When we at Dalarna Science Park recently took the temperature of the innovation climate in Dalarna, the results showed that there is a strong belief in innovation-driven growth. Those of us who work daily to strengthen innovation in Dalarna are naturally pleased with the positive attitude to change and renewal. At the same time, we are convinced that Dalarna can do even better.
Among those who participated in the survey, a majority, around 60%, think that the supportive organizations in the county contribute to a positive innovation climate. Almost the same proportion of respondents believe that the electricity and energy sector is Dalarna's strongest card.
This is perhaps not surprising given the major establishments and expansions in the field that we have seen in the last year alone. Smart energy systems is also one of five knowledge areas with high innovation power identified in Region Dalarna's development strategy, so here the development matches the set goals.
On the right track
Dalarna currently has a relatively low innovation index. Improving our index requires, among other things, increased access to skills and capital, more innovative companies and greater diversity in the business community.
Indicators where the trend is positive instead are the number of trademarks, patents and design applications, as well as the proportion of foreign-born people in gainful employment. On the plus side, we also see an increase in exports, which is gratifying. I am convinced that there are good conditions for innovation-driven growth in Dalarna.
Region Dalarna's development strategy describes Dalarna as an innovative region where challenge-driven innovation will create sustainable growth.
I think I have noticed an increased focus on innovation and development issues among many actors in business, academia and the public sector.
We are now experiencing an increased inflow of both new start-ups to our business incubator and we are being approached by companies looking to grow/scale their business in different ways. In order to do the very best for businesses, we collaborate across organizational boundaries to support the companies that will help us solve our societal challenges. So when people who live and work here in Dalarna now perceive that there is good support for new ideas and ambitions, it is proof that Dalarna is on the right track.
Ideas that make a difference
To help identify more new ideas, Dalarna Science Park has been involved in organizing two innovation competitions during the first months of the year: 24h Innovation Challenge together with Dalarna University and Hitachi, and the innovation competition Jagharenidé.nu, which has been open to the public.
Together, the two competitions generated around forty new ideas and also gave many creative and knowledgeable people the chance to meet. We are of course very happy about that!
At Dalarna Science Park, we are constantly looking for new ways to drive development and innovation. I think we have an exciting year ahead of us and before 2023 is over, I hope that we will have identified many new ideas and that we will have harnessed and made visible some of the power that exists in Dalarna.
The award ceremony jagharenide.nu will take place on April 19 at 11.00, please join us here at Dalarna Science Park then.
Facts about the Innovation Panel
Recurring digital survey that goes out to people working in Dalarna. The latest Innovation Panel was conducted during weeks 7-9. Would you like to participate in future Innovation Panels? Sign up here: Dalarna Science Park Innovation Report 2022 - Dalarna Science Park
