SustainGov Initiative Launches System Workshop to Reform Public Sector in Sweden

Deadline: 14-Apr-2026

SustainGov, under Impact Innovation, seeks to transform the public sector by 2035 to deliver health, well-being, and sustainability for all residents. The Systemverkstan initiative supports this mission by funding collaborative projects that develop and test system innovation methods, enabling proactive, inclusive, and long-term impact in public services. Funding of up to 10 million SEK is available for three-year projects starting June 16, 2026.

About SustainGov

SustainGov is a mission-driven program aiming to redefine public sector approaches to address complex societal challenges. Its vision focuses on:

• Promoting equitable health and well-being for all residents

• Ensuring sustainable food supply systems

• Fostering an inclusive society

• Redefining the social contract between residents and the public sector

Core Transformation Goals

1. Proactive Public Sector – Shift from reactive problem-solving to anticipatory and preventive strategies

2. Individual-Centered Services – Move from rigid organizational processes to personalized interactions

3. Impact-Focused Assessment – Replace short-term indicator-driven evaluations with long-term societal impact measurements

4. Co-Creation Mindset – Treat individuals as active partners in public service solutions rather than passive recipients

About Systemverkstan

Systemverkstan is the practical implementation arm of SustainGov, providing tools, frameworks, and support to funded projects to maximize impact.

Key Features

• Portfolio Management: Currently supports 30 active projects, with more planned annually

• Method Development: Designs, tests, and refines system innovation methodologies

• Impact Maximization: Ensures alignment with SustainGov’s mission for systemic transformation

• Knowledge Sharing: Disseminates results and solutions to strengthen public sector capacity

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants must form collaborative consortia including at least three partners:

• Public sector actors

• Businesses and industry partners

• Civil society organizations

• Research and academic institutions

Requirements:

• At least one partner capable of managing long-term solutions

• Projects must align with SustainGov’s health, well-being, sustainability, and system innovation objectives

Funding & Duration

• Maximum funding: 10 million SEK

• Initial funding call: 7.5 million SEK, with remaining allocation requested in early 2027

• Project duration: 3 years

• Start date: June 16, 2026

• Funds are intended to cover system innovation support measures, project implementation, and dissemination of results

How It Works – Application & Implementation

1. Form a Collaborative Consortium – Include at least three partners, with one able to oversee long-term implementation

2. Design System Innovation Project – Align project goals with SustainGov’s mission

3. Submit Application – Provide project description, budget, and evidence of collaboration capacity

4. Funding Allocation – Initial 7.5 million SEK allocated; remainder requested in early 2027

5. Project Implementation – Use Systemverkstan frameworks to develop, test, and refine innovative solutions

6. Knowledge Dissemination – Share results and tools to enhance public sector capabilities

Common Mistakes & Tips

• Incomplete Consortium: Ensure at least three partners are included, with clear roles

• Misaligned Objectives: Projects must clearly target system innovation, public health, sustainability, or well-being

• Lack of Long-Term Capacity: At least one partner must demonstrate ability to manage long-term solutions

• Insufficient Documentation: Include detailed budgets, project timelines, and evidence of collaboration

FAQs – SustainGov & Systemverkstan

1. Who can apply for funding?
Consortia from public sector, business, civil society, and research organizations with at least three partners.

2. What is the project duration?
Projects must run for three years, starting June 16, 2026.

3. How much funding is available?
Up to 10 million SEK per project, with 7.5 million SEK allocated initially.

4. What types of projects are supported?
Collaborative projects that develop, test, and implement system innovations promoting health, well-being, sustainability, and inclusive public services.

5. Are international partners eligible?
International partners may participate if part of a consortium, but at least one lead partner must have the capacity for long-term public sector impact.

6. What support does Systemverkstan provide?
Systemverkstan provides tools, frameworks, and guidance to ensure projects maximize systemic impact and knowledge sharing.

7. How are results disseminated?
Through Systemverkstan channels, reports, and stakeholder engagement to strengthen public sector innovation capabilities.

Conclusion

The SustainGov program, supported by Systemverkstan, offers a transformative funding opportunity for collaborative projects that aim to reinvent the public sector. By promoting proactive, individualized, and co-created solutions, the initiative seeks to achieve holistic societal impact in health, well-being, and sustainability by 2035. Applicants with strong collaborative capacity and system innovation experience are encouraged to apply and contribute to Sweden’s future-ready public sector.

For more information, visit Vinnova.