When the European Commission presented its proposal for the long-term budget for 2028-2034 this summer, it marked the start of one of the biggest reforms of EU cohesion policy in decades. The proposal would merge regional policy and agricultural policy into a single plan per member state – instead of the regional programmes that exist today.

For Sweden, this would mean shifting power over development funds from the regions to the national level, with potentially major consequences for how growth and innovation are financed locally.

This was the starting point for the panel “From Brussels to Borlänge” during Science Week and Sweden’s Innovation Riksdag in Södertälje on 8 October, where five voices from different parts of the innovation ecosystem discussed the future of Swedish regional development policy.

“We must act now – not wait”

Ebba Björkander, Head of the Dalarna, Gävleborg and Örebro County EU Offices in Brussels, explained that the proposal implies a completely new logic for how the EU allocates its resources:

“The Commission proposes to merge regional policy and agricultural policy. Instead of regional programmes, it wants each country to develop a national plan. This is a completely new way of distributing funds.”

She emphasised the importance for Sweden to start acting now:

“We are often good at waiting until everything is ready. But here we need to act now – otherwise we risk being left without influence.”

The EU’s cement – Tillväxtverket sees opportunities

Elisabeth Backteman, Director-General of the Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth, gave the big picture of the changes shaping EU policy right now – from geopolitical tensions to the green transition:

“Europe needs to strengthen competitiveness, innovation capacity and the green transition. Cohesion policy is crucial here – it is the glue that holds Europe together.”

She identified three priority areas in the new proposal:

1. Bridging the innovation gap between regions.
2. Phasing out fossil fuels and strengthening the green competitiveness of businesses.
3. Increasing security of supply by reducing dependence on critical raw materials.

“The new Partnership Plan opens the way for action and mobilisation. But we have to do it together – nationally and regionally.”

Regions warn of reduced influence

Concerns were expressed from the regional level that the reform could lead to centralisation and a loss of capacity to act.
Matilda Eriksson from Region Örebro County emphasised that EU funds are crucial for smaller regions:

“Power is shifting from the regional to the national level. It doesn’t matter how good our communication channels are if our influence is reduced.”

She pointed out that the money is used to build capacity, testing centres and collaboration:

“These funds make a real difference. Without them, it will be harder to drive innovation and sustainable growth.”

“We must not forget local needs”

Mats Nyman, CEO of Bizmaker in Västernorrland, explained how EU funding has helped build a strong start-up scene in the region:

“We have been able to create more businesses and more jobs thanks to the Structural Funds. But I see a risk that local needs are forgotten when power is shifted upwards.”

He emphasised the importance of simplicity in the system:

“For those of us who work closest to businesses, it has to be easier. There is a threshold that we need to work together to remove.”

The metropolitan perspective: balance and co-operation

Anne Andersson, from the Stockholm region’s European office in Brussels, agreed that change is needed but warned that the reform risks becoming too nationalised:

“Putting more responsibility at national level risks closing borders between countries instead of promoting co-operation. We need to make sure that all regions are heard.”

At the same time, she pointed to the new opportunities offered by the EU’s Horizon Europe research programme, which is proposed to double its budget:

“There is huge potential here. If the whole country gets better at co-operating on research and innovation applications, Sweden can strengthen its role in Europe.”

“Now it’s up to proof”

In conclusion, Ms Backteman said that the EU must now live up to its promise of simplification:

“The EU wants to reduce the regulatory burden on businesses by 25% – it’s time to prove it. If we are to achieve the green and sustainable transition, we need to make it easier, not more complicated.”

The moderator concluded by reminding the audience:

“Remember that it was here, at Science Week and Sweden’s Innovation Riksdag, that the discussion really took off. If you want to influence future EU policy, you need to do it now.”

