Civil tech to power up defence
Civil tech to power up defence
With global security challenges on the rise, the integration of new technologies into the defense sector has become a priority for Sweden. Central to this initiative is the effort to bridge the gap between the civil sector’s technological solutions and the defense industry’s specific needs. Sweden’s rich ecosystem of startups and scaleups is increasingly recognized as crucial to strengthening Sweden’s framework as these companies offer groundbreaking innovations and fresh perspectives that help navigate the challenges of modern security threats.
Bridging civil and defence sectors
Shared visions and increased collaboration between the civil and defence sectors are key. There is a pressing need to close the gap that has been widening between these sectors, and actors across the spectrum call for a more integrated approach. The synergy of civil sector innovation and defence expertise safeguards national security.
A tradition of innovation
Sweden’s role as a pioneer in technological innovation is a strategic asset in its defence policy. As security concerns increase, we must ensure that Sweden remains at the forefront of defence technology, ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow. This includes investing in research and development, encouraging cross-sectoral knowledge exchange, and creating an environment where innovative ideas can flourish and be rapidly deployed.
The role of startups and scaleups
Startups and scaleups are essential partners in driving technological advancements in the defence sector. Their agility, innovative approaches, and groundbreaking technologies are critical for enhancing Sweden’s defence capabilities, making their involvement essential for the nation’s security framework. To boost this involvement, there is a need for supportive frameworks that facilitate these partnerships, including funding mechanisms, regulatory support, and platforms for collaboration.
Insights from the Swedish Minister for Defence
At a recent event on Defense and Innovation, Swedish Minister for Defence, Pål Jonson, stressed the critical need for innovative solutions amidst growing security challenges in Sweden and Europe. Jonson acknowledged the civil sector’s significant role and potential in enhancing Sweden’s defence through technology and innovation. He also emphasized the government’s desire for more coordinated efforts in innovation and for lowering the barriers for new companies to contribute to the defence sector.
The event brought together a mix of cutting-edge startups and scaleups, and decision-makers to explore the potential of civil sector innovations in meeting defence needs.
The minister directly addressed startups and scaleups: “I’m here today because I need your help. We want to work more with you, and we need to make this journey together to make Sweden safer, now and in the future” the minister stressed.
Partnering for a secure future
Collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to security are vital for tech companies and the defence sector alike. By embracing these principles, Sweden and Europe can navigate modern security challenges, ensuring a safer tomorrow.
This discussion underscores a collective ambition to not only address current security challenges but also work proactively to prepare for the future. Central to these efforts is the role of startups and scaleups, whose groundbreaking innovations are key to driving Sweden’s technological advancements in defence.
However, this requires an ecosystem that supports innovation and new partnerships, ensuring accessible funding, supportive policies, and platforms that foster cross-sectoral collaborations. The way forward is marked by collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to national and global security.
New funding and collaboration opportunities
Sweden and Europe are responding to the need for defense innovation by introducing several key funding and collaboration opportunities. These efforts aim to engage startups and scaleups, empowering them to bring innovative solutions to the defense sector. By focusing on these companies, the goal is to make the defense industry more dynamic and responsive to evolving security needs.
Some of these initiatives are:
European Defence Fund (EDF)
A European Commission initiative, aimed to support collaborative defence projects. It focuses on funding the development of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) at various stages, from research to market deployment.
NATO Innovation Fund (NIF)
Aimed at enhancing NATO’s innovation ecosystem, NIF supports deep tech innovations in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). It facilitates the commercialization of technologies vital for the Alliance’s security by addressing the funding gap in the market.
DIANA (NATO)
An acceleration program and network of test centers connecting startups with end users, scientists, and integrators to promote the development of dual-use deep tech solutions for NATO.
Säkerhets- och försvarsföretagen (SOFF)
A trade association for the security and defence industry in Sweden. SOFF works to improve market access and trade opportunities for companies within the sector, fostering a competitive business environment.
