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The Ísland.is App

17th December 2025

The project “Welcome to Akureyri” receives a grant

The Municipality of Akureyri recently received a grant of ISK 1.9 million from the SSNE Development Fund for a project entitled “Welcome to Akureyri.” The project aims to promote cooperation between companies and institutions on how best to welcome employees of foreign origin. Project partners, in addition to the Municipality of Akureyri, include SÍMEY, Akureyri Hospital, Kjarnafæði Norðlenska, and Akureyri Car Rental.

The project involves, among other things, analysing the current situation, identifying practices that have proven effective, mapping opportunities for shared learning, developing procedures and working methods, and disseminating these to other companies and institutions.

In the longer term, the project aims for companies and institutions in Akureyri and the Eyjafjörður region to be recognised for providing a warm and effective welcome to international staff. A successful reception strengthens new residents’ participation in the workplace and the community and increases the likelihood that qualified employees will settle in the area for the long term.

“We welcome this grant and the collaboration that makes the project possible. At Akureyri Hospital, a diverse group of staff of foreign origin plays a vital role in ensuring safe and high-quality healthcare services. A structured and welcoming reception is crucial, not only during the first days at work but also in the long term. The ‘Welcome to Akureyri’ project provides an opportunity to learn from the experience of others, align practices, and further strengthen the integration of new employees—for the benefit of staff, patients, and the community as a whole,” says Erla Björnsdóttir, Director of Human Resources.