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What does a director general do in Almedalen? Darja Isaksson shares his reflections
What role does research and innovation play in our security, adaptability and faith in the future? It was one of several questions that was in focus when Vinnova participated in Almedalen 2026. Vinnova's director general Darja Isaksson shares insights and reflections from the week in Visby.
Under Almedalsveckan brought together Vinnova Academy, companies, the public sector and international actors for a discussion. The focus was on how innovation can help meet large, complex societal challenges. We arranged seminars in the Garden of the Future together with our partners and also participated in many activities at other organisations.
Vinnova's director general Darja Isaksson brings back many new impressions from the week.
– Almedalen are special working days. You can get a lot done in a short time, but above all, there are so many exciting conversations, says Darja Isaksson.
In addition to participating in seminars, she met entrepreneurs, researchers and decision-makers in both panels and spontaneous meetings. The informal conversations are one of the most valuable parts of the week.
– The most fun thing is when you step off stage and people come up who want to talk further, share ideas and ask questions, she says.
Security, technology and competitiveness
I Vinnovas's own seminars focused on questions about security, technological development and Sweden's future competitiveness.
– We have raised the major investments in clusters of excellence that we are making together with the Swedish Research Council, to strengthen Sweden's technological leadership. We have also discussed how we can create better conditions for radical innovation, which enables faster solutions to society's needs, says Darja.
More about excellence cluster
More about radical innovation
Sweden has great opportunities
Two panels that Darja participated in were about how Sweden can seize its opportunities in a time of great challenges and fierce competition.
– We have so much to contribute in the combination of our strengths within our research, our leading companies and our startup ecosystem, says Darja.
She also takes with her from the week a belief that consensus has been strengthened.
– I go home with a feeling that we are aware on another level of how many opportunities we have ahead of us, she says.
Watch our seminars afterwards
You can watch all our seminars afterwards on our Youtube channel.
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How do we invest for the future? Research and innovation as a strategic strength for Sweden
Radical innovation for Sweden's needs - how do we meet tomorrow's challenges?
Is Sweden ready for groundbreaking technology?
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Innovation as a force for change – can we afford to think long-term?
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Last updated 30 June 2026