SME-D
As a network and knowledge hub, SME-D promotes collaboration, competence development, and experience exchange. Its goal is to enhance the competitiveness of its members and ensure the continuous supply of skills in the industry.
Safety in the digital age
Safety in the digital age
Perceived safety is a growing concern in cities across Sweden. As urban populations grow and environments become more complex, these challenges underscore the importance of creating secure, inclusive spaces for all residents. New technologies and models for collaboration offer key solutions to understanding and addressing these issues. This evolving landscape presents a prime opportunity for small tech companies to play a role in developing smart city solutions.
In 2023, the Safety Lab (Trygghetslabbet) served as a platform for municipalities, companies, and researchers to collaborate and explore innovative methods.
Several activities and initiatives took place within the Safety Lab framework and this article highlights two.
IMY pilot measuring public safety
This collaborative pilot investigated grey areas in data protection regulations, aiming to improve public sector efficiency and service while protecting citizen rights and privacy. The project, involving Kista Science City, IMY, IoT Sverige, and the City of Stockholm (Trafikkontoret), utilized LiDAR sensors to assess the effectiveness of safety measures by measuring movement in public spaces.
The “regulatory sandbox” format guides in interpreting and applying data protection regulations and opens doors for small tech companies to navigate complex regulations. This investigative and dialogue-based approach offered valuable learning and sharing opportunities for participating tech companies and stakeholders. The final report facilitates further understanding and serves as a reference for future projects navigating complex technology and legal grey areas.
Forum for urban safety with IoT
A series of workshops, aimed to accelerate learning and problem-solving through collaboration, focusing on leveraging Internet of Things (IoT) technologies to address urban safety concerns with a specific interest in ethics and integrity. These sessions brought together diverse stakeholders to brainstorm, share insights, and pilot innovative solutions directly impacting urban safety and community well-being. Nationellt forum för trygget i stadsrummet
Lucas Uhlén, project leader at Kista Science City, explains: “Our workshops were designed to initiate a testing environment where the focus was on how IoT can enhance the feeling of safety. By bringing together various actors, we sought to enhance our understanding of how innovative solutions can contribute to a safer, more appealing society.”
Uhlén further emphasizes the importance of early legal inclusion: “Engaging with legal experts from the start ensured our initiatives were grounded in respect for privacy, setting the course for this initiative but also setting an example for future projects.”
A model for the future
The Forum’s inclusive and forward-thinking approach complements traditional project methods. Integrating various stakeholders and legal considerations from the outset offers a valuable strategy for responsible and inclusive innovation across different sectors.
The Forum has laid the groundwork for future innovations, demonstrating the importance of collaboration, foresight, and a commitment to ethical principles in the pursuit of public safety.
Opportunities for businesses
The needs-based pilots in the Safety Lab have opened doors for small tech companies to break new ground. By understanding the public sector’s needs, participating in pilots, and actively engaging with stakeholders, companies can unlock valuable opportunities.
- Gain early insight: Gain crucial knowledge about the market framework and stay ahead of the curve by understanding evolving needs.
- Influence the market: Actively participate in pilots to shape future regulations and standards, ensuring your voice is heard in shaping the industry’s direction.
- Drive market growth: Contribute to the overall growth of the IoT and public safety market through your innovative solutions, fostering a safer and more secure future for communities.
Read the report Trygghet-i-stadsrummet to learn more about the projects and how innovative solution are shaping safer urban environment.
The Scale Hub
The Scale Hub
For scaleups with global ambitions
Scale Hub offers exclusive access to a curated network of industry experts in sales strategy, branding, PR, and effective customer communication. We prepare you for our access to market programs in Germany, the UK, and the USA. Each module includes interactive half-day workshops, ensuring your leadership team is equipped with the tools and strategies necessary for sustained growth.
Scale Hub is tailored for founders who have successfully navigated the startup journey and are ready to grow global sales. We specialize in transformative tech companies that redefine industries and contribute to a sustainable future.
