Innovation and Defence: NATO Innovation Fund in Kista
How can innovation help build resilience in an unpredictable world? For the NATO Innovation Fund (NIF), the answer lies in cross-sectoral collaboration—connecting the brightest minds in tech with defence stakeholders to tackle evolving security challenges. This mission brought NIF to Kista Science City where some of the country’s leading deep-tech companies took center stage.
NIF: Investing in resilience
The NATO Innovation Fund is the world’s first multi-sovereign venture capital fund, backed by 24 member nations and equipped with €1 billion to deploy over 15 years. Its mission: to support early-stage European tech companies developing solutions that strengthen resilience and security across the Alliance.
Sweden, NATO’s newest member state and home to one of Europe’s most established venture ecosystems, was a natural choice for this engagement. “Sweden has had great success in innovation and scaling companies globally,” said Patrick Schneider-Sikorsky of NATO Innovation Fund. “The frameworks here make it an exceptional place to do business. We look to invest in early-stage, breakthrough solutions, and Sweden offers outstanding potential for innovation.”
Patrick Schneider-Sakorzky, Partner at Nato Innovation Fund
Pioneering tech on display
Kista was one of only two stops on NIF’s Sweden tour, chosen for its strong ecosystem of deep-tech companies. The visit was part of their broader strategy to identify and invest in dual-use technologies—solutions with applications in both civilian and defence settings. These technologies are key to addressing modern security challenges, from safeguarding critical infrastructure to enhancing resilience against cyber threats.
During the event, 10 Stockholm-based companies presented their solutions. These included technologies in autonomous systems, energy solutions, advanced materials, and next-gen communication technologies. Here’s how three of these companies are driving innovation that could support security and resilience efforts:
Ovzon: Resilient satellite communications
Ovzon presented its advanced satellite system, designed to ensure secure communication in contested environments and enabling multi-domain operations. With features like GPS-denial resilience, ultra-mobile terminals and full sovereign control, Ovzon’s technology supports NATO Innovation Fund’s mission to enhance resilience and build next-generation communication systems. “Secure, reliable communication is critical for defence operations, and our technology addresses those needs, already today in the most demanding environments,” said Per Wahlberg, Deputy CEO of Ovzon.
Papershell: Next-gen lightweight materials
Papershell introduced its biogenic material that is lighter than aluminum, stronger than plastic, and 100% fossil-free. With automated, flexible production in Sweden, it can rapidly scale for applications across industries, ranging from automotive to drone manufacturing. The company’s innovation aligns with NATO Innovation Fund’s focus
on resource sustainment for defence and civil needs. “By using locally sourced input materials, we create a 100% biogenic, fossil carbon-free alternative—proving that sustainability and resilience go hand in hand,” said Anders Breitholtz, CEO of Papershell.
As the company scales production, its goal is to provide one of the market’s cheapest load-bearing materials, making it a cost-effective alternative to traditional composites. This would help member nations reduce reliance on foreign-subsidized materials while significantly cutting emissions.
TeraSi: Compact and secure connectivity solutions
TeraSi showcased its RF modules, capable of securely transferring large volumes of data, even on moving platforms like drones. The compact design and efficiency of this technology directly support NATO Innovation Fund’s goal of advancing secure, deployable communication systems for defence operations. “Connectivity is vital for protecting critical assets, and our solutions make it possible to securely transfer data across domains,” said James Campion, CEO of TeraSi.
With ambitions to enable seamless data transfer across air, space, and terrestrial networks, TeraSi is paving the way for fiber-like connectivity in dynamic environments. Read Dagens Industri’s interview with CEO James Campion to learn more about the company’s advancements (subscription required).
Key takeaways from the event
NATO Innovation Fund’s visit to Kista Science City underscored an important shift: private sector innovation is now a driving force in modern security and defence. As security threats evolve, so must the solutions, and effective collaboration between innovators and defence stakeholders is essential to staying ahead. Here’s what we know:
- Sweden’s NATO membership is unlocking opportunities for its tech industry. Since joining the Alliance in March 2024, Swedish tech companies have new pathways to contribute on a global scale—not only in security and defence but also in strengthening international partnerships and knowledge-sharing across borders.
- Bridging private-sector innovation with defence needs is essential. As security challenges evolve, so does the need for cutting-edge solutions—many of which now emerge from the private sector. Stronger collaboration between startups, investors, and defence stakeholders ensures that these innovations are developed, scaled, and deployed where they can have the greatest impact.
