This is our biweekly Excellence cluster update.
Dialogues with Potential Knowledge Hubs and Sector Leaders
This biweekly update highlights ongoing developments within the Excellence Cluster initiative and our continued dialogue with key national and sectoral actors.
Dialogue with National Actors
We participated in Vinnova’s and the Swedish Research Council’s (VR) joint seminar on strategic approaches to excellence clusters. In parallel, we are preparing for the upcoming call for proposals for Excellence Clusters, planned to open in April. The call emphasizes the creation of strong cooperation between excellent research and innovation, underpinned by a bold vision and leadership, an international perspective, flexibility, focused collaboration, and long-term impact.
These priorities align closely with our current work and strategic direction.
Engagement with Stakeholders and Emerging Knowledge Hubs
We continue structured discussions with potential stakeholders within our proposed Excellence Cluster in Photonics. During the past period, we have met with representatives from:
- The quantum technology field
- Life sciences
- Digital technology
We are working on technology convergence because it
- Creates faster innovation
- Enables new business models
- Solves complex societal challenges
- Strengthens international competitiveness
In the Swedish Photonics Excellence Cluster initiative, technology convergence is central, as the strength lies not in a single technology, but in how photonics interacts with AI, quantum, biotechnology, digitalisation and advanced manufacturing.
In addition, we are reaching out to representatives within the STEM initiative, with the aim of establishing close collaboration and a dialogue how we can align the skills and talent strategy within the Excellence Cluster.
Next Steps
We are now refining the initial outlines of the Knowledge Hubs and demonstrator formats, while continuing our structured dialogue with stakeholders across academia, industry, and the broader innovation system.
More updates will follow as the work progresses.
