+34 650 708 971
Darya leads our EU Project Delivery Services, helping clients to prepare and sign grant agreements, manage projects, meet reporting obligations and objectives.
With +10 years in research, compliance and advisory services, Darya delivers solutions for all.
She is passionate about innovation and sustainability, advising SMEs and universities on market readiness.
Darya enjoys travelling and exploring new cultures.
Tormod Opedal
Business Unit Director, Norway
MSc in Business
Tormod brings a wealth of experience and an impressive track record. With his deep expertise in financial management and operational leadership within funding consultancy, he offers a unique perspective.
He contributes to our growth and expansion in Norway, focusing to strengthen our market share and margins, particularly through the SkatteFUNN scheme.
In his free time, Tormod enjoys spending time with his family and has a passion for wine and skiing.
Jessica Pellarini
EU BU Structure Coordinator
MSc in Political Science & European Studies
jp@nordicinnovators.no
+39 351 47 82 399
Jessica is the cornerstone for Nordic Innovators Norway, managing the daily operations including management of financial and HR tasks.
Before being COO, Jessica used her great experience to work successfully with different funding programmes, both national and EU.
In her free time, she likes to read, cook and hike and to immerse herself in nature.
Sébastien Allibe
Partner, Head of EU Business Units
MSc in Applied Mathematics and Computer Science
sa@nordicinnovators.dk
+33 (0)6 35 26 22 48
Sébastien is responsible for organising, planning and managing the daily operations of the division. He provides operational support and quality assurance to our clients and consultants across our offices.
With + 20 years’ experience in navigating the EU Framework programmes, Sébastien has successfully coordinated, negotiated and managed + 100 proposals across different sectors and technology areas.
Michelle Jo Kirkeberg
Head of the Danish Business Unit
MSc. in Psychology of Language
mki@nordicinnovators.dk
+45 60 38 90 42
Michelle is a dynamic force, always eager to embrace new challenges. Recently, she was promoted to lead the team of the Danish Business Unit.
Her linguistic background has given her a sharp pen and an eye for details which drive project success and her talent for leadership inspires and empowers her team.
Beyond the office, Michelle enjoys life with family and friends and not least long walks along the beach.
Benjamin Meilhac
AI Solutions Architect Manager
MSc in EBA Management of Innovation & Business Development
bme@nordicinnovators.dk
Benjamin brings a strong academic and professional background and has a sharp eye for where strategy meets technology. He now leads and manages our AI initiatives, aligning business requirements, strategic objectives, and technical constraints to design scalable AI solutions and drive digital transformation across business units.
In his free time, he enjoys travelling and visiting family across the world and exploring deep-tech trends.
Sales & Business Development
Senior Business Developer, Norway
BA in Marketing
vam@nordicinnovators.no
+47 938 48 405
Vivvi is an experienced Business Developer and has worked with most Norwegian funding programmes for R&D projects for the past 12 years. She also has experience with some EU programmes. She has assisted many clients with assessing both small and large funding opportunities.
Vivvi enjoys diving, photography, hiking, global travel and time with family and friends.
Senior Business Developer, Norway
BSc. in Engineering, Optometry
goodchild@nordicinnovators.no
+47 988 09 622
Marianne has several years of experience helping Norwegian start-ups and large enterprises secure R & D funding. With 25 years in sales and leadership, combined with an engineering degree, she can uncover the potential for funding across most technologies.
In her free time, she enjoys exercising, skiing, boating and being team leader for her daughter's football team.
Cesar Hagenfeldt
Business Developer
MSc in Business Management
chg@nordicinnovators.dk
+46 76 633 62 32
As our Business Developer for the Swedish market, Cesar is part of our Sales & Marketing team and is making a difference to our growing number of Swedish clients. Before joining us, Cesar worked as a management consultant at Deloitte where he led the business development segment.
Cesar, based in Stockholm, is passionate about football and enjoys travelling and socialising with friends.
Business Developer, Norway
MBA in Finance
olt@nordicinnovators.no
+47 90 25 97 73
Olav joins Nordic Innovators with +25 years of experience within sales, finance and business development. Moreover, he has been a entrepreneur himself starting several companies along the way within fields like FinTech, Health and Credit Insurance.
Olav lives in Norway with his family but before settling down in Olso and nearby he lived in the US where he got both his Bachelor's degree and MBA.
