Communities

DIGS community © DIGS
DIGS

As an expat, becoming a part of Trondheim's social life can be an exciting way to immerse yourself in the local culture and make new connections. Here are some steps you can take:



Networks

Attend professional networking events and industry-specific gatherings in Trondheim to expand your network and explore job opportunities. Look for subject-specific professional networks, clusters, forums, and co-working spaces that host meet-ups and events beyond regular working hours.

Check if your workplace is a member of any local networking initiatives. That might help you get in the door at social/professional events more easily.

Places to check out:

  • DIGS (Mesh community)
    DIGS is a forward leaning co-working space in central Trondheim. Offices, meeting rooms and events.
  • FAKTRY
    FAKTRY is a place where students entrepreneurs and like-minded people can prototype, develop, and share.
  • Work-Work
    Co-working, gaming bar, regular bar, events and much more. A place to stay for long or visit just to meet people.
  • Startup Trondheim
    They've built a new platform for increasing the visibility of rising stars and meeting points.
  • Grunderbrakka
    Engage centre and student dominated innovation hub close to NTNU and Sintef, also connected to Nord Universitet
  • IxDA Trondheim
    IxDA Trondheim is regular meet-ups and talks for those who work on digital user experiences,
  • CloudNative Trondheim
    Cloud Native and Kubernetes Trondheim is the official Cloud Native Computing Foundation Meetup group.
  • OLO
    OLO is a creative space. Goal is to strengthen the graphic design sphere in the Trondheim region.
  • Tech Port
    Where startups, established companies, and researchers come together to drive technological advancements.
  • Atelier Ilsvika
    Atelier Ilsvika is a work and studio community. Office spaces, studio spaces, photo studio and workshop.
  • Musikkbyen Trondheim
    Musikkbyen Trondheim aims to support the growth and development of emerging music industries.
Tech Port plenary session 2023. © Tormod Igelø Ellingsen
— Tech Port plenary session 2023. Tormod Igelø Ellingsen
— Tech Port plenary session 2023. Tormod Igelø Ellingsen

Local events and activities

Trondheim offers a wide range of events and activities throughout the year. Stay updated on local happenings by checking community boards, online event calendars, or joining local social media groups. Attend festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, and cultural events to meet like-minded individuals and engage with the local community.

These sites offer an overview:

  • Culture in Trondheim
    Check our own overview of what to do in Trondheim after work
  • TRD Events
    What's on in Trondheim? This gives you a comprehensive overview
  • Hva skjer i Trondheim (Facebook)
    Facebook group that cumulates events and activities in Trondheim - "What's on in Trondheim".
  • The List
    Offers a good overview of events and "what to do"s. They also offer articles on Trondheim life.

Join clubs and organizations

Trondheim has numerous clubs and organizations catering to various interests and hobbies. Whether you enjoy sports, outdoor activities, arts and crafts, or volunteer work, there is likely a group for you. Participating in these clubs not only allows you to pursue your passions but also provides opportunities to meet locals who share similar interests.

Outdoor meet-up at Bakklandet. © McKenna Starck
— Outdoor meet-up at Bakklandet. McKenna Starck
— Outdoor meet-up at Bakklandet. McKenna Starck

Explore language and cultural exchange programs

Consider joining language exchange programs or cultural exchange initiatives. These programs provide an opportunity to learn the local language, gain insights into Norwegian culture, and meet both fellow expats and Norwegians who are interested in cultural exchange.

Trondheim offers several language cafes and courses that cater to expats and individuals interested in learning Norwegian or other languages.

Here are some options:

SOME REFLECTION: Kayaking downtown Trondheim after work? Oh yes, you can. © Jarle Hagen
— SOME REFLECTION: Kayaking downtown Trondheim after work? Oh yes, you can. Jarle Hagen
— SOME REFLECTION: Kayaking downtown Trondheim after work? Oh yes, you can. Jarle Hagen

Get involved in community initiatives

Trondheim fosters community engagement through local initiatives and volunteer projects. Get involved to collaborate, partner, and explore further community opportunities while contributing to the local community. Building connections within the local community can open doors to new opportunities for involvement.

Seek organizations aligned with your interests through websites, social media, and local directories.

  • Community centers
    Community centers are hubs for various activities and initiatives like volunteering or social gatherings.
  • Join a dugnad
    Neighbourhood associations are active in Norway and often have meet-ups or "dugnads" (read up on that 😊).
  • Clean-up Campaigns
    Look for clean-up campaigns or environmental initiatives, such as beach clean-ups, tree planting or recycling.
  • Cultural and arts projects
    Explore opportunities to get involved in local art festivals, theater productions, art projects, or music events.

Embrace outdoor activities

Trondheim's nature invites outdoor enthusiasts with hiking, skiing, and kayaking options. Connect with locals who share your love for the outdoors through organized outings or self-guided adventures. Whether you prefer organized hikes or self-guided outings, there are options available to suit your activity level.

Some useful sites and apps

  • The Norwegian Trekking Association
    You can start by joining organised hikes or outdoor courses. For all experince levels.
  • UT.no
    Find a hike that suits you. UT.no also offers an app that you can use offline.
  • Urban and outskirts walks
    Move your legs through urban areas, lush forests and mountains, or wander along the fjord
  • BUA
    Borrow the equipment you need - for free. Boots, skis, kayaks, helmets, bikes and much much more.
Hiking and foraging in the Trondheim region. © Tormod Igelø Ellingsen
— Hiking and foraging in the Trondheim region. Tormod Igelø Ellingsen
— Hiking and foraging in the Trondheim region. Tormod Igelø Ellingsen

Utilize social media and online platforms

Join Trondheim-focused online communities and forums for expats in Norway. Connect with locals and fellow expats through social media groups, online platforms, or Trondheim-specific Facebook groups. These resources offer opportunities to ask questions, seek advice, and find social events and meetups.

Remember

Building a social life requires effort. Be open, friendly, and initiate conversations to form connections. Show curiosity about local culture and customs to integrate into Trondheim's social fabric. Although Norwegians may seem reserved, they are usually very receptive to friendly initiatives and making new friends. When Norwegians keep their distance in the beginning, it is usually a way to respect your space and give you the choice whether you want to socialize or not.