Uppstartssupport

Uppstartssupport is a term used primarily in Sweden to describe programs, services, and financial instruments aimed at helping individuals and groups start and develop new businesses. It encompasses a range of activities designed to reduce barriers to entrepreneurship, improve business viability, and accelerate early growth. Typical forms of uppstartssupport include business advisory services, mentorship, training and education, access to networks, incubator or coworking space, and subsidized or applied financing such as grants, loans, or guarantees.

Support is often organized through public agencies at national or regional levels, municipalities, universities, and public-private partnerships, as well as private accelerators and business incubators. Providers may offer diagnostic assessments, help with business planning, market validation, financial modeling, and assistance with regulatory compliance. In many programs, startups must meet eligibility criteria and engage with mentors or coaches over a defined period; progress may be tracked against milestones.

Benefits include higher survival rates for early-stage ventures, job creation, increased regional development, and better access to markets and investor networks. However, uppstartssupport programs can face challenges such as uneven geographic coverage, administrative complexity, and risk of dependency on subsidies. Effective programs typically emphasize outcome-oriented support, transparency, and alignment with local innovation ecosystems.

See also: entrepreneurship, business incubator, accelerator, startup accelerator, grant program, innovation policy.