Fourteen diverse innovation projects from across the country have been selected to participate in the Startup Land business accelerator. The accelerator is specifically designed to boost economic activity, value creation, and innovation in rural areas.
Startup Land provides entrepreneurs and small businesses outside the capital region with tools, education, and expert assistance to develop their ideas further. Participants attend workshops, receive guidance from experienced mentors, and work on developing business models, securing funding, and marketing.
The accelerator runs for seven weeks, and teams will present their projects at a final event in Selfoss on November 6.
Width and ingenuity across the country
This year's participants reflect the great diversity of Icelandic innovation, ranging from sustainable food production and health promotion to technology, tourism, and other service solutions.
The following projects are participating in Startup Land 2026:
Wool balls (Southland – SASS)
Production of organic fertilizer from Icelandic wool that would otherwise be discarded, in the spirit of the circular economy.
Participant: Alice Sowa.
Akur Beer (Southland – SASS)
Innovation in brewing aimed at producing beer exclusively from Icelandic barley.
Participant: Petrína Jónsdóttir.
Holmur Health and Steinunn Saunagus (Suðurnes – SSS)
Development of a health and spa experience that promotes well-being and tourism in the region.
Participant: Unnur Svava Sverrisdóttir.
Kraftý Café (South Coast – SSS)
An innovative coffee house and experience that fosters community and cultural life.
Participants: Alexandra Ósk Laxdal and Inga Hrönn Kristjánsdóttir.
Start / Telehealth Portal (Westfjords – VF)
A central digital platform that integrates telehealth and social services from specialists to ensure residents of rural areas have equal access to services.
Participant: Thóra Kristín Bergsdóttir.
Valkyrie Adventure (Westfjords – VF)
Development of tourism and experiences in Westfjords all year round.
Participant: Jake Lampe.
Snigill – small snail, big protein (Westland – SSW)
Snail farming that opens new, sustainable paths in food and protein production in Iceland.
Participant: Sigríður Halldóra Gunnarsdóttir.
Sif's Hair Atelier (Westland – SSW)
Specialized and natural, high-quality hair solutions that boost the confidence of women struggling with hair loss.
Participant: Laura Martin Merino.
Okkar North Ltd. (Northwest Norway – SSNV)
A partnership and marketing model for businesses and organizations that utilizes digital media to enhance the region's visibility.
Participant: Sigurjón Arthur Friðjónsson.
BlómAría (Northwest Norway – SSNV)
An innovative project in local floriculture and design.
Participant: Anna Sif Ingimarsdóttir.
Favorites (Eastland – Austurbrú)
Design and production of unique Icelandic jewelry and products that evoke nostalgia and joy.
Participant: Guddis Johannadottir.
Fjarðarhjól Ltd. (Eastland – Austurbrú)
A bicycle and recreational tour service that utilizes the nature and landscape of the East Fjords.
Participant: Árni Magnús Magnusson.
Syðra Holt Ltd. (North East Iceland – SSNE)
An organic cafe, workshop, and production kitchen for products from the farm in Svarfaðardalur.
Participant: Alejandra Gabriela Soto Hernández.
AllergyID (North East Norway – SSNE)
A technology solution and app that makes it easier for people with food intolerances and allergies to find suitable food and services.
Participant: Bjarni Thor Eivarsson.
Strengthening the countryside
Startup Land aims to strengthen the network of entrepreneurs and provide them with access to expertise and tools to build a sustainable business. By supporting diverse ideas from across the country, a foundation is laid for diverse jobs, increased value creation, and greater regional resilience.
Project managers of Startup Land, which is run in cooperation with regional organizations that provide support for employment and innovation in rural areas.
More information:
info@startuplandid.is
www.startuplandid.is