Startup Community

Give First: The Power of Mentorship and the Story of Iceland’s Startup Renaissance

When we launched Startup Iceland in 2012, few believed a startup ecosystem could take root in Iceland. But with the support of early believers like Brad Feld—who not only keynoted our first conference but also mentored founders in person—we planted the seeds of a Give First culture. Since then, mentorship has become the foundation of everything I do, from Startup Reykjavik to the investment funds I manage. I dedicate one hour every week to each founder we back—because generosity and compassion aren’t just values, they’re strategies for long-term success. Brad’s upcoming book, Give First – The Power of Mentorship, captures this beautifully. It’s not just a philosophy—it’s how we build the future.

A New Year’s Honor: Receiving the Order of the Falcon from the President of Iceland

On January 1, 2025, I was deeply honored to receive the Order of the Falcon from the President of Iceland. This recognition celebrates not only my journey in building a vibrant startup community but also the collective efforts of countless entrepreneurs, mentors, and visionaries who have fueled Iceland’s rise as a hub for innovation. Together, we’ve transformed potential into success, proving that with trust, collaboration, and bold dreams, anything is possible. This award is a testament to what we’ve built—and the limitless opportunities ahead.

Flights, lipstick and question marks

I picked up the wrong year to move countries.
In this long pilgrimage, full of cancelled flights, rescheduled flights, delayed flights, change of plans, change of airports, change of companies, masks, regulations, emotional roller coasters, joy and concern…I have been considering where brands are and what is branding adding to people’s lives in a moment in which we are all reviewing our priorities.