New fund to help researchers bring their ideas to market
Turning research into new companies is often a long and uncertain journey. One of the greatest challenges is financing in the very earliest stages. A new fund, Trio Impact Invest, has now been launched to fill this critical gap and give researchers better opportunities to realise their ideas.
Mona Wilcke (SU Holding), Lisa Ericsson (KTH Innovations), Johan Weigelt (KI Innovations) Siimon Vaske, CEO, Trio Impact Invest AB. Photo: Press
The fund is specifically designed for research-intensive companies at the start-up stage. Unlike many other investors, Trio Impact Invest can step in early without requiring researchers to already have other investors in place. This means that promising projects can receive support more quickly and with fewer administrative hurdles.
Support that goes beyond funding
For researchers, the initiative provides not only financing but also access to networks, industry expertise and business competence. The close link to three universities: The Karolinska Institute (KI), Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) and Stockholm University, means that the fund understands researchers’ everyday realities and challenges. This creates better conditions for building companies that can carry research results all the way to societal benefit.
“The fund is backed by Tillväxtverket, the European Regional Development Fund and leading private investors, combining public financing with the expertise of KI, KTH and SU’s investment arms. This unique model allows us to invest quickly, smartly and purposefully, supporting companies with the potential to create real societal impact,” says Mona Wilcke, CEO of Stockholm University’s holding company, SU Holding.
Why researchers should seize the opportunity
For many researchers, the step from academia to business can feel daunting. But with an actor that both understands academic environments and is willing to take an early risk, the threshold is lowered. The fund is designed precisely to make space for bold ideas and to support them until they become attractive to larger investors and industry partners.
With strong backing from both the public sector, industry and the universities’ own holding companies, the fund can become an important driver for Swedish deep tech innovation. For researchers who want to see their results make a difference beyond academia, this is a unique opportunity to seek support and transform knowledge into solutions that can impact both society and industry.
Are you a researcher at Stockholm University?
For support and guidance with your idea, please contact Innovation Support at the Office for Research, Engagement and Innovation Services (REIS). Read more about Innovation Support here.