CSES - Incubator for entrepreneurs 50+
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | STOCKHOLMS UNIVERSITETS INNOVATION AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 1 374 565 |
| Project duration | August 2012 - October 2013 |
| Status | Completed |
Purpose and goal
The purpose has been to investigate how to design and adapt a business incubator, similar to the one SU Innovation developed through CSES, to fit the specific needs of older social entrepreneurs aged 55+, developing innovations/business ideas aimed at older people´s needs. The aim to guide 3-4 entrepreneurs through CSES business incubator process, and to provide counselling services to an additional 3-4 individuals, has been met. Thus, necessary understanding and practical knowledge in order to establish an extended and more long-term organisation, has been acquired.
Results and expected effects
A high number of entrepreneurs applied for the program, and those accepted have all been able to show significant progress in developing their concepts and businesses. Valuable knowledge has been gained regarding resources, tools and methods needed, catering for a business incubator process tailored for this target group. The prospect is that this knowledge will contribute to better capitalization of the knowledge and experience of this group, often overlooked in this context, as well as accelerating the innovation potency of this group.
Approach and implementation
In this project we have had the opportunity to explore this group´s specifics with regards to coaching and needed supporting activities, their driving forces and appropriate channels for reaching them. The entrepreneurs have been enrolled in the incubating and counselling process, as well as specific activities tailored to this group. Similar projects have been studied and a visit to the UK organisation UnLtd gave valuable insights on how to plan and implement this project. In order to share our findings a seminar have been organised and we have also been taking part in external events.