The SINTEF Group performs contract research and development for industry and the public sector in the fields of technology, medicine and the natural and social sciences. With 1800 employees and an annual turnover of NOK 1.5 billion, SINTEF is one of Europe's largest independent research organizations. Contracts from the public and private sectors provide 90% of the operating revenue. SINTEF operates in close collaboration with the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) in Trondheim. The two institutions form a center of expertise of high international standard. SINTEF also cooperate with the University of Oslo. The task as a foundation is to ensure that knowledge is used to promote sustainable value creation in society. The results of SINTEF's work should be reflected in the competitiveness of Norwegian industry and the productivity of the public sector.