Ebba Bjerkander (Head of Office, Central Sweden EU Office), Anne Andersson (Managing Director, Stockholm Region European Office in Brussels), Matilda Eriksson (Development Manager: Business and Innovation, Region Örebro County), Elisabeth Backteman (Director General, Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth), Matts Nyman (CEO Bizmaker)

CampX by Volvo Group is an innovation platform that partners with deep-tech startups in the mobility industry. Combining industrial expertise with entrepreneurial spirit, they help startups scale up and integrate their technology into the industry. Through three different programmes – incubator, venture client and venture builder – it creates the conditions for collaborations that drive mobility innovation forward.

A platform for innovation and collaboration
CampX is a Volvo Group initiative to connect startups with established industry and it operates globally with hubs in Sweden, India, France and the US. The programmes are designed to support deep-tech startups throughout their journey – from early product development to potentially becoming a Volvo Group supplier.

“Currently, I am leading our incubator programme, which focuses on deep-tech startups in the early stages of the mobility industry. My work is also about developing the ecosystem for startups and industry locally in Gothenburg,” says Robert Jan van Vugt, Head of CampX Incubator Programme.

Broad experience in the startup ecosystem
Robert Jan van Vugt has a long background in the startup world, both as an entrepreneur and as a leader in incubators and innovation programmes.

“I started my entrepreneurial career about 15 years ago as one of the first employees of a deep-tech startup in the solar energy industry. After 6.5 years in various management roles, I realised that my passion is less technical and more focused on the human perspective,” he says.

After a stint as COO at one of Europe’s largest deep-tech incubators, YES!Delft in the Netherlands, he moved to Sweden in 2020. Since 2022, he has been part of CampX by Volvo Group, which works to strengthen collaboration between startups and industry.

Expectations of SISP membership
Through its membership in SISP, CampX sees an opportunity to both contribute and learn from other actors in the innovation support system.

“The peer learning and community is what we are most looking forward to. I don’t think there is any incubator, science park or start-up support organisation that is 100% satisfied with its current model. This field is still relatively new and constantly evolving,” says Robert.

He also sees a great opportunity to understand how others work to support start-ups.

“Start-ups are complex to support, and we are very interested to see how other organisations structure their support efforts. We look forward to learning from the community and sharing experiences.”

A vision to build Europe’s Y Combinator
Y Combinator, one of the world’s most successful startup accelerators, sees Robert as a role model and something we can take inspiration from at European level.

“For me, YC is not just about investment, but about building a strong network of like-minded entrepreneurs. Being part of YC acts as a seal of quality,” Robert concludes.

With its focus on deep-tech startups and mobility innovation, CampX by Volvo Group adds an important dimension to the SISP network and we warmly welcome them as members!

To CampX by Volvo Group

Helsingborg Innovation District (HID) is based in Oceanhamnen, one of Helsingborg’s most exciting urban development projects. The ambition is to be a glocal leading innovation hub that positions Helsingborg as a key player in innovation, research and sustainable growth. By creating a dynamic environment in which business, the public sector, and academia collaborate, HID will attract and develop talent, companies, and ideas that shape the future. The aim is to position Helsingborg on the national and international innovation map.

A dynamic meeting place for future innovations
Helsingborg Innovation District (HID) is a unique initiative that brings together actors from different sectors. The platform is run by the City of Helsingborg, Lund University, Region Skåne and the South Swedish Chamber of Commerce and Industry. HID includes five hubs that together contribute to the development of the innovation district: HETCH, Mindpark, Parken, Campus Helsingborg (Lund University) and Recolab.

“Our vision is to create a dynamic meeting place that makes Helsingborg visible as one of Europe’s most innovative cities and positions us as a leading player in the international innovation ecosystem,” says Zeynep Erdal, Executive Director of Helsingborg Innovation District.

Broad experience in leadership
Zeynep Erdal, who leads HID, describes her career as a combination of roles in academia, business and the public sector in several countries, including China, Turkey and Norway.

