Vinnova's funding when the cluster is granted
The boards of the granted clusters of excellence will immediately initiate an individual process with Vinnova to build up their innovation and ecosystem capabilities. This is done in line with the innovation plan described in the application. The size of the innovation funding may vary over time depending on the technology maturity and development potential of the cluster, but the requested funding in the application's innovation plan must not exceed 75 percent of the requested research grant.
Vinnova will offer the funding instruments and application procedures that correspond to the clusters' combined plans and needs over time. Granted clusters of excellence will thus have a significant mandate to implement the plans described in the cluster's application. Vinnova requires that the applications have a high level of appropriateness, and the quality will be reviewed by external assessors.
Vinnova will not immediately require external co-financing. On the other hand, successful and several times greater capital attraction over time is a key performance indicator (KPI) in the authorities' follow-up and evaluation of the cluster of excellence.
Below is a brief description of examples of the types of solutions, environments and projects that Vinnova can finance. However, Vinnova does not rule out other types of interventions.
To begin with, the clusters of excellence will be able to enable research and innovation projects of various kinds. These can be large and small projects, from very low to higher Technology Readiness Level (TRL), and with support levels ranging from 100 percent to between 30 and 50 percent. If a cluster is to become a world leader in its field by 2035, it will likely need to build up a mixed portfolio of projects.
Some examples of possible projects are:
- Funding for large-scale, exploratory and visionary technology research, development and innovation, in addition to research funding from the Swedish Research Council.
- Access to relevant research infrastructures for innovators and businesses.
- Verification funds, financial support for startups and collaboration-based innovation in collaboration with established companies.
- Funding for strategic collaborations with international actors.
- Co-financing in EU projects.
Vinnova also wants the clusters of excellence to be able to build strong environments and ecosystems, and drive change in their field. This can involve initiatives such as:
- Building innovation infrastructure such as test and demonstration environments.
- Develop other types of open or shared assets.
- Establish innovation environments, hubs, shared work environments and similar collaboration areas.
- Systematic collaboration and building of ecosystems and networks, including funding for an expanded cluster organization.
- Vinnova can also fund activities aimed at coordination and cooperation between clusters.
- Efforts to drive skills development, standardisation and policy and system change.
Last updated 12 May 2026