Product development and innovation

1. I have an idea which is a real innovation! Who do I approach to develop it?

• ALMI Företagspartner is a state-owned company which can help you take your idea further.
• Innovationsbron (Innovation Bridge) specialises in commercialising research and innovation.
• The Swedish Investors' Association can help you meet like-minded people and exchange ideas and tips and obtain help with problem-solving.

2. How do I finance a new concept or product?

There are many ways of financing product development. ALMI provides an innovation loan, which is designed for product development, protection of intellectual property rights and market research.

There is an ALMI company in every county, offering financing and business development to innovators, new companies and established companies wishing to expand. More information about ALMI's innovation loan can be found on their website.

3. How can the Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth help me with my product development?

The Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth has funds for product development which can be applied for via the "Product development in small companies" programme.

4. Where can I find partners for my product development/innovation?

You can contact the Industrial Development Centres, which give small companies the opportunity to use larger companies' resources and contacts, access project managers, find venture capital, meet researchers and public authorities and lots more.

5. Who do I approach to protect my innovation?

You can apply to the Swedish Patent and Registration Office for patents for technical ideas, trademarks and designs.

6. How can I tell if my product concept is good?

One way of testing the concept is to do ALMI's innovation test.

7. Is product development necessary?

Product development is not an absolute necessity, although it is good to keep an eye on competitors and technical progress. By doing so, you will remain up-to-date and ensure your long-term survival. Product development is one way of achieving growth for the company.