Thales and Kista Science City launch Nordic cybersecurity partnership
Sweden is gaining a new route into the global cybersecurity landscape. Through a partnership with Thales, Kista Science City becomes the Nordic entry point to Trust My Tech — a programme that helps startups test, refine and scale trusted tech in real-world environments.
The collaboration connects Swedish companies with one of the world’s leading defence and digital security firms and opens the door to high-potential markets, expert mentorship, and global infrastructure.
Strengthening Sweden’s cybersecurity ecosystem
Trust My Tech is Thales Digital Factory’s open-innovation programme, designed to help early-stage companies grow by solving real problems in operational settings. Selected startups collaborate closely with Thales teams over a 12-week sprint to test and scale solutions in high-stakes environments. They benefit from 1:1 expert mentorship, advanced platforms, and validation through a global customer network.
With strategic Trust My Tech hubs in Paris, Montreal, and Singapore, Thales is now establishing Kista as its Nordic scouting outpost.
For Swedish startups, scale-ups, SMEs, and software developers, the collaboration offers a rare opportunity to validate solutions faster and access international markets. The partnership enables collaboration on critical areas like cybersecurity, advanced AI, quantum, and dual-use applications — fields where Sweden already holds strong technical capabilities.
As the regional partner, Kista Science City will support Thales in identifying promising companies, building collaborations, and co-creating local business value that can scale beyond Sweden’s borders.
“This collaboration reflects our mutual commitment to advance innovation, security, and sustainable growth within the cybersecurity ecosystem in Sweden and Europe,” says Karin Bengtsson, CEO of Kista Science City. “By partnering with Trust My Tech, we aim to empower emerging technologies and contribute to a safer digital future in times of growing uncertainty.”
For Thales, the move is part of a broader innovation strategy that relies on strong regional ecosystems and credible local partners.
“Through this collaboration in Sweden, Thales will contribute its world-class cybersecurity capabilities to bolster the Cybersecurity Hub hosted by Kista Science City,” says Håkan Ahlström, Country Director, Sweden and Finland at Thales. “The partnership enhances the hub’s international reputation and supports a dynamic, innovation-driven environment for Swedish startups.”
Join the next programme
Swedish companies can now apply to join the next Trust My Tech programme running from October to mid-December 2025.
Participating companies will gain hands-on support from Thales’ experts, real-world validation opportunities, and exposure to Thales’ global customer base. Additionally, they can choose to work from optional workspace in the Kista Science Tower, offering opportunities to collaborate with other innovators in Kista’s tech ecosystem.
Applications close on 29 August and will be reviewed promptly. Selected startups will be invited to a virtual pre-pitch on 5 September, ahead of final selection.
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For more information, reach out to sakarias.strand@kista.com