Dalarna Innovation Days Expands to Five Days 

As Dalarna continues to develop, Dalarna Innovation Days is growing. Dalarna Innovation Days returns October 19–23, and new for 2026 is that the innovation week is expanding to five days. Companies, entrepreneurs, academia, and the public sector will gather at various locations throughout Dalarna to spread and share knowledge, find new partnerships, and take ideas to the next level. 

The growth of Dalarna Innovation Days isn't just about a larger program. It's about creating more opportunities for people and expertise to come together and contribute to Dalarna's development. 

This year’s program covers topics ranging from AI and digitalization to the circular economy and materials, climate and energy, food and emergency preparedness, future skills, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. These are diverse areas, but they share a common foundation from which we can work together to navigate change, seize new opportunities, and strengthen Dalarna’s competitiveness. 

All of Dalarna is part of the week 

Dalarna Innovation Days is more than just one location. Activities take place throughout the county and online. 

In Leksand, the focus is on the future of agriculture and forestry. In Mora, Visit Dalarna is bringing together the tourism industry for the Up to Date 2026 event, and in Borlänge and Avesta, there are activities for those interested in starting a business, among other things. 

Dalarna University is also participating in several program events where research, business, and the public sector come together to address concrete societal challenges and explore new opportunities for collaboration. These events highlight how knowledge and research can be put to practical use and contribute to development in Dalarna. 

AI Moves from Concept to Collaboration, and the AI Hub Is Launched 

During Dalarna Innovation Days, the AI hub in Dalarna will be launched—a new meeting place where companies and organizations can explore AI and turn opportunities into practical benefits in a sustainable way. In conjunction with the launch, there will be insights and case studies on the rapid development of AI, information about data center establishments and what they entail, as well as a discussion on what AI technology means for people, the workplace, and society. 

Capital and Investments for More Growing Companies 

Dalarna Startup Arena brings together startups, investors, and other stakeholders who can help companies take their next step. The focus is on facilitating more connections between capital and companies and attracting investment to Dalarna. The goal is to give more companies the opportunity to grow while strengthening the region’s appeal to investors. 

Experience Possible Futures 

During the week, there will also be an opportunity to experience EY Four Futures. Here, participants will explore four possible future scenarios for the year 2055, based on climate science and research on social and economic development. 

Through analysis and storytelling, the future becomes something to experience and reflect on. Where are we headed, and what choices do companies and organizations need to make today to influence future developments? 

New materials and new business opportunities. Now, Materialarenan is becoming a reality 

The program also covers the transition to a circular economy, circular material flows, and the materials of the future. It brings together concrete examples and new perspectives on how sustainability efforts can contribute to innovation, new business opportunities, and enhanced competitiveness. 

A key part of this is the Materials Arena at Dalarna Science Park, which will be inaugurated during Dalarna Innovation Days. Here, companies will have a new opportunity to explore materials, gain knowledge to help them make smarter and more sustainable material choices, and take advantage of skill-building initiatives and networks. The program also addresses the question of how waste materials can be transformed into new resources, products, and business opportunities. 

Five days to make things happen 

Dalarna Innovation Days is expanding to five days to give more people, ideas, and perspectives the opportunity to come together. 

Curious about Dalarna Innovation Days 2026? Check out the full program and find the activities that are right for you.