About
About Kistefos AS
Founded by Christen Sveaas, Kistefos AS is an investment company with a rich history of pursuing philanthropic projects committed to public service and academic development.
Creating a better and more equal future starts with access to high-quality education, which is why Kistefos offers several fellowship funds and scholarships for Norwegian and African students – at elite universities – around the world.
Students admitted at Harvard Kennedy School (USA), IE University (Spain), the University of St. Gallen (Switzerland), Stellenbosch University (South Africa), and Rhodes University (South Africa) are welcome to apply for the sponsorship programs. The scholarships are for Norwegian and African citizens. Those who are studying at these institutions will also be part of a prestigious international alumni network.
As of first half of 2024, Kistefos has supported 146 alumni.
For more information, please visit www.kistefos.no.
Social and educational endeavours
In addition to the Kistefos Scholarships for students at the University of St. Gallen, Harvard Kennedy School, IE University, Stellenbosch University and Rhodes University, Kistefos supports several social, educational and health endeavours.
In South Africa, Christen Sveaas and Kistefos have supported the Small Projects Foundation (SPF) since 2010. The SPF has donated a total of $5.8 million to various projects combating the prevalence of HIV and AIDS in the Eastern Cape district of South Africa. They also provide better health care and education in the region.
An education program has also helped over 100 early childhood centres, primary schools and secondary schools in South Africa. Kistefos Opportunity Fund supports small businesses through education and mentoring programs — resulting in executives for over 100 small companies completing a Micro MBA program.
Visit Kistefos
Built on the grounds of a historical pulp mill, Kistefos today offers world-class architecture, an Industrial Museum, two art galleries, and an impressive sculpture park with 53 sculptures in scenic surroundings.
The new art gallery The Twist, is a gallery, a bridge and a sculpture all in one, and has won several awards for its cutting edge design. In 2020, Kistefos was named a “must-see cultural destination” by the New York Times.
For more information, please visit: www.kistefos.museum.no
