What exactly is IoT Sverige?

 “IoT Sverige is a strategic innovation programme in the field of the Internet of Things. There are a total of 17 strategic innovation programmes in Sweden funded by the Government through the Swedish Energy Agency, Vinnova and Formas. All of the strategic innovation programmes share the same goal of working to find sustainable solutions to global societal challenges and to increase competitiveness within their own field/industry.”

 

What is the connection between IoT Sverige and Uppsala University?

 “Uppsala University is the host actor of the programme, and our programme office is within the University’s Innovation Partnership Office.”

 

What does IoT Sverige do?

 “We work to fund different types of IoT projects through calls for proposals or strategic initiatives. Our activities are specifically targeted at the public sector and their needs. Something all of our projects have in common is that they are intended to contribute to creating societal benefits in the public sector, and thus create a better life and make everyday life easier for citizens. Another important role of the programme is to create networks and experience exchanges in our field.”

 

Who are the actors involved in your projects?

 “Municipalities and regions are our primary target groups. But other actors are also important. For innovation projects to be implemented successfully, there must be collaboration between the public sector, academia, companies, and other organisations.”

 

Can you give an example of an exciting IoT project that you are working with?

 “It's hard to pick just one. We have so many exciting initiatives in our project portfolio! But one area that is interesting is how the IoT can contribute to improvements in schools. For example, one of our projects is studying teachers’ movement patterns. The teachers are fitted with sensors, and then heat maps are created to show how they move around the classroom. What will be interesting, of course, is what conclusions can be drawn from this.”

 

Tell us about IoT Sverige’s annual conference on 18 November. What kind of event is it?

 “It's an annual event where we invite everyone interested in knowing more about or discussing challenges and opportunities in the field of IoT. We present our activities and projects, but also want to help inspire, increase knowledge, and build networks. It will be digital this year, and will cover everything from security and procurement to skills needs and common standards and platforms in the IoT.”