- Adaptable technology is key to building resilience in an unpredictable world. Modern security threats are increasingly complex, spanning cyber risks, physical vulnerabilities, and shifting global tensions. To stay ahead, defence and security systems must integrate flexible, dual-use technologies that can evolve alongside emerging challenges.
Our commitment
Sweden’s innovation ecosystem is becoming increasingly connected to the international defence landscape, and Kista Science City is part of that process. We work closely with tech innovators, investors, and global defence stakeholders—helping companies navigate regulatory landscapes, secure funding, and build strategic partnerships that drive meaningful impact.
Do you want to get involved? Reach out to sakarias.strand@kista.com to explore opportunities for collaboration!
Strengthen your cybersecurity skills
Strengthen your cybersecurity skills
If digitalization is a central part of your business model, increasing your cybersecurity expertise is crucial for growth. Our course Basic Cybersecurity provides a practical understanding of cybersecurity, strengthening both your security awareness and strategic approach to threats.
The course is designed for small and medium-sized enterprises, focusing on practical measures and solutions that can be implemented immediately. You will gain tools to identify and prevent potential risks, as well as effectively manage incidents and minimize costly security breaches.
Enhancing your cybersecurity not only protects your business but also helps attract new customers, meet regulatory requirements, and build trust in your operations. The course also offers a valuable opportunity to connect with other companies facing similar challenges.
Developed by Linköping University and Linköping Science Park, the course runs in April and May 2025 and consists of four instructor-led workshops combined with self-study.
The course is held in Swedish.
As co-organizer, Kista Science City is now offering a limited number of free spots for this popular course.
Secure a strategic market advantage and strengthen your security culture – Register by 5 March, 2025!
Why take this course
After completing the course, you will be able to:
- Describe how cyberattacks can impact society and individual organizations
- Explain key cybersecurity and risk management concepts
- Conduct basic risk assessments and identify areas requiring deeper analysis
- Understand and describe the foundations of a strong cybersecurity culture
How the course is build
- Cybersecurity in a societal context (history, threats, regulations)
- Fundamental concepts (risks, threat models, protective measures)
- Risk management (methods, roles, responsibilities)
- Cybersecurity culture (human factors, incident response)
Who this course is for
Small and medium-sized tech companies looking to strengthen their cybersecurity are welcome to sign up employees. Participants must be registered by their employer.
Please note that the course is not open to individuals or sole proprietors (enskilda firmor)
The application deadline is 5 March, 2025, and admission results will be sent out after 10 March.
Dates
Workshop 1: 8 April 2025, 9:00–12:00
Workshop 2: 28 April 2025, 9:00–12:00
Workshop 3: 14 May 2025, 9:00–12:00
Workshop 4: 28 May 2025, 9:00–12:00
The course takes place on-site at Kista Science City.
Course Format
Structure: Four instructor-led workshops + self-study
Participants will receive 3 ECTS credits (högskolepoäng) after completing the following parts:
Active participation: 1.5 ECTS (minimum 75% attendance at workshops)
Written individual assignment: 1.5 ECTS (graded pass/fail)
Organizers
The course is organized by Linköping University and Linköping Science Park (Sweden Secure Tech Hub), with Kista Science City and several other Science Parks in Sweden as co-organizers.
Course Instructor
Associate Professor Mikael Asplund, Linköping University
Questions?
For inquiries about available spots or other details, please contact Sakarias Strand, Kista Science City (sakarias.strand@kista.com)
This course is part of the Sweden ICT initiative, aimed at strengthening Sweden’s position as a leading ICT nation. The initiative focuses on attracting talent, supporting innovation, and sharing knowledge in AI, Cybersecurity, and IoT.
Future-proofing Sweden’s cyber defenses
Future-proofing Sweden’s cyber defenses
As Sweden’s digital infrastructure grows, so do the risks to many critical services. From hospitals and banks to energy grids and transportation systems, cyber threats targeting essential systems are on the rise, posing significant dangers to national security. Yet, despite these risks, some experts argue that Sweden’s current cybersecurity policies are insufficient, leaving many organizations vulnerable.
In a recent article, Kista-based cybersecurity researcher Gazmend Huskaj underscores that many Swedish organizations, large and small, are underprepared for digital threats. Without solid security strategies and frameworks in place, these organizations could face major disruptions from cyberattacks, putting critical services at risk. And these risks are not just theoretical—recent incidents in other countries have shown how devastating such attacks can be.
What steps can Sweden take?
