A new centre for testbeds within bioeconomy in development

In a first phase, a flexible pilot hall is being built with several different testbeds adjacent to RISEs already established activities in Örnsköldsvik

Now begins work with the investment in a world-unique testbed for commercialization of new technologies, products and services within bioeconomy. In a first phase, a flexible pilot hall is being built with several different testbeds adjacent to RISEs already established activities in Örnsköldsvik.

The Swedish Government has allocated RISE Research Institute of Sweden 350 million SEK over two years with the intent to intensify work on sustainable solutions within bioeconomy. The addition will strengthen RISEs investment in testbeds for biorefinery. Now, the first step is being taken in the establishment of a centre for testbeds where innovators, entrepreneurs, marketers and researchers can meet to scale up and commercialize new technologies.

– The purpose of the initiative is to create an internationally leading centre for the commercialization of the emerging bioeconomy’s new products. The investment can include a wide range of technologies and end products with climate relevance as the common denominator, says Pia Sandvik, CEO of RISE.

In a first phase, RISE will build a flexible pilot hall with a variety of different testbeds. The plan is to build the pilot hall in Örnsköldsvik, in order to create the greatest synergies with existing infrastructure and existing research environments. The goal is to establish a world-class innovation environment where companies, researchers and entrepreneurs in the bioeconomy can meet. In addition to the infrastructure and operator strength provided by RISE, it will be possible for companies to set up their own pilot equipment and station staff in the dynamic innovation environment consisting of labs, pilots, offices and meeting places.