Pick your path, let’s build

I work with corporates, founders, and investors. Hands-on when you need execution, hands-off when you need guiding, and ideally with skin in the game. The common thread: turning ideas into products and ventures that actually grow.

Let’s talk: erlend@hovgaard.no

Book a slot in my calendar

For corporates

Problem: Innovation often stalls in PowerPoints, steering groups, or fails at execution.

Solution: I work hands-on as part of your team — product, service design, and venture building with clear stage-gates and outcomes. Or I guide you hands-off as a coach — running workshops, framing opportunities, and steering teams through critical stages.

For founders

Problem: Technical founders often struggle to move from idea to MVP that sells, to win early customers, or to reach product–market fit and secure investors.

Solution: I help at each stage, hands-on or hands-off: shaping the strategy, building and testing MVPs, attracting customers, and raising capital. Sometimes project-based, sometimes as a co-founder-type partner combining sweat and equity.

For investors

Problem: Too many decks, too few ventures with traction. Portfolio startups often stall on speed, execution, or product-market fit. Or you need sharper due diligence before investing.

Solution: I bring operator-led deal flow where I’ve been builder, advisor, or co-founder. I also help your portfolio companies accelerate or strengthen their case. And I look for smart capital and partners for my own ventures.

How we can collaborate

There are examples of common engagement models, adapted to each project.

90-day venture path

For corporates or founders who want speed.
A structured sprint from problem to prototype and market test. In three months you’ll have an MVP, customer evidence on willingness to pay, and a clear path for scaling or adjusting.
Co-founder support

For founders who need a partner.
From idea to MVP and pilots, from MVP to product-market fit, and from pilots to funding. I work hands-on with product, design, growth and investor readiness to move faster.
Coach and catalyst

For teams that need guidance, not headcount.
Workshops, sparring, and problem framing to cut through noise. I help teams align, make decisions, and create momentum at critical stages.
Venture reality check

For investors and their portfolio.
Deep dive into product/market fit, execution bottlenecks, and growth levers. Clear recommendations and, if needed, hands-on support to accelerate results.