Many of the high technology companies are located at Mjärdevi Science Park, which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, neighbouring Linköping University. Associated with the University are a number of research and development institutions. The history of Mjärdevi is relatively short but development has maintained a high tempo. History however does show that great things can be achieved when all positive energy is focused on one and the same vision. -Mjärdevi opened in 1984 and replaced a farm with woodland, meadows and fields, says Sten Gunnar Johansson, CEO, Mjärdevi Science Park AB.

World class businesses

What makes Mjärdevi Science Park so special? -Well, says Sten Gunnar Johansson, it is in close vicinity to the University which opens up opportunities for cooperation and the transfer of competence. We also run a focused operation providing support and stimulation to new companies active within knowledge and development intensive areas to get started. Existing companies maintain world class competencies within a variety of specialties which attract a stream of new individuals and companies to Mjärdevi Science Park. -Companies which begin their existence here are mainly involved in development. Focus is on imagery, telecom and vehicle safety. About 30% of the 235 businesses located in the Park are so-called spin-off companies from the University or an Institute and have been started by students or researchers who have an idea which they developed within the academic sphere.

International operations 

Mjärdevi is the base for a number of those companies which have made Linköping famous as an IT city. Many of these companies work internationally which is why Mjärdevi has developed cooperation with “sister parks” in other countries. Thus cooperation have in turn provided access to new markets for these businesses. Establishment of new companies and their development are of special interest to Sten Gunnar Johansson, CEO for Mjärdevi Science Park. -We want to provide new entrepreneurs and businesses with as good a start as possible with focus on growth. This occurs within the incubator operation Lead but also through various educational programmes and seminars. Rivstart (A Flying Start) is a programme within the areas of technology and natural sciences aimed at newly established companies.

Lead and Rivstart

Lead is an incubator which provides the most dedicated entrepreneurs who have the best ideas with the opportunity to build a sustainable business. An incubator offers the ideal environment for young businesses during the start-up phase which is when they are most vulnerable. The support provided can take the form of supplying resources on demand which safe-guard development from business idea to a sustainable, expansive and successful company. Rivstart is a shorter program comprising of a 6-month package involving advice and support aimed at newly established business owners. The fantastic development of Mjärdervi Science Park has resulted in almost 6,000 people working in this area. Amongst the major companies are Ericsson, Releasy, IFS, Sectra, Lawson, Combitech, Motorola, Flextronics and Logica. If you would like to know more about businesses, programmes or activities please visit Mjärdevi Science Park's homepage.