Morten Skarra Grøtterud
Senior Business Developer, Norway
MI in Real Estate & Management
msg@nordicinnovators.no
+47 93 09 13 72
With a specialisation in SkatteFunn, but also experience with other funding programmes, Morten brings over 15 years of expertise in navigating clients through every step of the application process, empowering them to unlock innovation and achieve growth by securing essential financial support.
Off work he enjoys family life near Oslo and coaches his son's football team.
Business Developer, Norway
International Sales
mrk@nordicinnovators.no
+47 942 64 880
Mona is an experienced advisor in national research and development programmes. Throughout her career, she has collaborated with some of Norway's most innovative companies, contributing to the realisation of ambitious projects and strengthening innovation.
In her free time, Mona enjoys nature, improving her dart skills and is always ready for new travel adventures.
Katerina Hanzalova
Sales & Marketing Coordinator
MSc in Engineering
kha@nordicinnovators.dk
+45 26 77 10 90
Before joining us, Katerina worked for a Danish startup environment with a background in biotechnology and chemistry. What fuels her are the exciting moments while bridging the business, technology & science worlds. Besides sales, she is valuable to marketing with her strategic eye.
Leisure time is spent in nature, winter swimming and activities from yoga to gym workouts.
Emiliano Lepore
Business Development
PhD in Structural Engineering
Emiliano is an entrepreneurial co-inventor of 7 patents, with 5 successfully licensed. With over 10 years in medtech and biotech innovation acroos Europe, Japan and Singapore, he excels in EU funding and business development, identifying innovative and promising European companies.
He likes long runs and exploring the world with his family.
Energy, Climate & Circular Bioeconomy Business Unit
Félix Urbain
Partner, Head of the ECC BU
M.Sc. Management, Business and Economics
PhD Materials Science
feu@nordicinnovators.dk
+34 605 227 722
Félix, a world record holder, enhanced Solar-to-Hydrogen conversion efficiency with his research team using affordable photovoltaic materials. Félix was a postdoctoral scientist in multiple topics, such as batteries, CO2 recycling, and e-fuels. Leaving the science community to exclusively work on industry-scale projects, Félix supports clients drive their innovative ideas to applications.
Félix, a multilingual Luxembourger, loves working and living in Malaga.
Filippo Maria Contenti
Partner, Senior Consultant
MSc. Social Needs and Urban Areas Design
MSc. Marketing Research
fmc@nordicinnovators.dk
+34 663 795 286
Filippo transforms clients' innovative ideas into compelling business cases by simplifying and clarifying their potential. With his holistic perspective, he expertly advises businesses in market analysis, commercialisation, and stakeholder engagement, while crafting financing strategies to take projects from concept to market, supporting growth from start-ups to large industries.
Filippo enjoys family time as well as good food & wine Malaga.
Alejandro Varas Gálvez
Senior Consultant
MSc. Innovation Management
avg@nordicinnovators.dk
Since 2008, Alejandro has been involved in R&I trying to find disruptive solutions for societal needs, drawing on his extensive experience with various EU programmes like EIC Accelerator, Eurostars, and EU Innovation Fund. As a Telecommunications Engineer, he leverages his problem-solving skills and excels in exploring new technologies, collaborating with clients to create a better world.
Family, DIY projects and books fill his free time.
Sam Bobbino
Senior Consultant
MSc. Economics of Science and Innovation
scb@nordicinnovators.dk
Sam has over 12 years of experience in innovation funding. He worked for an IoT startup on smart grid and building technologies, and managed EU grant proposals in CleanTech, Advanced Materials, and Robotics. Today, he develops funding proposals for SMEs with novel decarbonization technologies that are transforming key industries, and creates investor-ready business plans with solid financing strategy.
Besides work, Sam loves surfing and swimming with his family in Menorca.
Erik Ländström
Senior Consultant
PhD in Bioinformatics
egl@nordicinnovators.dk
After finishing his MSc. in Molecular Biology, he spent 4 years researching diabetes at Ludwig-Maximilian University in Munich.
Erik has many years of experience in applying statistical and data scientific methods to tackle problems across different industries, and he transforms this experience when he develops successful funding applications for our many clients.
In his free time, Erik enjoys travelling, going to concerts and cooking recipes from all over the world.
Ana Catarina Lima
Senior Consultant
PhD in Bioengineering Systems
acl@nordicinnovators.dk
Her PhD centred on creating natural hydrogels for drugs and cells encapsulation in tissue engineering applications. After her PhD, she was a research scientist in a startup. She saw how SMEs struggle to get funding. Hence, she became an Innovation Consultant supporting and advising companies and universities on funding programmes and preparing applications.