Contact
Arash Sangari
arash.sangari@kista.com
Tatjana Choudhary
tatjana.choudhary@kista.com
Access To Experts
Our industry experts empower you with the knowledge, strategies, and tools needed to effectively communicate what you do and why you do it, building strong, successful businesses. We encourage the participation of top management alongside their team members to ensure cohesive learning and onboarding.
Testimonials
Richard Savage, Business Development Specialist – Stream Analyze
"The Kista Scalehub programme came at exactly the right time for us, it allowed us to stand back and re-evaluate our messaging, our pitch, and values at the perfect moment in our growth phase. The ScaleHub opportunity appeared just in time for us to run through such important exercises with the right people. I can recommend it highly to anyone lucky enough to receive an invitation to participate.”
James Campion, CEO - Terasi
"The ScaleHub program opens new horizons for growth by delivering coaching from world-class experts in sales, marketing and branding."
John Dellow, CEO – Manomotion
"Our participation in The ScaleHub program provided us with invaluable insights and strategies for scaling up our operations, along with expert guidance to navigate our pivotal transition. Also, very good project managers from ScaleHub that were really commited and service minded."
Access To Markets
Our market access programs help you to fast-track your market entry by connecting you with potential customers, distributors, and strategic partners to drive your global sales.In order to join those activities, we like to see that you have passed our access to experts program to be prepared in the best way possible to attract customers and partners. If you are interested in joining our access to market program, please book an introduction meeting!
What we are looking for
We focus on tech entrepreneurs who have successfully navigated the early stages of the startup journey and are now focused on scaling their operations. Our primary emphasis is on groundbreaking technologies with the potential to revolutionize industries and societies.
Requirements
The Scale Hub’s is for companies with:
- A team of 10 employees.
- An achieved 20% annual revenue growth over three consecutive years.
- Successfully raised seed capital.
- Registred as a Swedish AB.
We’re always open to exploring potential collaborations and opportunities. If you’re interested in joining or discussing how we can work together or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to book an introductory meeting with Arash Sangari.
Computer and System Architecture meetups
The CaSA meetups: Building bridges in computer and system architecture
The Computer and System Architecture (CaSA) Meetup series has emerged as a key hub for bridging minds in the field. Organized by Jonas Svennebring, Jakob Engblom, and Magnus Karlsson, this initiative is gearing up for its third gathering in Kista this March. The Meetup series stands out not just for its focus on deep technical discussions, but for its commitment to fostering a community spirit where ideas and innovations thrive.
Inspiration and objectives
Jonas Svennebring, Principal Engineer at Intel Corporation and one of the founding members, shared the origins of the CaSA Meetup series:
– The inspiration comes from a popular Linux conference in Paris called Kernel Recipes where a limited number of participants gather in a relaxed setting to talk about tech and eat good food. We liked all aspects of this and thought it would be great to have something similar locally. A smaller, regular event near work seemed perfect for us.
CaSA Meetup is about bringing together like-minded individuals to share knowledge, discuss emerging trends, and, importantly, enjoy good company. Svennebring points out that while the organizers are all employed at Intel, CaSA is a personal initiative driven by a shared passion for technology. The meetups serve as a platform to step out of one’s technological niche and explore the dynamic landscape of innovations within computer and system architecture.
The format
The format of CaSA Meetups is designed to maximize interaction and engagement. Svennebring explains:
– What we have tried so far, and that seems to work very well, is starting with two presentations of about 30 minutes each, followed by a break for networking and snacks. This setup naturally encourages participants to discuss the presentations just witnessed and build upon them. We then rejoin for a Q&A session with the presenters. Having had time to break the ice, participants often engaged in lively discussions. The underlying idea is to help attendees meet, form new connections, and exchange ideas. While presentations are crucial, the discussions they spark are equally significant.
