Funding for sports facilities

The most important means of realising "sport and physical activity for all", is to ensure the availability of sports infrastructure that facilitates participation in sports throughout the country. Public funding for the construction and renovation of local sports facilities is therefore a key element of the Norwegian national sport policy.

A principle of Norwegian sports policy is that the development of sports facilities should be guided by local and regional priorities. Only facilities included in municipal and regional development plans are eligible for government funding, thereby ensuring that investments are based on local and regional needs assessments.

Funding for organised sport 

The Norwegian Olympic and Paralympic Committee and Confederation of Sports (NIF) is Norway’s largest voluntary, membership-based organisation. Government funding for organised sport is primarily allocated to NIF.

Government funding is the primary means of ensuring good framework conditions for the Norwegian sports movement. The Government aims to strengthen the voluntary sports organisations, while respecting their autonomy. The right for sport organisations to set and prioritise their own objectives is respected by the Norwegian authorities.

Distribution of Norsk Tipping Proceeds to Sport

The primary source of government funding for sport is the surplus generated by Norsk Tipping, Norway’s state-owned gambling operator. The distribution of these funds is regulated by the Gambling Act and associated regulations.

Sports facilities

Further information on funding for sports facilities, VAT compensation for the construction of sports facilities, and grants for sports equipment.

Funding for the Norwegian Olympic and Paralympic Committee and Confederation of Sports

The Norwegian Olympic and Paralympic Committee and Confederation of Sports (NIF) serves as the Government’s principal partner in matters concerning organised sport. 

International Sports Cooperation

The Ministry participates in international sports cooperation and is represented in the Council of Europe, as well as in various forums relating to anti-doping and sports facilities. The Nordic countries also engage in extensive cooperation in the field of sport at governmental level.