Viltu Business? What if starting your business or a project would be as easy as ordering a coffee?
Starting a business can be challenging for anyone, but for newcomers in Iceland, it can feel especially daunting. The "Viltu Business?" conference, first launched in 2014, was created to help make this process easier. By providing clear, accessible information and resources, the event empowers participants to turn their entrepreneurial dreams into reality. Through workshops, expert advice, and networking opportunities, Viltu Business? gather a community of entrepreneurs and those interested in breaking down barriers and building bridges, helping newcomers thrive in Iceland.
A Simple Start: Making Business Info as Easy as Coffee in 2014
In 2014, a unique event in Reykjavík set out to simplify the business world for immigrants. "Viltu Business?"—meaning "Do You Want Business?"—was organized by Projekt Polska.is a non-profit supporting cultural exchange between Iceland and Poland. Curators Bryndís Jónatansdóttir and Ewa Marcinek wanted to make it as easy to get business advice in Iceland as it is to order a coffee. This idea inspired the friendly name.
Held at Bíó Paradís, the event attracted 150 people from many different countries. Over three hours, they got essential advice on starting a business, from experts like the Innovation Center Iceland and successful entrepreneurs, including Alicja Wiktoria Stoklosa of GeoDrone and Lee Nelson, founder of Sirkus Ísland. Thanks to a grant from Iceland’s Ministry of Welfare, the event was a big success in giving immigrants the tools to navigate Iceland’s business landscape.
A Fresh Take in 2023: How-to, Good Examples, and Opportunities
In 2023, Viltu Business? returned, now organized by ALO Ísland, a non-profit founded by Ewa Marcinek after the original event’s success. With support from Reykjavíkurborg, the second edition stayed true to its goal of giving immigrants the information they need to start their own businesses.
Held again at Bíó Paradís, this event featured practical sessions on taxes, legal issues, and the basics of running a business, led by consultant Emiliya Ivanova-Nikolova from Emily Consult. The program was divided into three sections—How To, Good Examples, and Opportunities—with a networking session afterward to help participants connect with others in the community. Over 120 people attended, underscoring the ongoing need for these resources.
Equal Access for Everyone: Breaking Down Barriers
At the heart of Viltu Business? is the belief that everyone should have access to information, no matter where they come from. Those of a foreign origin living in Iceland can often face barriers when it comes to starting a business, whether due to language, culture, or not knowing where to find the right resources. This is why Viltu Business? focuses on making information easily accessible, providing free materials online in English and Polish that guide people through the business world in Iceland.
Knowledge is Power: Sharing Stories and Building Networks
Beyond just giving out information, Viltu Business? emphasizes the importance of sharing knowledge. The project highlights the success stories of immigrant entrepreneurs, artists, and activists, showing what’s possible when the right resources are available. This also helps build networks and connections within the community, giving people the chance to support and learn from each other.
Empowering Immigrants: Turning Ideas Into Reality
The project’s mission is all about empowerment. Whether someone is looking for inspiration or feeling held back due to systemic barriers, Viltu Business? provides the tools, advice, and encouragement needed to get started. It promotes good practices of social participation and economic independence, helping the foreign-born overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
Building Bridges: Connecting Communities
One of the key goals of Viltu Business? is building bridges within Icelandic society. By empowering new entrepreneurs and showcasing their potential, the project helps create connections between individuals, groups, and organizations. These collaborations strengthen the community, promoting mutual support and opening doors to new opportunities.
Celebrating Success: A Spotlight on Immigrant Contributions
Lastly, Viltu Business? aims to raise awareness about the cultural, social, and economic contributions immigrants make to Iceland. By celebrating the achievements of those who succeed and advocating for those still trying, the project helps shift the narrative around immigrants, showcasing their value to Iceland’s society and economy.
The Road Ahead: Continuing the Mission
Looking forward, the mission of Viltu Business? remains vital: providing immigrants with the knowledge, resources, and support they need to take charge of their future. By continuing to promote accessibility, empowerment, and collaboration, Viltu Business? is not only helping individuals but also strengthening the diverse fabric of Iceland’s community.