The CaSA Meetups have proven to be an effective platform for lively discussions, with attendees keen to return for more. This enthusiasm underscores the success of the event’s format, which is curated by Jonas and the organizing team. Their focus is on fostering an environment that encourages open dialogue and collaboration among professionals from both industry and academia. By managing the size of the meetups, they ensure each event remains a place for meaningful engagement, preserving the series’ blend of intimacy and interactivity.
The Kista spirit
Choosing Kista as the venue for CaSA Meetups was a natural decision for the organizers. Apart from its accessibility and the organizers’ professional ties to the area, Svennebring highlights Kista’s vibrant tech ecosystem as a key aspect right from the start.
– There was never any doubt that we would go for Kista. There’s so much interesting tech development going on in the area, and we already have strong connections to companies and innovators here. Our collaboration with Kista Science City has been crucial for getting started. Working with Mikaela Färnqvist has been very smooth. It’s also nice to be able to hold the meeting high up in the Kista Science Tower (thanks Vasakronan!). It really adds a special atmosphere to the meetings.
Join CaSA Meetup #3 in March!
On March 13, the CaSA community will meet again, this time to delve into the theme of RISC-V. “We have two really exciting speakers, so it promises to be an engaging session. This area has received a lot of attention in recent years but also presents significant challenges. As always, we look forward to the enjoyable discussions over drinks and snacks that have become the trademark of our meetups!” says Svennebring.
📅 March 13
🕒 17:00 – 21:00
📍 Kista
Are you interested in the cutting edge of computer and system architecture? CaSA Meetup #3 in March is your opportunity to join a community of like-minded individuals who are all about sharing knowledge, sparking innovative discussions, and building connections in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Don’t miss out – Sign up today! >> Computer and Systems Architecture meetup – Kista Science City
Bringing ideas to life in Kista
Do you have an idea for an event or a community initiative that could enrich the Kista ecosystem? Kista Science City offers support to turn your vision into reality. Reach out to us, and let’s make it happen together!
Grundläggande cybersäkerhet - utbildning för små och medelstora företag
Säkra din plats på kostnadsfri utbildning i Cybersäkerhet
När allt fler produkter kopplas upp och verksamheter digitaliseras ökar både företagets sårbarhet som kraven från myndigheter och kunder. Händelser i vår omvärld bidrar till en allt större hotbild mot företag. Vikten av strukturerad och strategisk cybersäkerhet hos små och medelstora företag har aldrig varit större.
Utbildningen Grundläggande cybersäkerhet ger dig en grundläggande förståelse för cybersäkerhet, en djupare förståelse för vissa begrepp och bidrar till stärkt säkerhetsmedvetande och säkerhetskultur.
Det här är till för dig som:
- är anställd i ett litet eller medelstort företag med tillväxtambitioner, och där digitala teknologier är en central del i företagets affärsmodell.
- har grundläggande kunskaper om IT-system.
- vill öka din förståelse för cybersäkerhet.
– Återkommande incidenter och rapporter visar på hur affärskritisk cybersäkerhet är. Tillsammans med flera andra science parks kraftsamlar vi för att hjälpa mindre företag att höja sin kompetens inom området. Nu finns möjlighet att gå en utbildning som kan vara ett första steg för att öka kompetensen och medvetenheten om cybersäkerhet, säger Karin Bengtsson, VD, Kista Science City.
Nya hot, trender och juridik
Biträdande professor Mikael Asplund vid Linköpings universitet kommer att leda kursen och säkerställa att du får en grundläggande förståelse för cybersäkerhet. Målet är att avmystifiera viktiga begrepp och skapa förutsättningar för en stärkt säkerhetskultur och medvetenhet.
Utbildningen kommer att behandla flera centrala teman. Dessa inkluderar cybersäkerhet i en samhällskontext med fokus på historiska sammanhang, nya hot och trender, samhällets sårbarhet, motreaktioner och juridiska aspekter.
