The first call for applications closed on May 5, according to the fund. The four assessors are Cecilia Vaz, Johan Pousette, Helena Godotter Karlberg, and Eli Frankel. They have broad competence in culture, social innovation, and community development, the fund said. Their task is to select which projects will receive funding, maintaining an arm's length distance from the business sector. The assessors will meet later in the week for a start-up meeting to review the applications.
Hanna Isaksson, project manager for KOSA, said the high interest from across Sweden to become assessors shows the enthusiasm for KOSA and development in Norrbotten. She noted that the selection was based on different areas of competence, experiences, and perspectives, and that the team is very satisfied with the result. Jonna Barsk, SSAB representative, said the number of applications demonstrates the activity in Norrbotten and that the assessment group gives KOSA a strong start.