Ana Catarina works remotely from Northern Portugal where she enjoys water sports.
Iñigo Ozcoidi Gallues
Project Consultant
MSc. Industrial Engineering
iog@nordicinnovators.dk
His academic background serves as a solid foundation for his achievements with the Innovation Fund. Iñigo has also been an Industry 4.0 technician, used machine learning methods for production planning, managed projects and participated in volunteer activities around the world. Today, he actively contributes to the development of pioneering concepts and collaborates with colleagues from various fields and industries.
Off work, Iñigo enjoys hiking, photography and dancing salsa with friends.
Project Consultant
PhD Engineering
Eduardo holds a PhD in catalysis for H2 purification and a postdoc focused on H2 production at pilot plant scale at Buenos Aires University. His academic career was complemented by leading a biogas reforming research line at Malaga University. He worked as a project engineer designing a semi-industrial pyrolysis plant for syngas conversion into high-purity hydrogen. Now, he combines all his knowledge to develop successful applications.
Originally from Argentina, but now Eduardo enjoys life in Spain spending free time at the gym, swimming, trekking or with friends.
Mariana Abuquerque Sousa
Project Consultant
MSc. Civil engineering
mag@nordicinnovators.dk
Mariana is an experienced consultant with a civil engineering background specialising in geotechnical engineering. After 4 years she shifted to energy consultancy, focusing on solar energy and contributed to European R&D. Her combined technical expertise and in EU frameworks ensures successful funding applications for energy, climate, and circular bio-economy projects.
Mariana is originally from Lisbon but relocated to Copenhagen. Here, she also enjoys padel, bouldering, concerts and travelling.
Gonçalo De Carvalho Rodrigues
Project Consultant
PhD in Business & Management
gcr@nordicinnovators.dk
Gonçalo is a researcher, who wants to apply his knowledge to the private sector. He is experienced in biology research, medical research, and EU project funding and management and deeply engaged with the industry and policy sectors of the green transition.
Gonçalo received his MSc in Genetics and Evolution from the University of Porto, Portugal and BSc in Biology from the University of Lisbon, Portugal.
He has lived in 5 different countries, likes to read and watch sci-fi, sports and outdoors activities.
Mario Andrés Castellanos Hernández
Associate Consultant
MSc. Science in Engineering
Mario is mechanical engineer with a specialisation in machine design, but his academic background also includes a MSc in Technology-Based Business Development. Before joining Nordic Innovators, he worked in the Service Business Unit at Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy and gained experience in the Wind Industry. Mario successfully develops both European and Danish proposals including for the EU Innovation Fund and EUDP.
In his free time, Mario enjoys sports, movies and series and getting to know Denmark better.
Leire Caizán
Associate Consultant
PhD Biological Recovery and Re-use Technology
Leire completed her PhD focusing on capacitive bioanodes in Microbial Fuel Cells to harness electricity from wastewater. Leire advanced electrochemical energy storage at CIC energiGUNE, researched Solid Oxide Cells at the University of Malaga, and optimized PGM-free electrocatalysts at the University of Milano-Bicocca. Now, Leire combines all her knowledge to develop successful applications in the field of energy, climate and circular bioeconomy.
In her free time, she enjoys traveling, hiking, music, and spending quality time with family and friends.
Ana María Igual Muñoz
Project Consultant
PhD in Molecular Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Ana María, a dedicated chemist with a master’s and PhD in Molecular Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, has focused her research on energy, from thermoelectricity to perovskite solar cells and battery technologies.
She also excelled in consulting, specialising in European grant schemes, and became the Energy HAT of the European Grants Department solidifying her ability to navigate funding opportunities for energy-related innovations.
Ana María enjoys the Valencia lifestyle with hobbies such as reading and exercising.
EU Business Units
Sébastien Allibe
Partner, Head of EU Business Units
MSc in Applied Mathematics and Computer Science
sa@nordicinnovators.dk
+33 (0)6 35 26 22 48
Sébastien is responsible for organising, planning and managing the daily operations of the division. He provides operational support and quality assurance to our clients and consultants across our offices.
With + 20 years’ experience in navigating the EU Framework programmes, Sébastien has successfully coordinated, negotiated and managed + 100 proposals across different sectors and technology areas.