Anmäl dig till Grundläggande Cybersäkerhet idag! Utbildningen är kostnadsfri och stänger för anmälan den 4 mars. Begränsat antal platser. så skicka in din ansökan redan idag!.
Mer information hittar du här.
Grundläggande Cybersäkerhet är en del av Sweden Secure Tech Hub som medfinansieras av Europeiska Unionen.
Sweden Secure Tech Hub
Utbildningen är en del av initiativet Sweden Secure Tech Hub där sex Science Parks har gått samman för att skapa erbjudanden kring cybersäkerhet. Utbildningen kommer alltså även att genomföras i Göteborg på Lindholmen Science Park, Blue Science Park i Karlskrona, Ideon Science Park i Lund, Luleå Science Park och Kista Science City.
Utbildning i Grundläggande cybersäkerhet
Utbildning i Grundläggande cybersäkerhet
Bredda din förståelse för cybersäkerhet
I kursen Grundläggande cybersäkerhet får 100 deltagare nationellt en grundläggande förståelse för cybersäkerhet, en djupare förståelse för en del begrepp och lär sig att bidra till att skapa förutsättningar och kunskap för stärkt säkerhetsmedvetande och säkerhetskultur. Kursen ges av Linköpings universitet och leds av biträdande professor Mikael Asplund.
Kursen har tagits fram gemensamt av Linköpings universitet och Linköping Science Park. Kursen ger 3 högskolepoäng och har därmed även examinationsmoment som måste godkännas för att få godkänt på kursen och inrapporterade poäng. Utbildningen är helt kostnadsfri.
Ansök till Grundläggande cybersäkerhet
Ansökan är öppen! Skicka in din ansökan senast 4 mars.
För att delta i utbildningen behöver du godkännande från en chef. När du ansöker dig till kursen anger du kontaktuppgifter till denne så tar Linköpings universitet kontakt med hen. Om du själv har rådighet att bestämma över din medverkan i utbildningen så kan du skriva in dina egna kontaktuppgifter.
Kontakt
Sakarias Strand
sakarias.strand@kista.com
Viktiga datum
Sista ansökningsdag: 4 mars 2024
Antagningsbesked: lämnas efter 10 mars 2024
Workshop 1: 9 april, kl. 9-12
Workshop 2: 23 april, kl. 9-12
Workshop 3: 14 maj, kl. 9-12
Workshop 4: 28 maj, kl. 9-12
Workshopar kommer äga rum i Kista
Inlämningsuppgift klar: 10 juni
Utbildningen behandlar följande teman:
- Cybersäkerhet i en samhällskontext: historiskt sammanhang, nya hot och trender, samhällets sårbarhet, motreaktioner, juridiska aspekter.
- Begrepp och förutsättningar: information, kommunikation, konfidentialitet, riktighet, tillgänglighet, tillgångar, hotmodeller, risk, skyddsåtgärder.
- Riskhantering: definitioner, metoder för att skatta risk, bedömning av hot, ansvar och roller, problem med överdrivna säkerhetsåtgärder.
- Cybersäkerhetskultur: riskmedvetenhet, cybersäkerhet med människor i fokus, incidenthantering.
Kursen ges på svenska men kurslitteratur på engelska kan förekomma.
Sweden Secure Tech Hub
Kursen ges i samarbete med initiativet Sverige Secure Tech Hub. Sweden Secure Tech Hub hjälper små och medelstora teknikföretag att skapa säkrare digitala produkter och lösningar – redan från design- och utvecklingsfasen. Här erbjuds olika resurser och tjänster, från inspiration och kompetensutveckling till konsultstöd, testmöjligheter och hjälp med att hitta finansiering för konkreta utvecklingsinitiativ. Mycket av det hubben erbjuder är helt kostnadsfritt för ditt företag.
