Vinnova launches the research and innovation program Advanced Life Science. The program is a strategic part of the government's life science package to meet the rapid global development and increasing competition in the field. The initiative will create the conditions for innovation, international attractiveness, competitiveness and resilience, thereby strengthening Sweden's position in life science.
Life science covers the activities aimed at understanding, preserving and improving people's health through research, innovation and the application of new knowledge. The area includes pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical technology, diagnostics and digital health.
Through broad collaboration between industry, academia and research institutes, the programme will create better conditions for the development, commercialisation and implementation of new solutions throughout the innovation chain.
The programme is a long-term effort that will contribute to the faster development, scale-up and benefit of promising research results and technological breakthroughs for patients and society. At present, the government assignment covers funding and planning until 2028.
"In order for Sweden to be a leader in the next generation of therapies and medical technologies, we need to create better conditions for research, innovation and collaboration. The program will contribute to more research results being developed into solutions that improve people's health and strengthen Sweden's competitiveness" says Karin Stenström, responsible for the program at Vinnova.
Karin Stenström, responsible for the program Advanced Life Science at Vinnova.
The program will strengthen Sweden's position in the life science of the future. Through investments in research, innovation, production and commercialization, more research results and technological breakthroughs will be developed into solutions that benefit patients and society.
Through collaboration, efforts will contribute to business development and, in the long term, implementation of advanced biotechnology and other strategic technologies. Particular focus is placed on strengthening Sweden's innovation infrastructure, skills supply and ability to translate research results into societal benefits and sustainable growth. The continued establishment of CCRM Nordic is a central part of the initiative, for the development, manufacturing and commercialization of advanced therapies (ATMP).
The initiatives will be implemented in close collaboration between industry, higher education institutions and institutes, where industry is expected to participate through extensive co-financing in accordance with the government's mandate.
On 1 October, Vinnova opens the first the call for proposals within the advanced life science program. Companies, academia and other relevant actors can then apply for funding to jointly develop innovative sustainable technologies, products and processes.
Read the call: Future innovative solutions in life science.
"This the call for proposals is a first step to translate the programme's ambitions into concrete project that contributes to the future of life science" says Karin Stenström.
Read about Vinnova's life science initiatives: Innovation in life science
Last updated 14 October 2026