Jessica Pellarini
COO, Norway
MSc in Political Science & European Studies
jp@nordicinnovators.no
+39 351 47 82 399
Jessica is the cornerstone for Nordic Innovators Norway - she is in charge of the daily operations including management of financial and HR tasks.
Also, before coming COO of Norway, Jessica used her great experience to work successfully with different funding programmes, both national and EU.
In her free time, she likes to read, cook and hike and to immerse herself in nature.
Senior Consultant
MSc in Biotechnology, PhD in Plant Molecular Biology
bgs@nordicinnovators.dk
With a background in classical and molecular genetics of cultivated plants, plant breeding and forestry, he spent many years as a plant breeder and geneticist in the UK.
Bruce handles all manner of European and Danish projects, from mechanical engineering, IT, biomedicine, food science, water quality and fish farming, to mention just a few.
He moved to Spain to restore an abandoned farm and embrace a simple mountain life.
Natalia González
Senior Consultant
MSc in Chemistry
ngr@nordicinnovators.dk
Natalia lived in Madrid until graduation, then spent 10 years in the Netherlands as a pharmaceutical R&D researcher.
Natalia is specialised in Medicinal Chemistry and vaccine formulation development. When she got back to Madrid she became an Innovation Consultant and has worked with proposals for EU programmes, especially EIC Accelerator, where she leads as coordinator for the team.
Hobbies... Natalia loves music and spending time with friends and family.
Senior Consultant
Dr. rer. nat.
Before Innovators, Vasco worked at various Germain universities as researcher and research coordinator.
Vasco was the first Northern European to join the Malaga office and enjoys working across our different teams. He has developed many successful proposals for both national and EU programmes and is now also coordinator of the Eurostars programme with great success.
Vasco loves outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, skiing, and paddling in the Mediterranean.
Rajat Pandey
Senior Consultant
PhD in Biochemical & Metabolic Engineering
rp@nordicinnovators.dk
Rajat has several years of experience writing successful funding applications for many different programmes and clients, especially the EIC Accelerator and EIB VD.
Prior to his PhD, Rajat worked as a research scientist at an Indian Drug Discovery Company where he worked in protein production and structural studies.
Off work Rajat's eyes are clued to books or other hobbies like traveling, gardening and singing.
Marc Baiget Francesch
Senior Consultant
MSc in Pharmaceutical Engineering
Marc studied at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU). Here, he was introduced to the startup and innovation environment and has not left it since.
Back in Spain, Marc did some science writing and editing but moved on to being an innovation consultant writing and managing proposals for, e.g., Accelerator, RIA/IA and the WomenTech EU.
Off work, sports, photography, poetry, his guitar and travelling is a big hit.
Miguel Narvaez
Project Consultant
University Expert in Air Traffic Management
mn@nordicinnovators.dk
Miguel has an academic background in photovoltaic solar energy systems and in Thermal & Photovoltaic systems design.
Before joining Nordic Innovators, Miguel was responsible for the technical department at Odin Importaciones. Moreover, he has had his own IT company.
Luckily, Miguel lives close to the sea. In his free time, Miguel enjoys doing almost any activity related to the sea, from sailing to diving or fishing.
Iwona Blaszczyk-Lezak
Project Consultant
PhD in Chemistry
Iwona has many years of international experience and extensive experience in Research, Development and Innovation. She is a true professional with a strong background in nanomaterials, chemistry and physics of polymers, including thin layers, plasma, nanostructured materials and environmental protection. This has led to many high-quality and successful EU proposals.
Iwona loves cooking global cuisines, exploring history, and hiking with her family.
Simone Vespa
Project Consultant
PhD in Neuroscience
Simone did his PhD in Belgium, where he also got to know the healthcare industry. He collaborated with two biotech startups for his PhD and was also a freelance consultant, assisting grant proposal writing and clinical trial design & implementation, with a particular focus on medical devices. Leveraging his scientific background, he specialises in R&D and academic EU programmes.
Now, Simone lives in Andalucía, where he enjoys hiking, cooking local delicacies and lots of sport.
Project Consultant
PhD in Microbiology and Molecular Biology
ppt@nordicinnovators.dk
Paloma did her PhD in Microbiology and Molecular Biology, which focused on soil bacteria and enzymes with the aim of developing bio-based products for agriculture and bioremediation.
After 14 years in the research field, Paloma decided it was time for a professional change and has been working as Project Consultant with funding scheme ever since.
