Programme manager for incubator operations, what does that mean?
– To begin with, an incubator is simply an environment where you get help as an entrepreneur. We want to turn the already talented incubators into full-fledged experts in their various fields, everything from gaming to life science and textile incubators. Among other things, I manage the calls for proposals, simplified a kind of audition that selects the small and medium-sized companies that have the most promising innovation projects.
You have worked at start-up companies yourself, why did you apply to Vinnova?
– I've always liked innovative ideas and working with them. Vinnova is unique as I get to work with innovation on a national and societal development level. As public authority we have the resources to make a real difference. Growth and jobs are other keywords when we support a company. It is also important that the company's business concept shows international potential.
Innovation is everywhere in business, what is Vinnova's role?
– We are primarily important because of the early phases we work in. We are prepared to put resources into a good project at an earlier stage than others. There is a high level of risk at the stage we are entering, and traditional investors cannot be guaranteed a return on any investment. Vinnova wants to see innovative project realized and has no profit interests of its own as Vinnova's money is paid out as funding. This means that we can support project from a more long-term perspective.
You have introduced an activity-based office, why?
– The advantages are many when we can choose where we can sit according to what we are working on. Before, we had small cubes, which was not surface efficient as our employees travel a lot for work. Now we have a modern and fast-moving office, which matches Vinnova's way of working very well. We want to live as we teach and breathe innovation - also through our premises.