Next generation of innovators and leaders

At BTH, the motto “In Real Life” is more than a slogan—it reflects a way of working. Students and researchers collaborate with companies to solve real challenges in product development, process optimisation and digital transformation.

Companies collaborating with BTH include:

- Volvo

- Ericsson

- Tetra Pak

- SAAB

- Spotify

- Telenor

- NKT

- Alfa Laval

- SAAB Kockums

One example is the long-term collaboration between BTH and Volvo Construction Equipment, where AI and Big Data are used to improve and optimise industrial production processes.

BTH is recognised globally for research excellence—especially in software engineering, Big Data and sustainability. BTH’s software engineering research ranks #2 in the world and #1 in Europe in leading academic publications. Sustainability research at BTH is also among the most cited globally, strengthening the region’s expertise in long-term development and future-ready innovation.

What this means for companies in Blekinge:

- access to specialised competence and applied research

- talent pipelines connected to real industry needs

- opportunities for long-term collaboration and innovation projects

BTH’s Master’s programme in Strategic Leadership Towards Sustainability (MSLS) is internationally recognised for its excellence. One of its founders, Professor Karl-Henrik Robèrt, received the Blue Planet Prize—often referred to as “the Nobel Prize in Sustainability”—for pioneering work in sustainable development.

Since 2009, the programme has educated more than 600 leaders from 80+ countries, creating a global network of sustainability professionals shaping the future of business and organisations worldwide.

Blekinge is also home to Hyper Island, a globally renowned digital creative school, sometimes referred to as a “Digital Harvard”. Founded in Blekinge almost 25 years ago, Hyper Island has educated more than 4,000 students who today work in leading organisations around the world.

Hyper Island is known for a hands-on learning model, where students solve real challenges together with companies and are guided by industry experts rather than traditional teaching methods. In 2010, Hyper Island was recognised by Sweden’s Crown Princess Victoria for its innovative approach to learning and knowledge sharing.

In the heart of Blekinge, Blekinge Business Incubator (BBI) supports startups and entrepreneurs with coaching in business development, management, marketing, sales and finance. BBI has helped numerous companies scale and is recognised as Sweden’s number one incubator in terms of turnover among participating businesses.

For companies looking to connect with new ideas, innovation-driven entrepreneurs and future growth potential, BBI is an important part of the regional ecosystem.