Venture Cup Sverige
We are the Swedish non-profit association that has helped people all over Sweden turn a business idea into a real company since 1998 through competitions, expert feedback, education and networks.
Who we are
Venture Cup Sverige is a non-profit association (Swedish ideell förening), registration number 802409-4339, with its registered seat in Gothenburg, Sweden. We operate nationwide from our offices in Gothenburg, Stockholm and Malmö.
The association was founded in 1998 on the initiative of McKinsey & Company together with Chalmers University of Technology, the University of Gothenburg and Innovationsbron. Today we are supported by all of Sweden's major universities and run in partnership with both the private and the public sector.
Who we serve
Aspiring entrepreneurs
Students, researchers, university staff and anyone else with a business idea, regardless of background, hometown or industry. For many of our participants, this is their first company.
Business and academia
Experienced entrepreneurs, investors, industry experts and academics who volunteer their time as jury members, mentors and speakers, and who get to meet tomorrow's companies early.
Our programs and services
Everything we do serves one purpose: making it easier, and less lonely, to turn an idea into a business.
The VENTURECUP competition
Our main competition, for those who already have a company or a well-developed business idea. Entries are assessed by an expert jury and the competition is decided through regional heats and a national final.
The IDEA competition
The low threshold entry point. All you need is an idea and a short submission, made for those who have not yet got started but want to test whether the idea holds up. Both competitions are free to enter.
Expert jury feedback
Every entry receives written feedback from business developers, investors and industry experts. For many participants, that assessment is the single most valuable part of the process.
Education and workshops
Courses and workshops together with universities and partners, among them “From Idea to Investment Decision in Three Days” with Berghs School of Communication.
Events and inspiration
Regional finals, a national final and seminars that every year bring together thousands of participants, partners and investors across Sweden.
Network and mentorship
Access to mentors, investors and partner companies, as well as a growing alumni network of companies that once stood on our stage themselves.
Our impact
“RaySearch Laboratories would not exist today if I had not come into contact with Venture Cup.” Johan Löf, founder & CEO, RaySearch Laboratories
How we are run and funded
Venture Cup Sverige is a non-profit association with no profit motive. Our work is made possible by partnerships with companies, universities and public sector organisations, and by all the entrepreneurs, investors and experts who each year volunteer their time to read entries, coach participants and serve on our juries. Any surplus goes straight back into the organisation.