“I combine the role of a development strategist with experience as both an entrepreneur and intrapreneur, which has given me a broad background in running community development projects with multiple dimensions and actors from different sectors,” she says.

Expectations for membership in SISP
As a new member of SISP, Helsingborg Innovation District looks forward to becoming part of a national network of expertise and experience.

“We see great opportunities to learn from others, share our own successes and contribute to the national conversation on the role of innovation and research systems in societal development,” says Zeynep. She also emphasises that HID is the first innovation district to become a member of SISP, giving them a unique opportunity to contribute with new perspectives.

Exchange of experience and networking in focus
Zeynep emphasises networking, exchange of experience and business intelligence as important opportunities offered by membership:

“Innovation districts are a new phenomenon in the Swedish context, and Helsingborg is at the forefront. We look forward to contributing to the national discussion on the role of research and innovation systems in driving societal development and growth.”

A dream of the future of education
If she had unlimited resources, Zeynep would invest in creating the STEAM school of the future.

“My dream is to create a place where science, technology, engineering, art and maths are combined with practical and digital skills. The goal is to create a generation that is not only ready for the future but can actively contribute to shaping it,” she says.

With its focus on innovation and collaboration, the Helsingborg Innovation District adds an exciting new dimension to the SISP network.

To Helsingborg Innovations District.

On 30 May, the Government decided to establish a Defence Innovation Council under the leadership of Minister of Defence Pål Jonson. The Council will serve as a strategic forum for information exchange and dialogue on the Government’s defence innovation initiatives. The Council will have nine members, one of whom is Catharina Sandberg, CEO of LEAD.

– Sweden’s incubators and science parks are home to an incredible number of innovative companies that possess cutting-edge expertise and solutions that can contribute to a faster and safer transition. But together we need to find arenas and forms for how these can be tested, procured and put to practical use faster and more safely. I will contribute with knowledge and issues from the perspective of small, innovative companies,” says Catharina Sandberg.

The aim of the Defence Innovation Council is to strengthen collaboration between the defence sector and the civilian sector. The initiative will also contribute to increasing the competitiveness of the defence industry and development opportunities for business.

– The establishment of a Defence Innovation Council is an important step to take to increase the conditions for collaboration between the defence and civilian sectors. Being at the forefront of technological development and translating research and development into defence innovations is crucial for the operational capability of the defence and our security policy position. There are good prospects of succeeding in this through the innovation climate and the deep technological knowledge that exists in Sweden,” says Minister for Defence Pål Jonson.

Read the news on the government website here.

The Annual General Meeting of the association SISP Swedish Incubators & Science Parks was held on 27 May. During the meeting, the new board was elected. Ulrika Malmqvist, who has been CEO of Movexum in Gävle since 2017 after having worked in various roles at Sandbacka Park in Sandviken for 17 years before that, was elected as chairman. Ulrika’s track record is solid and we now look forward to taking part in Ulrika’s management together with the rest of the board. Let’s find out who Ulrika Malmqvist is in more detail.

Hello Ulrika! You have just been elected President of the SISP Board. Who are you?
I am an engineer in industrial economics and I like helicopter perspectives where different competences can meet. My career has been entirely centred around working in the Triple Helix. Early on, I worked for an energy company and five Swedish municipalities based in the US to achieve tech transfer and international establishments/partnerships. It has shaped me. I have also had the privilege of building a science park, a cluster and now an incubator from scratch. I like the great potential of bringing together different stakeholders to create development and value. It can be a bit challenging.

I live in Sandviken in Gästrikland with my husband Per and a daughter. We have tried living in other parts of the world but now one daughter has moved out so we see a new phase in life approaching. I enjoy downhill skiing with my family, concerts and weight training. I have always had a great commitment to organisations. I wish I had green fingers too, I’m working on it.

How does it feel to be the newly elected President of SISP?
“I’m very happy and humbled by the trust from both the election committee and the members. I am also so excited to continue working with the fantastic board that has been appointed and all the committed and competent members.

