Linnaeus University's Innovation Call
Do you have an idea that deserves to take the next step – but struggle to find the time and resources to move it forward? Linnaeus University’s Innovation Call is open to both researchers and students with ideas that could make a real-world impact beyond academia.
The application for the Innovation Call 2025 closed on 15 September.
- For researchers: Two ideas will be awarded SEK 175,000 each.
- For students: Four ideas will be awarded SEK 50,000 each.
Whether your idea is rooted in research, a project you're passionate about, or something you’ve observed in your everyday life – and whether it's aimed at business, social innovation, or something entirely different – we want to support your next step forward.
What can I receive support for?
The funding can be used for e.g.:
- Time to work on your idea.
- Creating prototypes or materials.
- Conducting user tests or pilot projects.
- Assembling a team.
- Collaborating with experts, consultants, or partners.
- Starting a company.
- Exploring the way forward: Who could benefit from your idea? How can it become a reality?
What matters most is that your idea has the potential to create value for people, organisations, or society. You may apply as an individual or as a group. The funding may not be used for research itself, but can absolutely support the practical application of research findings.
Meet some of the 2024 winners
A hidden problem – children with care responsibilities
Ulrika Järkestig Berggren, associate professor of social work, developed a digital platform that helps social workers identify children taking on excessive caregiving responsibilities at home – a widespread, yet often overlooked issue that can pose serious risks to children’s development.
“Receiving this award means we can now make our assessment method available to more municipalities, not just those involved in our research. We’ll also build a database to support future research and social initiatives.”
Research in the fight against Parkinson’s Disease
Thomas Näsström and Björn Karlsson, researchers in chemistry, have developed a novel strategy to produce antibodies that could aid both diagnostics and future treatment of Parkinson’s disease.
“The award gave our research legitimacy – it’s proof that our work is relevant to society. The funding is helping us free up time, attend conferences, and collaborate with biotech partners.”
Questions and answers about the Innovation Call
Who can apply?
- Researchers, doctoral students, and employees at Linnaeus University
- Students at undergraduate or advanced level (registered as students at Linnaeus University at the 15 September deadline)
Your idea can be in its early stages or more developed – we're looking for potential, dedication, and a drive to make a difference.
How does it work?
- The application opens on 5 May.
- Submit the application form by 15 September.
- An initial screening is carried out.
- About twice as many applicants as there are grants will be invited to pitch their idea to a jury.
- The jury selects which ideas will be awarded funding.
What are the evaluation criteria?
To ensure transparency, applications are assessed based on three main criteria:
- Degree of innovation – is the idea novel or clearly better than existing alternatives?
- Potential impact – what benefits could the idea generate? What societal challenges could it help address?
- Potential for implementation – how likely is it that you can move the idea forward and achieve the benefits and impact you aim for?
What happens if my idea is awarded?
- Your project will be recognised at the university’s annual award ceremony.
- You will enter an innovation process supported by Lnu Innovation.
- You’ll receive help to assess your current situation, create a plan, and take concrete steps forward.
- You’ll get the chance to test your idea with users, need owners, or potential customers.
- You’ll join a network of driven entrepreneurs and experts.
- The funding must be used during 2026.
Questions?
- Are you a researcer/employee? At Lnu Innovation, we are here to support you!
- Are you a student? Read more at Lnu Innovation for students.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch early to discuss your idea, get tips for your application, and ask any questions you might have.