almi

Almi, short for Almi Företagspartner, is a Swedish state-owned organization that provides financing and business development support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups. It operates through a nationwide network of regional offices and partners to offer locally tailored assistance.

The organization was established to improve access to capital and advisory services for smaller businesses as part of Sweden’s economic development efforts. It is owned by the Swedish government and governed by a board and chief executive, with collaboration from regional authorities and private lenders to deliver its programs.

Almi offers a range of financial instruments and non-financial guidance. Financial products include loans, credit guarantees, and risk capital or equity-style investments. Non-financial support covers coaching, business development advice, market research, export readiness, and digitalization initiatives, all aimed at helping companies grow, innovate, and reach new markets.

The services are designed to complement private financing and other public programs. Almi emphasizes sustainable growth, job creation, and regional economic impact, working with municipalities, county administrations, and financial institutions to deliver its offerings. While its emphasis is on Swedish SMEs, the organization also coordinates between public policy goals and private sector needs to maximize developmental impact.

Note: In Sweden, Almi is the principal reference for this government-supported financing and advisory network; the name may appear in various contexts elsewhere, but this article describes the Swedish Almi entity and its activities.