Connect Sverige does not distinguish between different areas of business. They offers two different accelerator programs called Språngbrädan and FöretagsAcceleratorn. Each accelerator focuses on different aspects of business development. 

Språngbrädan is a five-step accelerator, taking startups from early business plan to first capital. FöretagsAcceleratorn® aims at SME's within a typical growth fase and beyond startup.

Experience

Founded in San Diego, California in 1986, Connect is a well-established global organization. The program was in 1998 brought to Sweden by the Royal Academy of Engineering Science. Connects Sweden now resides over a network of 450 business angels. Each year they arrange more than a hundred different events all over the country.

How much do they invest?

Connect Sverige target volumes between 250KSEK - 5MSEK for each investment.

They also draw on their network of investors to find the right match between startup and capital. Functioning as a meeting place for entrepreneurs, business experts, researchers, and investors, Connect also contributes with experience, skills, and valuable connections.

How do they work?

When you apply for the program, you will be invited to an interview. Here your startup will be reviewed in accordance with the following five criteria: High growth potential, driven entrepreneur, thorough business plan, a high will to growth, and uniqueness.

This makes a difference to them

During the program, your startup will continuously receive guidance and mentoring aiming to prepare you for applying for private funding. The most important factor is that you are ready to learn and grow as a startup.

Key People

Gunnar Fernström – Chairman of the Board
Gunnar became Chairman in 2016. He is also Partner at Innovation at InnovationsKapital. He is an active Chairman and Board Member in several businesses. Gunnar holds an MSc in Chemical Engineering from Chalmers University of Technology.
LinkedIn

Karl Malmström - CEO Region West
Karl has been in his position since 2010. He is also CEO in the venture company Connect2Capital. He has more than 15 years of experience from high growth companies and experience from leading positions in sales- and marketing, administration (CFO), executive management and boards.
LinkedIn

Startups they funded

TaskRunner, Toontrack, Sidenkompaniet, Grekiska Kolgrillsbaren