Denmark–California cooperation advanced on 22 August 2025, as Denmark’s Minister for Foreign Affairs (Udenrigsministeren) Lars Løkke Rasmussen and California Governor Gavin Newsom were set to sign a partnership agreement in San Francisco County—scheduled for 9:45 a.m. local time—to expand collaboration on the green transition, new technologies and innovation.
What the Denmark–California cooperation covers: climate resilience, AI and quantum
According to the parties, the new partnership will deepen cooperation on climate resilience, clean energy and research-driven innovation. It also highlights next‑generation technologies—including artificial intelligence and quantum—as areas for structured collaboration between public authorities, universities and industry.
The agreement aims to accelerate deployment of green innovation while creating pathways for joint pilots and knowledge exchange.
Why California matters for Danish and EU green ambitions
California is a global reference point for climate policy and technology. As the world’s fourth‑largest economy, the state offers a scale that can speed up the uptake of renewable energy, electrification and climate tech—sectors where Danish companies and research institutions are active.
A stronger bilateral framework provides a platform to match Danish expertise in offshore wind, energy efficiency and power‑to‑x with California’s market demand and regulatory ambition.
Innovation Centre Denmark in Silicon Valley
The agreement builds on almost two decades of Danish presence in California through Innovation Centre Denmark in Silicon Valley and Denmark’s tech diplomacy network. These platforms connect Danish startups, established firms and universities with Californian investors, accelerators and research ecosystems.
Formalising cooperation at state level is expected to reduce friction for cross‑border projects and simplify access to testbeds and procurement channels.
Business and research opportunities from the Denmark–California partnership
Danish authorities frame the partnership as a practical instrument for companies and research groups. Priority areas include grid integration, energy storage, water management, and digital‑green solutions that link data and sustainability.
Parallel outreach in Silicon Valley targets collaboration with leading technology actors and universities, with emphasis on scaling climate solutions and responsible AI.
