Deadline: 25-Mar-2026
ShiftSweden, under the Impact Innovation initiative, is funding projects that create sustainable, resource-efficient, and inclusive living environments across Sweden. The call supports innovation and lab coordination projects in three thematic areas—flexible sustainable building, large transformation projects, and transport-efficient neighborhoods—with grants ranging from 3 to 6 million SEK and a total budget of 85 million SEK.
What is ShiftSweden’s Impact Innovation Call?
ShiftSweden is driving Sweden’s transition toward fossil-free, resource-conscious societies through the Impact Innovation initiative. This call for proposals invites projects that develop attractive, accessible, and sustainable living environments for all citizens. It focuses on practical innovation in urban planning, mobility, and sustainable development.
Thematic Transition Labs
The call targets three key areas:
-
Building sustainably and flexibly for the future: Projects that create adaptable, energy-efficient, and low-resource buildings.
-
Harnessing momentum in large transformation projects: Initiatives that contribute to large-scale urban and societal transitions.
-
Transport-efficient and vibrant neighborhoods: Solutions that enhance mobility, reduce emissions, and create lively urban areas.
Funding Overview
-
Exploratory innovation projects: Up to 3 million SEK
-
Innovation projects (testing/scaling solutions): Up to 6 million SEK
-
Lab-based projects: Up to 3.5 million SEK
-
Total budget: 85 million SEK
Funding is allocated based on project type and scope, supporting both pilot innovations and scalable solutions.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible participants include:
-
Public sector organisations
-
Businesses and startups
-
Civil society actors
-
Research organisations
Innovation projects must include at least one actor demonstrating a clear need and benefit, ensuring the project addresses real-world demand.
Why This Call Matters
-
Accelerates sustainable urban transformation: Supports practical solutions for Sweden’s green transition.
-
Promotes collaboration: Encourages public, private, and civil society actors to co-create innovative solutions.
-
Supports resource efficiency: Projects focus on sustainable building, mobility, and neighborhood planning.
-
Drives inclusive design: Ensures living environments are attractive, accessible, and functional for all citizens.
How to Apply
Step 1: Identify the type of project – exploratory innovation, scaling innovation, or lab-based coordination.
Step 2: Choose a relevant thematic transition lab.
Step 3: Prepare project proposal including objectives, expected impact, budget, and collaboration plan.
Step 4: Submit your application through the official Impact Innovation portal during the active call period.
Step 5: Funding decisions are made based on project relevance, innovation potential, and real-world applicability.
Step 6: Implement and report outcomes, including lessons learned, impact on urban planning or mobility, and scalability potential.
Tips for a Successful Application
-
Clearly demonstrate the real-world need for your project.
-
Include a diverse collaboration team from multiple sectors.
-
Align your proposal with one of the three transition labs.
-
Emphasize scalability and measurable impact.
-
Ensure budget and milestones are realistic and well-defined.
FAQs – ShiftSweden Impact Innovation
1. Who can apply for this funding?
Public, private, civil society, and research organisations based in Sweden can apply.
2. What types of projects are supported?
Exploratory innovations, projects that test or scale solutions, and lab coordination initiatives focused on sustainable living environments.
3. What is the maximum funding available?
Funding ranges from 3 million SEK to 6 million SEK depending on project type.
4. Do projects need to demonstrate practical impact?
Yes. At least one actor in the project must demonstrate a clear need and benefit from the outcomes.
5. How is the total budget distributed?
The total budget of 85 million SEK is allocated across the different project types and transition labs.
6. Are international organisations eligible?
The call focuses on Swedish actors, but collaborative international partnerships may be considered if aligned with project objectives.
7. When will funded projects be expected to deliver results?
Projects are expected to implement and report outcomes in alignment with agreed milestones and timelines set by the funding body.
Conclusion
ShiftSweden’s Impact Innovation call offers a strategic opportunity to develop sustainable, inclusive, and resource-efficient living environments across Sweden. By targeting urban planning, mobility, and large transformation projects, it encourages collaboration, accelerates practical innovation, and strengthens Sweden’s transition toward a fossil-free and resource-conscious society.
For more information, visit Vinnova.