In her free time, Paloma enjoys science, reading, movies, and crafting.
Astrid Wachauer
Project Consultant
MS in Material Science
aw@nordicinnovators.dk
Astrid, who is Austrian, moved to Spain for work and she is characterised by her constant eagerness to learn new things and to broaden her horizon.
She is specialised in materials for electronics and microscopy and has for years now worked as Project Consultant for EIC Accelerator projects.
Off work, you find Astrid hiking, probably behind her camera waiting for the perfect shot. She also enjoys to explore faraway countries.
Ashish Avasthi
Associate Consultant
PhD in Nanomedicine
asa@nordicinnovators.dk
Ashish has a strong academic foundation from Nanoscience to Neuroscience, with certified skills in policymaking, communication, and project management as an MSCA alum and former Bluebook trainee.
As a researcher, he assisted on successful proposals. He is a creative thinker with great problem-solving skills that he intends to apply at Nordic Innovators.
In his spare time, he loves to play different sports, learn new languages, and travelling.
Miguel Casal
Associate Consultant
PhD in Computational Neuroscience
mcs@nordicinnovators.dk
Miguel has a degree in Biomedical Engineering and a M.Sc. in Artificial Intelligence, and earned his PhD in Computational Neuroscience as a distinguished Marie Curie Fellow. He did research into how the brain encodes, processes and uses information from the environment to shape behaviour.
After academia, Miguel worked as an AI Engineer/Data Scientist for Real Estate Marketing before joining us.
Miguel loves animals, travelling, outdoors activities and “simracing”.
The Norwegian Business Unit
Marta Coma
Senior Consultant
PhD in Environmental Engineering Technology
mc@nordicinnovators.no
Before Nordic Innovators, Marta taught at universities and collaborated on R&D with companies. However, she wanted a change and is now counselling and developing successful proposals for Norwegian funding programmes.
Marta is back living in the northeast part of Spain but has lived in several countries such as Portugal, Belgium, UK, Australia and Denmark.
She loves to cook savoury food, try new dishes from different countries and bake cakes!
Sondre Tystad
Senior Consultant
BA in Economics
Sondre is part of the growing Norwegian office in Bergen and he is busy being the head of the SkatteFunn proposals.
He has been working with the Norwegian grants schemes for more than six years with a special focus on the SkatteFUNN and Innovation Norway funding programmes.
Besides work, Sondre has lots of interests that range from economical growth and history, brewing beer and cider to watching sports, especially football and biathlon or anything competitive in nature.
Senior Consultant
MSc in Computer Science
oso@nordicinnovators.no
Olav is part of the Bergen office. He throws + 5 years of varied and strong experience with all Norwegian grant schemes of significance as well as all the major EU funding schemes.
Olav has a background in computer science and we sometimes make use of this when he is not too busy with helping our clients being successful with the Norwegian funding programmes.
Outside work, his interests range from the financial markets to exploring nature, hiking in the mountains and fishing when possible.
Teodora Pados-Dibattista
Senior Consultant
PhD in Natural Sciences
tpd@nordicinnovators.no
Originally from Hungary, but Teodora has lived abroad for years - Austria, Germany and Spain before moving to Denmark.
Teodora is a multidisciplinary scientist with a background in marine biology, marine geology and climate science. She is very interested in sustainability and nature conservation and has a never-ending love for the oceans and for all creatures living in it.
She enjoys time with her son and plans to share her passions: travel, scuba diving, and underwater photography.
Espen Iveland
Senior Consultant
MSc in Acoustics, Telecommunications, Electronics
With over 20 years in software development, Espen excels in complex systems like telecoms and air traffic control, swiftly understanding customer need.
With over a decade of expertise, Espen is a master in developing successful funding applications for R&D projects, specialising in Norwegian programmes like SkatteFUNN, Innovation Norway, and the Research Council of Norway.
Espen enjoys music, reading, and relaxing by the lake in summer.
Bjart Frode Lutnæs
Senior Consultant
PhD in Organic Analytical Chemistry
Besides his PhD where he specialised in natural product chemistry, Bjart also completed an Executive MBA.
He worked several years as a researcher on biorefinery products from lignin and cellulose, as well as on oil spill contingency research. For the past 14 years, Bjart has focused on securing soft funding with an emphasis on Norwegian funding schemes like SkatteFUNN, Innovation Norway, the Norwegian Research Council and ENOVA.
Of work, Bjart enjoys traveling, history & culture, wine and brewing beer.
