Constantia is a family-owned investment company founded by Christian H. Thommessen in 1986.
From the outset, Constantia has been guided by a simple belief: attractive financial returns and positive societal impact can, and should, go hand in hand.
Rooted in a family heritage of social entrepreneurship and human development, we have sought to support people and build companies that create value by addressing some of the world's pressing challenges — including climate and social issues. Today, investments of this kind are commonly referred to as impact investments.
At the same time, Christian’s background from technology companies has always drawn us to major technological paradigm shifts and the opportunities they create. Throughout Constantia's history, this has included the emergence of the internet, the mobile revolution, the development of non-fossil energy industries such as solar, and, more recently, the rapid advances in artificial intelligence.
Building on our experience and realized gains from venture and growth investments, Constantia has for the past 20 years also engaged in real estate development, together with experienced industrial partners. Our activities have included residential development as well as the development of office space for, among others, several Norwegian government entities.
We also manage a diversified portfolio of stock funds and private equity funds, providing exposure to a broader range of companies, sectors and investment opportunities.
Our commitment to society extends beyond investments. True to our family heritage, we have also engaged in social entrepreneurship, co-founding, investing in, and contributing our time and experience to NGOs and foundations with a clear societal purpose.
We believe that ownership means more than providing capital. We seek to actively contribute to the development of the companies and organisations we engage with. Christian has served as Chair, Board Member and CEO of investee companies, as well as a coach and mentor to executive management teams, including CEOs. He has taken a similarly active role in foundation and social entrepreneurship initiatives. Nora and Annette have engaged in similar activities throughout their careers.
Entering its fifth decennium Constantia is executing a gradual generational transition. Nora and Annette have actively participated in our Board for the past 11 years. As our new CEO Nora will, building on her investment as well as industrial experience, over time build her own new portfolio of investments supported by the Board.
