Ready to start in the innovation support system

In early April, around 30 people from innovation offices, science parks, incubators and holding companies gathered in Stockholm to participate in the basic training for actors in the academic innovation support system – an initiative now in its fifth year.

The training, organised by SNITTS, SISP and FUHS, aims to provide new employees and others who want to strengthen their understanding of the system with a common knowledge base, a clearer professional language and a deeper understanding of the roles, mandates and contexts that characterise the Swedish innovation support system.

During two intensive days, participants were exposed to lectures, tools and concepts, interspersed with discussions and interactive exercises. The blocks included topics such as the history and emergence of the Swedish support system, the use of concepts and tools, goals and measurement, and an introduction to financing, intangible assets and collaboration. Many elements were designed as games, games or case-based collaborations, which was appreciated by the participants. The elaborate organisation and the strong commitment of the course leaders contributed to making the learning both rewarding and fun.

“Very instructive and thought-provoking workshops and interesting meetings with committed participants,” summarised one of the participants in their evaluation.

Interactivity, networking and common ground

A recurring theme in the participants’ evaluations was the interactive approach and the many opportunities for dialogue and shared learning. For many, the training was the first opportunity to meet colleagues from other parts of the country – with similar missions but different local conditions.

“The programme provided a good foundation to build on and a great opportunity to broaden your network!” was another comment.

The ambition of the training to create a common understanding of the system was clearly visible in the conversations.

“When we came together and gained a deeper understanding of the other actors in the system, we have a better chance of interacting in the best way, for the best customer experience,” described one participant.

“Having the opportunity to attend this programme was fantastic. It gave me both a deeper understanding of how the system works in Sweden and a sense of being part of something bigger,” says Katarina Bennich, one of the participants who is a new employee at SISP. “The course leaders deserve a lot of credit – not least Hanna Wiljebrand, who created an open, generous and learning environment.”

Strong response – and continued progress

The programme, which received an average rating of 9.4 out of 10 from previous participants, continues to attract a wide range of staff from across the innovation support system. The ambition is that the training will both speed up the onboarding process for new staff, and lay the foundations for a common language and stronger collaboration across organisational boundaries.

As the system evolves and the demands for collaboration between academia, business and the public sector increase, the need for shared understanding, systemic expertise and networks becomes even more important.