What are you looking forward to contributing as President?
I am driven by contributing to creating societal benefits. We need to continue to strengthen Sweden’s innovation capacity in the international context. The fact that SISP has locally anchored actors with a national and international connection is a fantastic asset, whose potential I want to continue to help develop.

My long experience of leading the creation and development of innovation environments will be useful, along with a large portion of curiosity and a desire to make a difference together with others – creating power and commitment towards a common vision.

How do you see the development of the ecosystem and what role do incubators and science parks play in it?
My ambition is to continue to launch the strategy established by the members. The goal is to better support the members’ ability to be Sweden’s sharpest tool for developing international capacity to support innovative companies (startups, scaleups and transformation of existing business / public sector).

Incubators and science parks are important key players, to which we want to add more value-creating players in the national system!

SISP Management Board 2024-2025

Chairman of the Board
Ulrika Malmqvist, CEO Movexum

Members of the Board
Anders Nilsson, CEO Ideon
Angelica Ekholm, CEO Dalarna Science Park
Catharina Sandberg, CEO LEAD
Jens Lundström, CEO Arctic Business
Louise Östlund, CEO Kalmar Science Park
Stefan Dinér, CEO Borås INK
Robert Kingfors, CEO Södertälje Science Park

Deputies
Anna Mårdh, CEO Skellefteå Science City
Maria Oscott, Lindholmen Science Park

Nomination Committee
Matts Nyman, CEO Bizmaker
Lena Miranda, CEO Linköping Science Park
Anders Cronholm, CEO Blekinge Business Incubator (deputy)

Sweden has incubators and science parks all over the country that operate in different sectors. Most work with startups, scaleups, existing businesses and the public sector in all kinds of industries, i.e. breadth, while others have clear niches. A natural link is often that the actors offer business development and other support in line with the areas of strength they have in their region. As an additional part of the membership offer, SISP will organise forums to bring together members in different areas, starting with food.

SISP currently has around 60 members offering niche support in around 20 areas, such as life science, ICT, IndTech, mobility and gaming. Most commonly, the various innovation environments offer both breadth in their business development support, but also niche expert support in their area of strength. Increasingly, several actors are collaborating across regional borders to offer companies the best possible support, regardless of where in the country they are located.

– Sweden’s incubators and science parks contribute daily to shaping Sweden’s new, innovative business community. As a member organisation, we need to constantly develop to strengthen collaboration with and between our members. By enabling member-driven forums, reinforced with our support nationally, we increase the power of both collaboration, knowledge sharing and influence, says Stina Lantz, CEO SISP.

Member-driven mobilisation in food

Krinova in Kristianstad has its profile area in food. Together with Innovatum, Dalarnas Science Park, Science Park Gotland, Bizmaker and Södertälje Science Park, they have found several common denominators to collaborate on in the innovative development of the food of the future. As a member organisation, SISP now offers an arena for pooling development in food in its own forum.

– Those of us with food as our area of strength have much that binds us together, both in terms of what and how we work with companies from start-up to acceleration, but also in many of the challenges we face as innovation support organisations. Being able to gather around both opportunities and challenges we face in a network within SISP facilitates and strengthens our opportunities to be visible to decision-makers and other stakeholders, but also to other future networks within SISP in cross-industry collaborations,” says Hannes van Lunteren, head of KrinovaFood.

National expert and advisory body

An increasingly important part of SISP’s work as a membership and industry organisation is to act as an expert and referral body for issues related to innovation and startups towards national policy makers. By organising members into chapters/forums, SISP will be able to coordinate referrals to members with expertise in different areas, ensuring that members’ views and recommendations in specific areas reach decision-makers.

– SISP has become an established consultation body for issues relating to research and innovation. By bringing members together, we can also streamline advocacy work and act as a unified voice with specific expertise, from across the country, when it is relevant. That must be the best way to bring about change? concludes Stina Lantz.