Huskaj points to the importance of a coordinated national response. Strengthening Sweden’s cybersecurity will require more than government action alone. It will involve collaboration between the public and private sectors, as well as academia, to create open channels for sharing knowledge and responding swiftly to emerging threats. Key areas to address include:
- Cross-sector collaboration: Open communication between industries, government, and academia is critical to building a robust defense.
- A clear national strategy: Defining Sweden’s approach to both defensive and offensive cybersecurity measures is crucial for long-term security.
- Preparedness at all levels: Ensuring that all organizations, large or small, have strong cybersecurity measures is vital for safeguarding critical infrastructure.
In today’s digital world, a combined cybersecurity effort is essential for protecting Sweden’s future. Kista is becoming a national powerhouse for cybersecurity, where a growing node of companies, actors, and initiatives wants to raise the cybersecurity awareness of Swedish businesses and public sector. RISE Cybersecurity center is leading the way, but also supported by the strong research at the Department of Department of Computer and Systems Sciences at Stockholm University, FOI, and several businesses with competence in the field.
Do you want to get involved in Kista Science City’s cybersecurity initiatives? Reach out tosakarias.strand@kista.com today!
Request for Interest cyber test and validation
Insights from our cybersecurity course
SMEs and digital threats
In today’s digital age, cyber threats are a constant concern for businesses of all sizes. However, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can be particularly vulnerable. A recent report by the European DIGITAL SME Alliance found a 57% increase in cyberattacks across Europe, with many targeting smaller firms that may lack both advanced security measures and expertise.
This is where the recently concluded “Basic Cybersecurity” course aimed to make a difference. Offered as part of Sweden Secure Tech Hub, the course empowered participants with the knowledge and skills to navigate the evolving cybersecurity landscape. Throughout the spring, attendees gained a comprehensive understanding of core concepts through workshops, self-study modules, and practical exercises. This included threat identification, security measures, and risk management strategies, helping participants to develop effective defenses for their businesses.
The Cybersecurity course was led by deputy professor of Linköping University, Mikael Asplund, and Sakarias Strand of Kista Science City. Sakarias reflected on the course’s impact and the enthusiasm he saw among participants.
“Participants showed a great eagerness to learn and engaged actively in discussions and exercises. Many of them, who did not primarily work with cybersecurity, were able to connect theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. This demonstrates the vital role of cybersecurity training for SMEs, as it links awareness and practice. As cyber risks continue to grow, educational initiatives like this one will be increasingly important in building resilient and secure business environments.”
Reflections from participants
Sadhana Pettersson, Sales Manager at Bouvet, and Jennyca Imner Nicolau, Business support specialist at Abbott Medical are two of the participants. We spoke to them about their experiences and insights gained during the spring.
What motivated you to participate?
Sadhana: “In the IT sector, there’s often a general lack of cybersecurity awareness. When working with clients in consulting services, it can be challenging to navigate situations where the understanding level is lower. This course seemed like a perfect opportunity to bridge that gap.”
Jennyca: “I wanted more insight into cybersecurity in general, but also saw an opportunity to meet others and hear about their needs and challenges. The fact that the course included in-person sessions and offered university credits made it particularly appealing to me.”
How did the course impact your understanding of cybersecurity?
Sadhana: “I think that it provided a deeper understanding of cybersecurity’s complexity. It opened my eyes to how it’s not just an IT issue, but a business concern as well.”
Jennyca: “The course provided tools to identify weak links in process chains, which I can apply in upcoming projects. I now realize that everyone has a responsibility to protect their organization from cyberattacks.”
Was there a particular activity or discussion that stood out to you?
Sadhana: “The threat modeling exercise was very engaging. Although it was a new concept for me, it was incredibly valuable. Learning how threat modeling can be combined with risk analysis provided a powerful tool that I can definitely utilize in the future.”
Jennyca: “The small group discussions were particularly interesting to me. Hearing about other people’s experiences added a lot of value beyond the lectures. Also, reviewing materials before the lectures made the sessions smoother, allowing us to quickly dive into these group discussions. Sakarias was an excellent moderator, guiding discussions in an inclusive and easy-going manner, which was crucial given the varied levels of knowledge among participants.”
Sweden Secure Tech
Sweden Secure Tech Hub is a national collaboration between six of Sweden’s leading science parks focused on enhancing cybersecurity for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The hub provides a variety of resources, including educational courses and support for developing secure digital products. By participating in the hub’s programs, businesses can access the latest cybersecurity knowledge and tools, helping them to protect their digital assets and comply with international standards.
For more information and to sign up for upcoming courses, reach out to sakarias.strand@kista.com.
