In an era where change is the only constant, companies need to do more than just run their day-to-day operations. They need to be able to think in new ways, dare to grow, and sometimes completely transform themselves. Since 2021, Dalarna Science Park's HIT program (Sustainable Innovative Growth) has given established companies in Dalarna exactly that opportunity.
This means gaining the knowledge to turn challenges into strengths, build robust business models, and equip the organization for the future. With broad support from experts, methods, and tools, the HIT program strengthens companies' innovation capabilities, competitiveness, and attractiveness as employers. A total of 81 companies have participated in the HIT program since its inception and 18 companies in HIT Acceleration. Together, the companies represent 13 of the county's 15 municipalities. The companies continue to show positive development, both in terms of turnover and the number of employees, several years after completing the program.
HIT – Six-month innovation program
The HIT program is based on an eight-month development process in which companies receive support, tools, and new knowledge to grow sustainably. The program combines individual coaching with creative joint workshops and seminars. Participants delve into areas such as innovation and innovation management, sustainability and circular business models, digitalization, marketing and sales, and change management.
Sustainability permeates the entire program. Each company starts from its own needs and goals, with coaching based on clearly identified areas for development. Eight program cycles have been completed so far, and the ninth is currently underway.
HIT Acceleration when the next level becomes possible
For companies that have completed the basic HIT program and want to take further steps forward, there is HIT Acceleration. This is an in-depth program lasting a total of eight months. Here, participants build on the work from the basic program and are given more time, more depth, and more opportunities to create real change in their business.
The acceleration program focuses on giving companies even greater ability to handle rapid changes in the business environment, scale their businesses, and strengthen their competitiveness. The in-depth study covers areas such as digitization and technology maturity, internationalization, team and leadership development, capital supply and growth strategy, and innovation methods. Two of three accelerator rounds have now been completed, and the third will start shortly.
A stronger business community for a stronger Dalarna
The HIT program is more than just a development program. It is an investment in the region's future. By providing companies with concrete tools, the program contributes to a more adaptable, attractive, and competitive business community throughout Dalarna. Within the framework of HIT, new ideas are created, courageous entrepreneurs grow, and the sustainable business models of the future take shape.
From challenges to opportunities: three companies share their stories
Ovansiljan Electricity
Ovansiljans el has participated in the HIT program at both the basic level and in HIT Acceleration. The aim has been to strengthen its sustainable business practices and bring structure to its leadership. Through the program, the company felt that many things "fell into place" and that they gained a clearer direction in their development work. The management team went through the program together, which strengthened consensus and improved the division of responsibilities. The company feels that the work within HIT has led to better service, faster responses to customers, and increased internal clarity. HIT also gave them the confidence to make strategic decisions for future investments.
BK Andersson
BK Andersson chose the HIT program's basic level to accelerate its sustainability work and develop new strategies in a complex and capital-intensive industry. Through the program, the company has gained tools to transform ambitions into action plans and create long-term future security. Participation also gave the company a stronger consensus among its leaders and inspiration to develop both sustainability goals and work environment initiatives. BK Andersson's management has appreciated the coaching and new contacts that have come through HIT, including collaborations with other players. They believe that HIT has also contributed to increased clarity, energy, and direction in the company's continued development.
Herdins Paint Factory
Herdins Färgverk chose to participate in HIT to gain new energy for the company's development and create clearer goals in a time of change. With several leaders participating, the company also gained more perspectives and a better distribution of work. This has contributed to stronger participation in the business. The program provided important insights in several subject areas and strengthened the company's sustainability work, including its efforts to phase out solvents. Herdins Färgverk believes that the coaches provided valuable feedback that confirmed that the company is on the right track. This has inspired continued development. For CEO Per Strand, HIT also meant increased job satisfaction and a new understanding of the value of training and collaboration.
Number of companies in HIT 2021-2024
Avesta 2, Hedemora 2, Orsa 3, Björbo 1, Leksand 4, Rättvik 5, Borlänge 21, Ludvika 5, Säter 3, Dala, Järna 1, Malung 1, Insjön 2, Falun 18, Mora 5, Furudal 1, Nås 1, Gagnef 1, Säter 3, Svärdsjö 2, and Transtrand 1.
Read the entire Dalarna Science Park annual report
This article is part of Dalarna Science Park's annual report for 2025. The report provides an overview of our work, our results, and developments during the year.
