Arena is a national programme owned by Innovation Norway, SIVA and the Research Council of Norway. The programme approves new projects based on public announcements and predetermined selection criteria and procedures. The programme maintains a close dialogue with regional support and development authorities who are responsible for supporting the development of new project initiatives by way of precursory studies and preliminary projects.

The greatest potential the businesses have for further value creation is found in creating attractive and valuable experience products. The cluster businesses have therefore defined the following vision for their own development in the Arena Project: “Together we shall enthuse our guests with world class experiences."

Arena Innovative Experiences is a joint venture between the cluster businesses, the public support and development system and research and educational institutions. The companies taking part in the business cluster are located in the northern parts of the county of Nordland, i.e. The regions of Lofoten, Vesterålen, Ofoten and Salten, together with Svalbard.