Do you have an idea that could make a real difference? Maybe you have a solution that simplifies everyday life, saves resources, or creates entirely new opportunities. Now is your chance to take the next step.
Applications for the 2026 SKAPA Award are now open. This award showcases Sweden’s most innovative ideas—and you could be one of them. In total, over half a million kronor will be awarded to innovators who want to further develop their solutions.
You can apply for:
• The SKAPA Award of 500,000 Swedish kronor
• The SKAPA Talent Award for young innovators, up to 250,000 Swedish kronor
For those who want to take their idea to the next level
The SKAPA Award is for those who have developed something new and want to see it grow. Perhaps you’ve already tested your idea, or maybe you’re about to take the next step. No matter where you are in the process, the award can provide visibility, credibility, and resources.
Since 1986, the SKAPA Foundation has been supporting innovators across the country. The initiative is backed by organizations such as Almi, Vinnova, and the Swedish Inventors’ Association. Together, they work to ensure that more ideas reach the market and make a positive impact.
From Dalarna to the national stage
In Dalarna, we at Dalarna Science Park coordinate the regional jury. Two winners are selected here:
- a county winner of the SKAPA Award
- A winner of the SKAPA Talent competition for people between the ages of 20 and 30
As the winner in Dalarna, you’ll advance to the national finals in Stockholm. There, you’ll meet innovators from across the country and compete for the grand prize.
Past winners demonstrate the breadth of the award. Pontus Lindberg won the prize in Dalarna in 2024 with a new method for marking timber. The year before, Daniel Björkman was honored for his head protection for soccer players. Innovation can take many forms—the important thing is that it solves a real problem. In 2021, Roger Danielsson took home the national prize with his innovation Green Buffers and won 500,000 SEK.
How it works
The process consists of three steps.
First, a regional selection process takes place, in which a jury comprising representatives from the business community and innovation support organizations, among others, selects the candidates.
A national jury then evaluates the innovations based on criteria such as innovation, business potential, and societal benefit. The connection to sustainable development is also taken into account.
Finally, the winners will be announced at a national awards ceremony in Stockholm in November.
Don't miss this opportunity – apply by May 31
You can apply yourself or nominate someone else. The most important thing is that the idea has the potential to make a difference.
The application deadline is May 31, 2026.
If you’d like to discuss your application or get some guidance on the next steps, please feel free to contact Jörgen Steen at Dalarna Science Park. We’ll help you take your idea to the next level.
Learn more and apply through the SKAPA Foundation:
https://www.stiftelsenskapa.se/
Read about past SKAPA award winners from Dalarna County
This year's SKAPA award in Dalarna goes to a medical technology innovation that can save tens of thousands of lives every year
Pontus Lindberg receives the SKAPA Dalarna Award for his innovative method for timber measurement
The 2023 SKAPA innovators in Dalarna have been named
This year's SKAPA innovators in Dalarna have been named
SKAPA Award of the Year to Roger Danielsson, Avesta, for Green Buffers
