On 1 July 2025, a new long-term project will commence at Dalarna University. The aim is to build a strong research environment that will develop new knowledge, technology, and working methods in direct contact with industry. A further aim is to help small and medium-sized industrial companies become more sustainable, innovative, and competitive. The project forms part of a larger initiative for industrial transformation in the northern parts of central Sweden and will be run in collaboration with several stakeholders and companies throughout Dalarna.
– The industrial companies in our region are world leaders when it comes to the transition to more sustainable products and methods of production. Our ambition is for Dalarna University to be a driving force in this development, says Joakim Storck, Head of the School of Information and Engineering.
Research for the real world
The project aims to contribute to solutions to some of industry’s most pressing challenges, such as the transition to a green, circular economy; increased digitalisation and automation; and the need for more sustainable and resilient operations.
An important element is the establishment of a test bed, which is a lab environment where new ideas and technologies can be tested and developed in close collaboration with companies.
The initiative is also a long-term investment in regional expertise. Through the recruitment of new researchers, the development of doctoral projects, and strengthened interdisciplinary collaboration within the university, a research environment with cutting-edge expertise in sustainable industry and circular manufacturing will be established.
– This is about preparing both academia and industry for the future. This project will enable us to strengthen our research and education while also contributing in concrete terms to the region’s business sector by meeting its needs in terms of expert skills and innovation, says Joakim Storck, Head of the School of Information and Engineering.
Regional and societal benefits
The project is expected to increase the industry’s innovation capacity through new knowledge. It will also enable the development of new educational programmes that will support the supply of competence and expertise in the region. The project will receive partial funding through government grants and will be run in collaboration with, among others, IUC Dalarna, Dalarna Science Park and regional industrial companies.
About the project and funding
The project is part of national efforts towards industrial transition in northern areas of central Sweden. Total funding is SEK 27.5 million, with half of this from Dalarna University (SEK 5.5 million) and Region Dalarna (SEK 8.2 million). The Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth (Tillväxtverket) will finance the remaining half: SEK 13.7 million.