AI to detect toxic online communication
Using AI to detect toxic online communication
Safeguarding our communities relies increasingly on our capacity to monitor and interpret the vast data streams across social networks. Lisa Kaati, a docent at Stockholm University, stands out as one of the leaders in this domain. Her work involves identifying patterns of toxic online communication to preempt acts of violence and enhance public safety.
Kaati’s methodology combines sophisticated data science techniques with sharp analytical thinking to uncover complex behavioral patterns that often go unnoticed. Using AI, she filters through enormous datasets to pinpoint potential threats—a task nearly impossible for human analysts alone. However, Kaati emphasizes that AI is a tool to aid human analysts, not replace them. This balanced approach ensures that decisions about potential threats remain nuanced and considerate of complex human behaviors.
Practical impact and innovations
Kaati’s research yields tangible benefits, shaping protocols that may prevent crises. In response to the growing demand for practical solutions based on her research, Kaati co-founded the Mind Intelligence Lab. This initiative turns theoretical insights into practical tools that law enforcement and educational institutions use to identify and mitigate risks. Kaati’s work exemplifies the potential of AI in transforming security practices. Her research contributes significantly to the development of new strategies for managing public safety in urban environments.
Integrating her findings into practical applications showcases how theoretical research can lead to tangible improvements in community resilience.
Looking ahead
As digital communication evolves, the need for alert monitoring of online spaces becomes increasingly important. Researchers like Lisa Kaati are crucial in developing technologies that enhance societal safety. Their work addresses current challenges and anticipates future security needs, providing the actors in our ecosystem with the tools and knowledge needed to adapt and thrive in a changing digital landscape.
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
Cybersecurity in medtech: an analysis of industry risks
Cybersecurity risks for small and medium-sized medical technology companies
A recent study shows that small and medium-sized medical technology companies are particularly vulnerable to cyberattacks.
The study, part of a strategic cybersecurity development program for SMEs in Stockholm, showed that many SME generally have low risk awareness and lack a structured cybersecurity strategy.
This is a worrying development, as cyberattacks on medical technology companies can have significant consequences for the company itself, as well as for customers and suppliers.
The study also shows that companies are particularly vulnerable to cyberattacks because they often handle sensitive patient information.
Download the report to learn more about the risks and how to protect your company.
National cybersecurity innovation hub to support SME
Swedish Secure Tech Hub is a newly launched national cybersecurity innovation hub to help SMEs in creating safer digital products and solutions. We offer a variety of resources and services, from inspiration and skills development to consulting support, testing opportunities and help finding funding for concrete development initiatives.
A national innovation hub to enhance cybersecurity
SMEs are the backbone of the Swedish economy but are also the most vulnerable to cyberattacks. The Sweden Secure Tech Hub aims to help SMEs of all sizes improve their cybersecurity posture, whether they are just getting started or looking to take their cybersecurity to the next level.
The hub will offer a variety of activities to help SMEs, including needs assessments, networking events, training, seminars, and technical, financial, and legal expert assistance. The goal is to help SMEs develop secure products and services, sharpen their competitiveness, and protect their data and systems from cyberattacks.
Karin Bengtsson, CEO of Kista Science City, highlights the importance of cybersecurity in the digital age:
“To succeed in digitization, it is important that companies have a good understanding of cybersecurity risks. We offer an opportunity for companies to increase their knowledge and ability to protect themselves from cyberattacks.”
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
Sweden Secure Tech Hub
Sweden Secure Tech Hub
A national innovation hub for cybersecurity
Sweden Secure Tech Hub is a national alliance of science parks with the mission to improve secure digitalization in Sweden.
By joining forces we aim to lower the threshold for startups, scaleups and SME’s to approach and implement cybersecurity measures and strategies.
Through our science parks Sweden Secure Tech Hub will offer a full range of services to help companies build cybersecurity readiness without investing more than their own time. Beyond the standardized program for SMEs each science park has something unique to offer depending on the needs of the companies.
The key objective for Sweden Secure Tech Hub is to increase the knowledge and understanding of how cyberattacks and cybersecurity can affect business progress in both negative and positive ways. The hub will support and work with companies to achieve new internal processes, policies, guiding principles for future development and tools to test and validate new products and services.
Businesses enrolled in the hubs program are welcome to partake in physical and digital seminars, networking meet-ups, educational modules as well as off the shelf services within finance, tech and law.
The initiative is funded by the European Union through the program for European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH), Tillväxtverket, regional funding and the participating science parks.
