Set up a business

Are you dreaming of starting your own business? Every year, we help more than 20 000 other people who have the same dream. We’re happy to help you too.

A woman who works on a PC starts her own business

Quick and simple business and customer account set-up
We are the bank for both small and larger businesses
You’ll get dedicated advisers to help you get started

Start a new sole trader company (ENK)

Start a new private limited company (AS)

Start a team or association

Going into business for yourself?

Book a meeting with DNB Start-up pilot and we’ll get back to you shortly, or read more on our webpage with tips and advice. We look forward to helping you realise your dream!

We’ll help you get started on a new company!

Starting your own business is both exciting and challenging. There’s a lot of new things to learn, and many important choices to make. But remember, we at DNB are here to support you throughout the process. Things we can help with:

Registration of the company and choice of company type
Tax rules
How you will succeed in marketing
Handling financial uncertainty
Financing and capital requirements
Market analysis and competitive conditions

Book a meeting with DNB Start-up pilot and we’ll get back to you shortly, or read more on our webpage with tips and advice. We look forward to helping you start your own business!

Make an appointment Check out our tips

Two pictures of someone starting their own business and holding a mobile phone in hand

Should you set up a private limited company (AS) or a sole trader company (ENK)?

Many people are uncertain. The choice between ENK and AS depends on several factors, such as financial risk, tax, and how you want to run the business. For some, a shared responsible company (DA) can also be an option, where two or more owners share the responsibility. Teams and associations are suitable for businesses with voluntary or voluntary objectives.

How do I set up a holding company?

A holding company is a company that has no other purpose than to own shares in other companies.

The process for setting up a holding company is essentially the same as for a normal limited company, but with some important considerations related to the company’s purpose and structure.

DNB Regnskap - banking and accounting together

We offer a simple and transparent accounting system with different packages adapted to your business

Starting my own business - which insurance policy should I choose?

When starting a business, you must also decide which insurances your business needs. Some are legally required while others are recommended, which can vary based on the type of business and industry. We have put together a number of tips for choosing insurance for startups.

Get tips for insurance Check out our industry selector

Should I start a private limited company (AS) or sole trader company (ENK)? Watch video

What type of company would suit you best, ENK or AS? (2:53 mins)

Do you already have a business?

As our customer, you get access to Norway’s best banking and finance environment. You can also choose from a wide range of services.

Become a corporate customer

Small businesses create major ripple effects

Small and medium-sized businesses form the backbone of our local communities. They not only contribute taxes and fees, but also create value through their purchase of goods and services. By investing in new businesses, we ensure welfare in the future.

Questions and answers about starting a business

What is a sole trader company (ENK)?

A sole trader company (Enkeltpersonforetak - ENK) is an organisation in which a natural person is responsible for the business. This means that you have full financial responsibility for the business’s requirements and obligations. You are not obliged to invest money in the company, so you can start with NOK 0 in your account.

ENKs are unbureaucratic, cheap and simple. In return you have personal liability for debt, get a slightly inferior level of social insurance, and all profits are taxed as personal income at up to 49.6 per cent. The ENK cannot offer ownership interests to partners, investors and key employees.

Should I start a sole trader company (ENK) or private limited company (AS)?

When starting a business, you need to consider whether you should set up an ENK or AS. If you are unsure, DNB’s Start-up advisory team help you for free.

Sole proprietorship (ENK) is an organisation in which a natural person is responsible for the business. This means that you have full financial responsibility for the business’s requirements and obligations. You are not obliged to invest money in the company, so you can start with NOK 0 in your account.

Private limited company (AS) is an abbreviation for aksjeselskap (private limited company). The private limited company has some advantages. Vis-à-vis creditors (those who have lent the company money) you’re only liable for the amount you have deposited. As an employee in your own AS you can claim the same social security benefits as other employees.

When you form an AS you need to deposit a minimum of NOK 30,000 in share capital. Compared to an ENK, AS has slightly stricter accounting requirements. An AS must also have a board of directors with at least one member.

If you want to set up a private limited company (AS) instead of a sole trader company, you can get more info here.

There are also several other company types, such as general partnership with shared liability (DA), general partnership with joint and several liability (ANS) and foundations. Read more here.

What is a private limited company (AS)?

AS is an abbreviation for aksjeselskap (private limited company). An AS has a number of advantages. Vis-à-vis creditors (those who have lent the company money) you’re only liable for the amount you have deposited. As an employee in your own AS you can claim the same social security benefits as other employees.

Can I apply to become a corporate customer without BankID?