Axel Baumann Ofstad
Senior Consultant
PhD, Materials Science & Engineering
abo@nordicinnovators.no
Axel is part of the growing Norwegian team and is based in the Drammen office. He brings extensive experience to Nordic Innovators, having work in the field of electrochemistry and renewable energy with PEM fuel cell development. Moreover, for the last eight years, Axel has also built solid experience working with Norwegian public funding schemes and grant application writing.
Outside of work, Axel enjoys reading and fly fishing for trout – but he also has a passion for the complete oppositive of “silent hobbies and that is Formula 1.
Project Consultant
Business Administration and Computer Science
Intensely curious, Ask spent years studying business & computer science. While studying, he also worked as an independent contractor, which included writing several successful funding applications for Norwegian SMBs.
This led him to Nordic Innovators where he applies his writing skills and broad knowledge for our clients, while constantly looking for areas of improvement.
When he is not working, you might find Ask in a hammock in the forest or behind a piano, together with friends or doing exercise.
Danish Business Unit
Michelle Jo Kirkeberg
Head of the Danish Business Unit
MSc. in Psychology of Language
mki@nordicinnovators.dk
+45 60 38 90 42
Michelle is a dynamic force, always eager to embrace new challenges. Recently, she was promoted to lead the team of the Danish Business Unit.
Her linguistic background has given her a sharp pen and an eye for details which drive project success and her talent for leadership inspires and empowers her team.
Beyond the office, Michelle enjoys life with family and friends and not least long walks along the beach.
Vera Pinheiro
Senior Consultant
PhD in Neurosciences
vp@nordicinnovators.dk
With a short brief, Vera takes action! She can work with all funding programmes, both national and EU, thanks to her extensive experience and deep knowledge of various grant schemes.
Vera is not a typical Portuguese as she speaks five languages fluently: Portuguese, French, Spanish, Italian and English – pretty impressive.
Vera enjoys winter swimming, despite never experienced a cold winter as a child.
Ana-Marina Popescu
Senior Consultant
MSc. Urban Planning & Mgmt.
Marina graduated from Aalborg University where she did research on liveability, smart mobility planning, and citizen participation across Europe.
Marina has a strong background in developing compelling funding applications and project management strategies. Her experience spans across international and sustainable development, active citizenship and youth engagement.
Marina enjoys photography and being together with friends and family.
Tina Sondergaard Thorsen
Project Consultant
MSc in Food Policy
tst@nordicinnovators.dk
Tina's academic background gave her insight into food supply chain policies ie. agriculture, sustainability and climate change, health and social policies.
Tina worked in the Danish tech startup ecosystem for companies like Techsavvy and TechBBQ before being a lead consultant securing funding for innovative projects from especially Danish funds.
Tina enjoys yoga in her free time, as well as gardening and being outdoors.
Veronika Zsuzsanna Bankó
Project Consultant
MSc in Industrial Engineering and Management
vzsb@nordicinnovators.dk
Veronika has a background in industrial product development, mechanical engineering and graphical design and spiced up with business development and project management. She is ISO 21500:2013 certified in Project management. All this gives her a proven track record of successfully secured projects.
She enjoys family time, cycling, yoga and be immersed in nature or a good book.
Anton Witmeur
Project Consultant
MSc in Organizational Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Anton's thesis from CBS focused on understanding how creative businesses make sense of AI to create new business opportunities. Besides his background, Anton has great writing skills and has already developed several successful applications for Danish schemes.
Anton love dogs, movies and American Football where he still plays recreationally for the Copenhagen Towers.
Patricia Soto Ramos
Project Consultant
MA in Economic Social and Legal Management of the Environment
psr@nordicinnovators.dk
Patricia brings 11 years of experience from the Spanish Ministry of Environment, excelling in proposal writing and innovation.
At Nordic Innovators has worked across many funding programmes and teams - lately she is mainly working with Danish funding schemes.
Patricia enjoys gastronomy, yoga, gardening and family time.
Rabiah Fardoos
Associate Consultant
PhD Immunology & Infectious diseases
Rabiah brings a strong background in Pharmaceutical Sciences and has previously worked as a postdoc at Denmark's largest hospital, where she contributed to the development and validation of assays for minimal residual disease in pediatric leukemia. Now she thrives on helping clients navigate soft funding opportunities
Outside of work, she enjoys painting, being outdoors and explore different cultures through travel.