Sverige Secure Tech Hub är en nationell innovationshub inom cybersäkerhet i samarbete med sex av Sveriges ledande science parks inom teknik och digitalisering. Linköping Science Park, Lindholmen Science Park (Göteborg), Ideon Science Park (Lund), Kista Science Park (Stockholm), Luleå Science Park och Blue Science Park (Karlskrona).
Om Grundläggande cybersäkerhet
För vem?
Kursen riktar sig till små och medelstora företag med tillväxtambitioner och en verksamhet där digitala teknologier är en bärande del i affärsmodellen. De anställda som går utbildningen ska ha ett intresse och behov av att utveckla sin kunskap kring cybersäkerhet.
Syftet med utbildningen är ge deltagarna en grundläggande förståelse för cybersäkerhet, att avmystifiera en del begrepp, och att bidra till att utveckla förutsättningar och kunskap för stärkt säkerhetsmedvetande och säkerhetskultur.
Kista Science City och partners ansvarar för hur utbildningsplatserna fördelas.
Kursens upplägg
Kursen består av självstudier i kombination med fyra stycken lärarledda workshopar för fördjupad diskussion och utbyte mellan deltagare.
Workshoparna äger rum i Kista
Kursen erbjuds även i Göteborg, Linköping, Lund, Luleå och Karlskrona via städernas egna Science Parks. Du anger i anmälan vilken stad du vill gå kursen i.
Förkunskapskrav
Rekommenderade förkunskaper är grundläggande kunskaper om IT-system.
Lärandemål
Efter avslutad kurs förväntas deltagaren kunna:
- Beskriva hur samhället och enskilda organisationer kan påverkas av cyberangrepp och kunna skilja mellan sannolika och osannolika hot.
- Redogöra för grundläggande begrepp inom cybersäkerhet och riskhantering och relatera dessa till praktiska situationer som kan uppstå i en organisation.
- Utföra enkla riskanalyser och identifiera behov av djupare analys.
- Beskriva förutsättningar för en fungerande cybersäkerhetskultur.
Examination
Utbildningen examineras genom:
- Aktiv närvaro vid schemalagda moment, betygsskala betygsskala U, G (1,5 hp)
- Skriftlig individuell uppgift, betygsskala U, G (1,5 hp)
För godkänt slutbetyg på utbildningen krävs:
- Minst 75% aktiv närvaro vid schemalagda moment samt godkänt genomförande av individuell uppgift.
Betygsskala: Tvågradig skala, U, G
Övrig information
Uppdragsutbildning är en utbildningsform som styrs av förordningen om uppdragsutbildning vid universitet och högskolor (SFS 2002:760). Planering och genomförande av kursen ska utgå från kursplanens formuleringar. Den kursvärdering som ska ingå i varje kurs ska därför behandla frågan om hur kursen överensstämmer med kursplanen. Kursen bedrivs på ett sådant sätt att likvärdiga villkor råder med avseende på kön, könsöverskridande identitet eller uttryck, etnisk tillhörighet, religion eller annan trosuppfattning, funktionsnedsättning, sexuell läggning och ålder. Om det föreligger synnerliga skäl får rektor i särskilt beslut ange förutsättningarna för, och delegera rätten att besluta om, tillfälliga avsteg från denna kursplan.
Utbildningen ges som uppdragsutbildning, vilket innebär att den ges på uppdrag av företag och organisationer (juridiska personer) i syfte att kompetensutveckla personalen. Du kan inte gå kursen som privatperson eller som anställd vid en enskild firma. När du ansöker till utbildningen kommer du att få ange kontaktuppgifter till din närmsta chef som får godkänna din medverkan.
Survey: Help us shape cybersecurity support initiatives for Swedish tech businesses
As a tech professional, you understand the critical role of cybersecurity in safeguarding your company’s digital assets. Now, you have the chance to directly influence the support initiatives that will equip you to create secure products and solutions.
Take just 3 minutes to complete our survey and help us understand your specific cybersecurity needs and challenges.
The survey is a part of the research conducted by Sweden Secure Tech Hub, an initiative that creates activities and offerings in the field of cybersecurity for small and medium-sized tech companies.
