Interest and awareness about the Arctic and its global importance, economically, environmentally and strategically, is fast rising. The Arctic is estimated to hold as much as 30% of the world's unused resources. Utilization of these resources, strengthening and development of infrastructure, year-round trans-arctic shipping and rapidly increasing tourism requires enormous financial investments, bringing opportunities while posing threats.

Environmental awareness is increasing not least due to climate change.

There is a rapidly growing need for access to data and relevant data services, interpretation of data for business and education alike as well as knowledge based consulting for responsible policy- and decision making.