How does groundbreaking research go from idea to industrial reality? This is the central question in the report “Printed electronics – from research project to thriving technology”, which describes how long-term investments, collaboration and innovation funding have laid the foundations for a strong cluster within printed and organic electronics in Norrköping.
The report is based on the PEA project, Printed Electronics Arena, led by RISE, which, through strategic funding, enabled the development of expertise, test and demonstration environments, and collaborations between academia, research institutes and industry. The project acted as a catalyst, taking the technology from the research lab to industrial application – and laying the foundations for new companies, business models and applications.
A key success factor has been the interaction within the cluster. The companies have contributed market perspectives, concrete needs and the drive to take innovations further. Research has provided cutting-edge expertise and technological development. At the same time, Norrköping Science Park (NOSP) has played a facilitating role by creating meeting places, building bridges between stakeholders and contributing to structures that enable long-term collaboration.
The report also clearly demonstrates the societal benefits that can be achieved when innovation projects are given the right conditions: enhanced Swedish competitiveness, regional development and new jobs, more effective utilisation of research, and technology that contributes to climate transition and a more sustainable society. Shared test environments have also lowered the barriers for companies to develop, test and scale new technology.
Overall, the report tells the story of how sustained efforts and trust between stakeholders can transform research into societal benefits. It is also a clear reminder that the industry of the future is not created by individual projects – but by ecosystems where people, ideas and organisations develop together over time.