By responding to the survey, you help us help you. The input will serve as the foundation for the types of investments we, as Science Park, need to make to support your company.
Sweden Secure Tech Hub will offer a variety of resources and services, ranging from lectures, webinars, expert assistance, testing opportunities, and help in finding the necessary funding for planned development initiatives. Some of these activities are already underway, such as open meetings within the Cyberly network, where you can gain inspiration and support.
Sweden Secure Tech Hub is a national innovation hub in the field of cybersecurity and is a collaboration between six of Sweden’s leading Science Parks: Linköping Science Park, Lindholmen Science Park (Gothenburg), Ideon Science Park (Lund), Kista Science Park (Stockholm), Luleå Science Park, and Blue Science Park (Karlskrona).
Your voice matters. By completing the survey, you’re actively shaping the future of cybersecurity for Swedish tech companies. Together, we can create a secure and thriving tech ecosystem that empowers innovation and growth.
Sweden ICT, the organization behind Sweden Secure Tech Hub, is a collaboration between six of Sweden’s leading science parks in tech and digitalization: Linköping Science Park, Lindholmen Science Park (Västsverige), Ideon Science Park (Lund), Kista Science City (Stockholm), Luleå Science Park, and Blue Science Park (Karlskrona). Together, we represent an ecosystem with over 2,400 companies and 59,000 employees.
Sweden Secure Tech Hub has been designated by the EU as a European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH) and has been tasked with supporting and strengthening companies and society in their secure digitalization efforts.
The work is funded by the European Regional Development Fund, Tillväxtverket, and Region Blekinge, in collaboration with the participating partners.
If you want to learn how to take part of upcoming activities, please contact:
Karin Bengtsson, CEO, Kista Science City
Email: karin.bengtsson@kista.com
Emma Sturesson, Project Manager, Blue Science Park
Email: emma.sturesson@bluesciencepark.se
Applied Autonomy establishes Swedish hub
Applied Autonomy establishes Swedish hub
Applied Autonomy, known for innovative work in autonomous transportation, has chosen Kista as a strategic hub for their Swedish operations. This decision marks an important step in the Norwegian company’s expansion and commitment to grow within the Swedish market.
Swedish base
Choosing Kista as a Swedish hub reflects Applied Autonomy’s commitment to being closer to key partners and to becoming part of the dynamic tech landscape in the area. CEO Olov Medland shares his perspective on this strategic decision:
– Kista’s unique combination of technological expertise and collaborative culture made it an ideal choice for us. We are excited about being part of this tech community, contributing to and benefiting from the synergies it offers.
Applied Autonomy is positioned to play a significant role in the evolving landscape of urban transport in Stockholm and Sweden. The company is enthusiastic about sharing its insights and experiences in autonomous transport and collaborating with other companies and innovators in this field. “The possibilities are endless, and we’re eager to explore them,” says Medland.
5G Ride
Applied Autonomy has recently joined the 5G Ride project. Central to their contribution is the xFlow® platform, an innovative solution that ensures a seamless link between vehicles, operators, and end-users, thereby enabling safe and efficient transport. Medland emphasizes the importance of this project:
– Joining 5G Ride was a natural decision for us. The project aligns perfectly with our capabilities, including xFlow®, and our commitment to shaping the future of autonomous transportation. Our participation in this innovative project is an excellent opportunity to demonstrate how our technology can be integrated into existing urban transport systems, enhancing safety, efficiency, and overall user experience.
Cross-border dialogue on autonomous public transport
In November 2023, the 5G Ride project partners from Ericsson, RISE, & Kista Science City, in collaboration with Drive Sweden Policy Lab, Trafikverket, and Transportstyrelsen visited Stavanger, Norway, to observe a full-scale autonomous bus in a real urban setting. This visit allowed the teams to witness the operation of a self-driving, full-scale bus navigating complex urban conditions, including traffic lights, roundabouts, lane changes, and a tunnel, at speeds of up to 40 km/h.