EU Delivery Team
Darya Zavertalyuk
MA in Psychology
dz@nordicinnovators.dk
Tel: +34 650 708 971
Darya leads our EU Project Delivery Services equipping clients to prepare and sign grant agreements, manage their projects, meet reporting obligations and achieve objectives.
With +10 years of experience in research, compliance and advisory services, Darya delivers solutions for all stakeholders. Passionate about innovation and sustainability, she also enjoys advising SMEs and universities on market readiness.
When time permits it, she enjoys travelling and exploring new cultures.
Bernat González Llinares
Senior Consultant & Business Developer
PhD in Experimental Neurosciences
bg@nordicinnovators.dk
Bernat’s perseverance and teamwork skills have been key to secure EU funding. His dedication has been evident in successfully implementing EU projects, from grant agreement preparation and amendments to preparation of deliverables, business plans, as well as financial and progress reports.
After having different roles, Bernat is now Business Developer for the EU Delivery team supporting diverse projects from his expertise (linguistic, ICT, biological, and medical sector) to other technology areas covering widely from agriculture to machine learning.
Sandra Storey Mancebo
Project Consultant
MBA
Sandra excels in EU-funded project implementation. Her background in languages and business led to international experience in technology start-ups, including vehicle-to-infrastructure communications, medical logistics, and consumer products.
Sandra offers in-depth support, from back-office assistance to strategic consulting. Her skills include financial reporting, stakeholder analysis and market research. She ensures compliance with EU standards and supports project coordination for multi-beneficiary projects.
Outside work, Sandra enjoys motherhood and different cuisines.
HR, Marketing & Accounting
HR Responsible
BA in Law
ad@nordicinnovators.dk
With a degree in Law, Ana is specialised in Human Resources for Spain. She brings more than 15 years of experience from HR departments from multinational companies. Ana ensures that Nordic Innovators recruit the right people to our dynamic team.
According to Ana, the best way to work is to create the best environment, be generous, flexible and never forget a smile.
Her passion is her family and the museums, calling herself "friki of them".
Veronika Vinnytska
HR & Marketing Coordinator
MSc in English & Intercultural Comm.
vv@nordicinnovators.dk
Raised between Spain and Ukraine, Veronika has a hybrid personality and her ability of speaking multiple languages has opened doors for her in the field of HR and Marketing. Veronika also has experience as a Copywriter, Digital Marketing Assistant and Communication Specialist.
Besides assisting HR in Spain, she is a key asset to Danish HR swiftly understanding local how things work.
In her free time, she enjoys the good life at "Costa del Sol" hiking with her dog, going to the beach and reading.
Recruitment Coordinator
BA of Arts
kdo@nordicinnovators.dk
Kate is originally from Yorkshire in the north of England, but moved to Spain to escape the terrible weather!
She used to be an English teacher, but years ago Kay decided to change career and is now working in HR and Recruitment, which is also her main focus in Nordic Innovators.
In her free time Kay enjoys drawing and painting, surfing, and learning languages - besides English she speaks Spanish, a bit of French and German, and is currently learning Mandarin.
Susanne Kemp
Communications Manager
MSc in International Business Comm.
sk@nordicinnovators.dk
Susanne is shaping the internal and external communication of Nordic Innovators and helps to plan and convey our communication activities.
She has a long history of working with marketing communication, mainly Business-to-Business and digital marketing. She also has experience with organising big seminars and team events.
In her free time, Susanne loves running, tennis and skiing and not least her daily dip in the sea all year round.
Hannibal Meldgaard
Media & Marketing Manager
MSc in Film and Media Science
His background in film and media has motivated Hannibal’s curiosity and great understanding of new and digital media. His many years of experience with communication in several fields ensures he delivers the right message through the right media.
Hannibal also writes and produces compelling pitch videos to enhance our clients' applications and to help strengthen our digital strategy.
Off work, he is active with spinning and running, but also enjoys watching old films.
Filippa Gjestvang
Sales & Marketing Assistant
BA in Media and Communication
While studying her master in Information Science and Cultural Communication at the University of Copenhagen, she works part time with us where we benefit from her creative, positive and charming personlity.
Filippa helps the sales and marketing department with various tasks like developing content, especially for our Norwegian clients.
In her free time, Filippa is a dancing queen that enjoys having fun with friends. She can also just relax with Scandinavian crime series.
