Innovation, circularity, and digitalization create measurable results. Dalarna Science Park's annual report shows strong growth, collaboration, and optimism for the future.
Dalarna is in the midst of a powerful industrial transformation. The region is attracting billions in investments, and Dalarna, as part of Northern Middle Sweden, ranks high in terms of collaboration between business, academia, and the public sector. It is now identified as a strong innovation region according to the EU's European Innovation Scoreboard. Dalarna Science Park's annual report for 2025 shows that the region's innovative power is not just bubbling, but boiling.
"Dalarna is Sweden's next growth region. The results in this year's report show that we have the capacity to both create and manage innovation. We are seeing strong progress in AI, digitalization, sustainable industry, and business development, with concrete results for companies," says Angelica Ekholm, CEO of Dalarna Science Park.
The incubator continues to be a driver of innovation and capital
Dalarna Science Park's incubator program continues to be a powerful engine where new business ideas grow into sustainable companies. During the year, 31 companies were active in the incubator and together attracted nearly SEK 20 million in external capital. For the second time in a row, the incubator has also been awarded Vinnova's prestigious excellence status.
AI and digitalization in practice
Over 100 companies and organizations have participated in AI-lyftet, an initiative that has spread knowledge about artificial intelligence throughout the region. In addition, 250 people have participated in digitization workshops around Dalarna. According to Dalarna Science Park's innovation panel, increased efficiency and productivity are the greatest benefits of increased AI competence in companies.
Support for established companies
64 established companies have participated in various development programs during the year. The HIT program, which is aimed at established companies interested in growth (scaleups), has engaged a total of 81 companies since its inception. The companies show clear long-term positive development after completing the program.
Record year for meeting places and collaboration
Interest in collaboration has been greater than ever. The Dalarna Innovation Days attracted nearly 2,000 participants. During the year, Dalarna Science Park organized 74 open events and lectures and visited the county's 15 municipalities on 43 occasions.
Circular industry accelerator brings together established and new companies
The circular industry accelerator matches established industrial companies with national and international startups to create new business models. This is a clear example of how Dalarna Science Park turns ideas into sustainable growth, both locally and globally.
