As one of Sweden’s leading innovation hubs, Ideon Science Park has been driving growth in deep tech, AI, clean energy and life science since 1983. Through the Cross-border Talent Bridge, Ideon is strengthening its role as a connector across the Øresund region. In this interview, they highlight how cross-border collaboration and local programs are helping attract international talent, support startups, and enhance Greater Copenhagen’s position as a global innovation hub.

Why are you part of this collaboration?

– Joining the Cross-border Talent Bridge was an easy decision, says Lotta. It fits perfectly with our mission to keep Sweden at the forefront of innovation. The partnership helps us attract international talent. By working together, we can solve shared challenges and build better long-term solutions.

What talent challenges are you facing, and how can collaboration help?

– As our companies grow, the need for skilled people, especially in tech, science, and business, is exploding, Lotta explains. But there are hurdles: complex hiring rules, lack of support for moving here, and low visibility abroad. Working across borders helps us reach more talent, make the move easier, and tell a clearer story about our region.

A Shared Story for Greater Impact

What is the big opportunity in cross-border collaboration?

– It is about telling one powerful story, says Lotta. We already have what international talent is looking for; great universities, cutting-edge research, and a fantastic quality of life. Now we need to spread the word, together. By pooling our efforts, we can reach further and support people better.

What long-term impact do you hope to see?

– We want to build a strong, connected talent network across Sweden and Denmark that helps companies grow faster and smarter. For us at Ideon, this is a chance to strengthen our place in a global innovation community, and help more people choose this region as their home base for bold ideas.

Leading with Talent and Purpose

How competitive is the region today - and how can we get even better?

– This region has incredible potential thanks to its collaborative culture and deep knowledge base. But we need to keep improving how we support international talent—by making relocation easier, growing career opportunities, and showcasing our quality of life. If we do that together, we can become a true magnet for ambitious people from around the world.

What is Ideon’s role in this?

– We see ourselves as connectors and catalysts. We bring together companies, universities, and policymakers to rethink how we attract and grow talent. We run innovation programs, support international startups, and connect people across borders. In short, we help turn great ideas into real-world impact.

Innovation, Purpose, and Global Talent

What is the best way to reach talent and businesses?

– LinkedIn, international campaigns, and working with embassies are all useful. But the most important thing is what we say: people want purpose-driven work, career growth, and a sense of belonging. That is what we need to communicate.

Any inspiring practices from Ideon?

– A few! Our Soft Landing Program helps international startups get set up quickly. We also run joint programs with big companies and help match talent to jobs. Right now, we are exploring skills-based hiring and upskilling, together with universities and tech firms.

What is the biggest opportunity in this project?

– It is about creating a region that is known worldwide for innovation and opportunity, a place where people do not just find jobs, but find purpose. For us at Ideon, that means expanding our impact from local to global, and helping shape the future of talent and innovation in Europe.

Get in touch with Ideon Science Park

Main contact person for Cross-border Talent Bridge at Ideon Science Park:

Lotta Wessfedlt, Deputy CEO

Send an e-mail to Lotta Wessfeldt - lotta.wessfeldt@ideonsciencepark.se

Learn more about Ideon Science Park