Morten Hjermitslev Holm
Head of Accouting
HD in Business & Adminstration, Board Education
As the Head of Accounting based in Copenhagen, Morten brings a strategic financial approach to our operations using his years of experience in financial management.
Moreover, his role involves overseeing financial activities, financial reporting and compliance.
Additionally, Morten is involved in several board work and when time allows it, he also likes to play golf and not least to brew his own beer - that we need to try...
Gintarė Kicaitė
Office Manager & Accounting
BA in Business Administration
gk@nordicinnovators.dk
Gintare has many different tasks and is always prepared to help everyone across our offices. However, she is mostly busy with office management and accounting.
Gintare is from Lithuania but has lived in Denmark for many years with her family. We try to get her to speak Danish - one day she will be fluent.
In her free time Gintare enjoys renovating her house, travelling, outdoors activities or just relaxing with a good movie or book.
Carlos Sánchez Chávez
IT Specialist
MSc in Computer Engineering
Carlos is our IT specialist and a bit of an all-rounder, as Nordic Innovators has so many remote employees and four bigger offices where he also handles the IT systems. It is not always an easy task but Carlos takes it well and always has a big a smile on his face.
Carlos has experience working for a couple of IT companies in the United States and Canada, as well as IT support for a renewable energy company.
In his free time, Carlos likes to go out with friends, make good food, reading and he enjoys hiking.
Magnus Ditlev Sørensen
Stud. BEng. Global Business and Technology
Student Sales Assistant
mdi@nordicinnovators.dk
Magnus is one of our student assistants at our Copenhagen office, where he helps the sales team.
His responsibilities include identifying new sales leads, conducting market research and assisting on other sales tasks.
When Magnus is not working or studying Global Business and Technology at The Technical University of Denmark, you find him running through the streets of Copenhagen, doing fitness or enjoying a game of padel with friends.
Gustav Barder
Stud. BA in Business Adm. & Service management
Student Sales Assistant
gb@nordicinnovators.dk
Gustav is part of our student assistant team at our Copenhagen office, where he supports the sales team
uncovering new sales opportunities, doing market research and providing assistance on a variety of sales initiatives.
Being a student at Copenhagen Business School and working 2–3 days at Nordic Innovators do not leave much free time - but Gustav manage anyway to go to the gym, enjoy Copenhagen and explore the many pastries.
Nordic Innovators Corporate Finance
Jan Rezek
Managing Director, NICF
MSc. Strategy, Organisation, Leadership
jr@nordicinnovators.dk
+45 25 33 98 89
Jan is passionate about business strategies and development and has an entrepreneurial background with focus on startups and new ventures.
His internationally-focused mindset enables him to see things around himself from many different perspectives - an attribute he first used in his approach to write successful applications and now as Head of our Capital Raising department.
Outside of work, Jan enjoys exploring all different aspects of Danish hygge.
Pernille Barkholt Rask
Team Manager,
MCs in Molecular Biology
pbr@nordicinnovators.dk
Pernille is a driving force and has been with us for more than 5 years. She has had several roles within our company, from Consultant to Team Manager for the Norwegian Business Unit to now be the Team Manager for NICF assisting with operations and delivery of services.
In her previous career, she spent much time in the Laboratory doing research in ageing and developed a scientist mind.
Pernille enjoys different outdoor activities with her family but also relaxing with board games or knitting.
Capital Raising Analyst
MSc in Finance
Mats is part of the equity team working primarily from the office in Bergen where he assists with research and analysis of different investment cases. This fits him quite well as Mats has interest and experience from the financial markets and company valuation in general.
Mats finds it particularly interesting to see how businesses grow, and all the new ideas that come to life.
When Mats is not working, he enjoys having a good time with friends or going to the gym. He also enjoys skiing or going salmon fishing in the summer.
Yuuki Nakamura
Capital Raising Analyst
MSc in Business Finance
Yuuki likes to work with data and numbers, where she absolutely excels. During her leisure time, she enjoys reading books, with a preference for genres such as Romance, fantasy, and memoir.
Morten Sejer Thomsen
Senior Associate
MSc Economics and Management.
CFI
mst@nordicinnovators.dk
Morten has a strong background in finance and extensive experience in project financing, securing capital, and financial modelling. He has worked with one of Europe’s largest solar investors, and his expertise in these areas is invaluable as we continue to support our clients with complex financial transactions in the green transition segment.
Outside of work, Morten is a dedicated badminton coach and an enthusiastic triathlete, having completed 4 Ironmans to date.