Open innovation between large corporations and scale-ups

Important results from the project

The project´s aim has been to increase understanding of how innovation hubs can act as accelerators for scale-up companies and as a transforming force for large Swedish companies. The focus of the interactive study has been on AZ BioVentureHub and CampX by Volvo Group, and the project has analyzed and conceptualized how the two activities are structured in relation to stated purposes and desired effects, and has also documented how the initiatives have developed and changed over time.

Expected long term effects

The project has generated scientific contributions in the field of open innovation, in the form of articles, conference contributions, a published book and a Vinnova report. Interviews and meetings have contributed to critical reflection and learning for the participating actors. Spreading knowledge and benefiting a wider audience has also been an important element throughout the course of the project, and over the years the project has participated in a series of open lectures, seminars and workshops.

Approach and implementation

The study was held during 2019 - 2023 in close collaboration between the School of Business at GU, Volvo Group (CampX) and AstraZeneca (BioVentureHub). Based on interactive research methodology, we documented the development of these two initiatives, and through interviews, workshops/seminars and document analyses, we have conceptualized and deepened knowledge about open innovation in practice. These insights have been continuously fed back our findings to the two participating project parties and in various public contexts.