Universities are creative melting pots, where people from all over the world gather to advance knowledge and tackle big problems. As head of KTH Innovation, the entrepreneurship hub at KTH Royal Institute of Technology, I get to witness this firsthand, every day. Since the start in 2007, my team and I have supported thousands of founders, helping them turn cutting-edge technology into real impact, aiming to create a better future for us all.
We work hard to foster a culture of creativity and inclusion where founders can try and test ideas in a free and supportive environment. This approach is one of the reasons why we rank as one of Europe’s leading startup hubs.
KTH is situated in Stockholm, known as one of the most innovative cities in the world. Sweden punches above our weight when it comes to innovation, but to maintain our edge it’s essential that we step up, because even though we have been successful in the past, the way we have been operating is not good enough stay on top in the future.
We see tremendous opportunities for Sweden and Europe to excel in creating startups, especially built on advanced technology, so-called deep tech. These startups address some of the most complex and fundamental challenges in society, and can help tackle pressing problems like climate change, food security, clean energy, and health crises.
To create better conditions for deep tech companies to scale in Europe, we have to come together. We need more patient capital better suited for investing in advanced technologies. We have to create a simpler regulatory framework and harmonized standards across Europe. We need to enhance resilience, build scale-up competence and create strong supply chains across Europe. We need to be part of shaping a future built on AI.
By embracing European values, we can continue fostering a culture of creativity and build impactful solutions to make sure Europe remains the best place in the world to live and work.
At KTH we are up for the challenge and will continue to boost Sweden’s startup capacity, especially focusing on deeptech innovation. Join us in creating optimal conditions for innovation to thrive in Europe!