Observations from Stavanger
The primary objective of the Norway trip was to discuss and understand the challenges and opportunities of advanced pilot projects in autonomous public transport. The discussions highlighted the importance of close collaboration between different stakeholders – including tech developers, public transport authorities, and regulatory entities – to drive progress in this complex field. This approach is crucial for combining expertise, sharing insights, and aligning efforts towards common goals in autonomous transportation. Additionally, local Norwegian partners emphasized the value of continual development, focusing on real-world testing of these systems to enhance safety and efficiency in urban mobility.
A key topic during the Stavanger visit was the comparison of the regulatory environments for autonomous vehicle testing in Sweden and Norway. Each country’s approach to regulations and funding for research projects has significant affect for the development of autonomous transport solutions. This highlighted the importance of adaptable regulatory frameworks in supporting advancement and innovation within this field.
Applied Autonomy
The visit to Norway was hosted by Applied Autonomy, a new partner in the 5G Ride project. As a company specializing in software solutions for autonomous transportation, Applied Autonomy brings crucial expertise to the project. Their involvement is expected to enhance the project’s capabilities, particularly in terms of scalable and adaptable autonomous solutions. This partnership marks a big step in the collaborative effort to develop and implement advanced autonomous transport systems.
In addition to Applied Autonomy, the Norway visit saw participation from several organizations, including Adastec, Vy, and Kolumbus, along with representation from Statens vegvesen. Each of these organizations contributed to the success of this trip, bringing unique perspectives and expertise to the discussions and demonstrations.
Future Directions
Looking ahead, the 5G Ride project plans for new demo days and test with autonomous vehicles in Stockholm in 2024. As the project enters its next phase, the project remains committed to leveraging international learnings and local expertise to revolutionize urban mobility. The combined efforts are key in our journey towards a more connected and sustainable future in public transportation.
Internship opportunities
Internship opportunities
The collaboration between academia and industry creates a rich environment for learning and innovation. As 2024 approaches, many ocompanies and organizations in Kista are welcoming interns across a variety of technological fields. These internships provide students with the opportunity to work with experienced professionals, apply their academic knowledge in practical settings, and contribute to meaningful projects. This is an ideal chance for students from diverse backgrounds to gain valuable experience and advance their academic and professional journeys.
Explore these opportunities and find a project that aligns with your interests and career goals:
RISE Research Institute of Sweden
At RISE, interns can delve into a range of projects within the realm of the Internet of Things (IoT) and big data analysis. From exploring the security of ultra-efficient UWB networks to unlocking the future of energy-efficient IoT and analyzing nationwide cellular network traffic, RISE offers a platform for interns to engage with key technological advancements.
For detailed information on all available projects, visit RISE’s internship page.
PandionAI
PandionAI invites interns to contribute to the development of AlertSat’s geospatial support. This project offers an opportunity to work on enhancing the user interface and data flow within the AlertSat Portal, a crucial tool for decision-making based on satellite data.
Munters
Munters is seeking a Master Thesis Student within its Controls & Connectivity team. The selected candidate will work on creating sustainable climate solutions, focusing on areas like control systems, automation, and IoT.
FOI (Swedish Defence Research Agency)
FOI in Kista is looking for interns to work on diverse projects ranging from virtual gamma spectroscopic labs to defense analysis and underwater network localization. With a broad spectrum of opportunities in areas like software development, data analysis, and policy research, FOI’s internships meet the needs of a variety of interests and skills.
For detailed information on all available projects, visit FOI’s internship offerings for 2024
Excillum
Excillum offers three distinctive Master’s thesis projects. These include exploring thermal drifts in x-ray sources, understanding the limits of diamond endurance under electron beams, and developing high-resolution x-ray laminography for imaging layered components. Each project at Excillum is a blend of practical experimentation and theoretical exploration.