A partnership built on shared values
For years, Sweden and Canada have grown closer through initiatives like the Sweden Canada Innovation Initiative (SCII) and Sweden Canada Innovation Days. These efforts reflect a strong mutual interest: tackling global challenges through cooperation rooted in trust, openness and shared democratic values.In late 2025, the countries signed a strategic bilateral partnership that deepens collaboration across research, innovation, climate, energy, security and trade — creating a more stable and forward‑looking foundation for joint progress.
Strong alignment enables real collaboration
Reflecting on Sweden Canada Innovation Days 2025, Fredrik Göthe highlights how naturally the cooperation works.
“We share similar values and a genuine curiosity to learn from one another. Our innovation ecosystems are strong and complementary, especially in areas such as advanced manufacturing, digitalisation and sustainable resource management.”
This close alignment accelerates the potential for long‑term partnerships where creativity, reliability and co‑creation can thrive — qualities that Sweden is globally recognised for.
A strategic partnership that opens new doors
The new political agreement between Sweden and Canada broadens the collaboration into several future‑defining areas, including:
Defence and societal resilience
Arctic research and partnerships
Digital transformation with a strong research and innovation dimension
Climate and environmental solutions
Sustainable and secure energy systems
Canada’s newly gained status as an associated partner in Horizon Europe further strengthens the bridge between the countries, making it easier for Canadian organisations to engage in European research and innovation programmes.
Significant opportunities for Swedish innovation actors
According to Göthe, the combination of shared values, strategic needs and political momentum creates a fertile landscape for new international innovation partnerships.
“The greatest opportunities lie in the new strategic agreement and in Canada’s role within Horizon Europe. Canadian actors need European partners — and Swedish expertise is highly sought after.”
Established networks within mining and forestry remain valuable, but the renewed partnership also opens opportunities in emerging fields, positioning Sweden as a trusted global partner in sustainable innovation.
Interested in collaborating?
If you want to explore opportunities within the Sweden–Canada collaboration, you are welcome to contact Fredrik Göthe. You can also follow international calls and activities on Vinnovas webpage and stay tuned for upcoming initiatives linked to the partnership. Let’s shape the future together — with room to grow.