Three decades of Swedish innovation presence in Brussels

Strengthens Swedish interests in research and innovation in the EU

Since its inception in 1995, the office has been a strategic resource for strengthening Swedish interests in research and innovation in the EU.

SWERI was founded to follow EU research policy on the ground, build networks and create direct contact with decision-makers. Today, the office is run jointly by Vinnova and the Swedish Research Council, and serves as a meeting place and voice in Brussels for the Swedish research and innovation system.

On September 9, the anniversary will be celebrated with an evening event at the Royal Library of Belgium. Speakers include Darja Isaksson, director general of Vinnova, and Katarina Bjelke, director general of the Swedish Research Council.

Rémy Kolessar, head of international cooperation at Vinnova, emphasizes the importance of the office:

– SWERI is our extended arm in Brussels and plays an important role in enabling Sweden to influence and navigate the European innovation system. Through presence in central forums and collaboration with other countries' offices, we gain early insight, strategic understanding and a stronger voice in issues that shape the EU's future research and innovation. In a time when European cooperation is more important than ever, it is absolutely crucial to be where the decisions are made.

What does SWERI do?

Isabella Ismail, Vinnova's employee at SWERI, describes the office's everyday life:

– SWERI is a hub for Swedish research and innovation in Brussels. We receive many visits, arrange seminars and meetings. In this way, we convey knowledge about the EU back home, inspire more people to get involved in EU issues, and contribute to Swedish interests having an impact in Brussels.

SWERI is active in networks such as IGLO, Science Europe and Science|Business, and has over the years highlighted Swedish perspectives in the EU Commission – often in collaboration with Nordic-Baltic colleagues. The office's location in Nordic House, in the middle of Bryssels EU-kvarter, makes it possible to be close to decision-makers and offer workplaces for Swedish actors on site.

After three decades, SWERI continues to be a center for knowledge, influence and collaboration – with an eye on the future of European innovation collaboration.

Watch the film about SWERI's 30 years in Brussels

Watch the film "SWERI celebrates 30 years - three decades of Swedish innovation presence in Brussels":