In an increasingly interconnected world, business networks play a pivotal role in fostering international collaboration and innovation. The Dutch Norwegian Business Network (DNBN) stands as a beacon for cross-border partnerships, providing a platform for businesses to exchange ideas and explore new opportunities.
Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Stefan Kløvning, the Chief Operating Officer of AI Automatisering, who shares his experiences and insights on leveraging such networks for business growth. Kløvning, a key participant in DNBN events, offers a unique perspective on how these interactions can enhance understanding of international markets and drive strategic expansion.
Join us as we explore the impact of DNBN on companies like AI Automatisering and delve into Kløvning's vision for the future of AI in business.
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Stefan. To start, could you tell us a bit about your background and how you became interested in AI?
Stefan Kløvning: Thank you for having me. My journey has been somewhat untraditional. I started with a strong foundation in business and accounting, earning a Master's in Accounting and Auditing. Like many in my field, I initially followed the traditional path into auditing and financial roles. However, during my time as a Power Derivatives Controller in the energy sector, I noticed significant inefficiencies in digital systems and processes. I realized that there was a huge opportunity to use technology to solve these problems. This sparked my passion for providing efficient, AI-driven solutions. Eventually, I decided to take a leap of faith, quit my job, and start my own company to focus on delivering cutting-edge digital solutions to the market. It was a big decision, but I knew it was the right step to make a meaningful impact.
Interviewer: What inspired you to co-found AI Automatisering, and what is your role within the company?
Stefan Kløvning: The inspiration came from seeing how many businesses struggled with outdated, manual processes that limited their growth potential. Together with my co-founders, we wanted to create a company that could bridge the gap between cutting-edge AI technology and practical business applications. As COO, I focus on aligning our operations with client needs, building strategic partnerships, and ensuring that our solutions deliver measurable results. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the impact we can have on a company’s efficiency and scalability.
Interviewer: Can you describe the range of services that AI Automatisering offers?
Stefan Kløvning: Absolutely. AI Automatisering specializes in end-to-end AI-driven automation solutions. Our core services include AI-powered chatbots for websites and social media channels, process automation, document processing solutions, and consulting to help businesses identify high-impact opportunities for AI. Additionally, we focus on developing AI agents and assistants that streamline customer support, automate scheduling, and optimize workflows. These intelligent systems empower businesses to be more efficient and responsive without adding extra complexity.
Interviewer: What types of clients do you typically work with, and what kind of clients are you looking to attract?
Stefan Kløvning: We work with a diverse range of clients, including those in finance, IT, logistics, and professional services. Many of our current clients are medium-sized businesses that are eager to embrace digital transformation but need guidance on where to start. Moving forward, we’re particularly interested in working with companies that are looking to scale sustainably and want to use AI as a key enabler for that growth.
Interviewer: Is your market focus primarily on Norway, or do you have a broader European or international scope?
Stefan Kløvning: While we started in Norway, where we have a deep understanding of the local market, our ambitions are increasingly international. AI has global applications, and we believe that our solutions can benefit businesses far beyond our borders. That being said, we always prioritize understanding the unique needs and challenges of the markets we enter, so we’re approaching international expansion thoughtfully.
Interviewer: How do you view the role of networks like the Dutch Norwegian Business Network (DNBN) in your business strategy?
Stefan Kløvning: Networks like DNBN are essential for fostering cross-border collaboration. They provide a platform to build relationships, share expertise, and explore new opportunities in a supportive environment. For a company like ours, which is exploring new markets, these networks are invaluable for connecting us with potential partners, clients, and industry insights.
Interviewer: You participated in the DNBN Christmas Saloon in the Netherlands. Could you share your experience from that event?
Stefan Kløvning: It was a fantastic opportunity to meet professionals from diverse industries and exchange ideas about innovation and growth. The event also gave us a deeper understanding of the Dutch market and its approach to automation and AI. Networking in such a setting helps us refine our strategies and align our offerings with the needs of international clients.

Interviewer: You were also part of a panel discussion on Cyber Security and AI at the NIEC 2024 in Oslo. What insights did you gain from that experience?
Stefan Kløvning: The panel was incredibly insightful. One key takeaway was how AI is a double-edged sword in cybersecurity—it can significantly strengthen defences but also introduces new vulnerabilities if not implemented carefully. Transparency in AI systems and collaboration across industries were recurring themes. It reinforced my belief that responsible AI deployment, with a focus on trust and accountability, will be critical in the coming years.
Interviewer: What do you see as the biggest challenges and opportunities for AI in the coming years?
Stefan Kløvning: Some of the biggest challenges will be addressing ethical concerns, data privacy, and the skills gap in implementing AI. However, these challenges also present opportunities—there’s a growing demand for solutions that prioritize ethics and transparency. I also see significant opportunities in using AI to create personalized assistants and agents that not only automate repetitive tasks but also enhance the human experience, whether that’s through better customer service or more seamless internal operations.
Interviewer: Finally, what advice would you give to businesses looking to integrate AI into their operations?
Stefan Kløvning: My advice would be to start small but think strategically. Focus on areas where automation can deliver quick wins, whether it’s reducing repetitive tasks or enhancing decision-making. It’s also important to involve your team early in the process—make sure they understand the benefits and feel confident about using the technology. AI is a powerful tool, but its success ultimately depends on how well it’s integrated into the culture and workflow of the organization.
We say thank you to Stefan for his time and a good interview!
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