As of now, two of the country’s leading business incubators, the Norrköping Science Park incubator and the Mjärdevi Business Incubator (MBI) have formed a new company. This amalgamation takes place in the light of increased efforts, by Linköping University, to increase commercialisation of innovations. For Norrköping Science Park – who has been the motor behind this fusion – and also for the municipality of Norrköping, this is a natural progression in the on-going work to strengthen the business sector in Norrköping and the region. Tangible preparations for the fusion began at the end of 2006 and beginning of 2007. The owner of this new company is Linköping University.

Norrköping Science Park and Mjärdevi Business Incubator have both successfully run two business incubators. The fact that Innovationsbron has chosen to become financially involved with this venture, within the boundaries of the National Incubation Programme, is witness to a national recognition.

“The fusion between the two companies is an important step for this region as it provides opportunities to concentrate efforts and focus resources which will better support innovative business growth”, says Mille Millnert, President Linköping University.

“Through the establishment of a regional business incubator we can create conditions whereby the business community in Norrköping is able to develop and regenerate”, says Mattias Ottosson, Chairman of the Municipal Executive Board.

This amalgamation generates a greater critical mass for both the company as well as for the resources, which are important for the continued development of the operation. Those businesses expected to benefit from the incubator process will also experience many advantages. An important aspect is increased access to professional resources in the form of the various specialist competencies held by the business coaches. At the same time both cities will continue to develop their own profile areas.

“We also expect to attract even more potential growth businesses, partners and not least of all, investors”, says Mille Millnert. “Having such a strong owner also creates clarity and stability, says Mille.

The goal of this new incubator is to work with 30 businesses concurrently within the process, introducing 10 new companies annually which will equal the 10 that are expected to leave the process every year.