KTH among Europe’s leading universities in new Deep Tech report

Deep tech refers to companies built on advanced, research-driven technologies, often originating from universities and research institutes. These companies are typically characterized by high technical complexity, longer development timelines, and a close link to scientific breakthroughs.

According to the report, 34 such companies founded by individuals with ties to KTH have raised venture capital since 2020. This places KTH among the top 10 universities in Europe.

“This confirms what we see at KTH, where more researchers are taking their ideas from lab to market,” says Lisa Ericsson, Head of KTH Innovation. “Just last year, 20 research-based companies were started with support from KTH Innovation.”

Stockholm one of the world’s leading deep tech environments

The results reflect a broader trend in which Sweden stands out as one of the European countries with the strongest focus on advanced technology-driven innovation. The report shows that 11.3 percent of venture capital in Sweden is directed toward deep tech, one of the highest shares in Europe.

Stockholm is also highlighted as one of the world’s leading deep tech environments. In the report’s global ranking, the city places 13th among the world’s top ecosystems, based on factors such as momentum, investment, patents, and university–industry linkages.

“Stockholm is often associated with digital companies, but the report shows that the city also has strong capabilities in deep tech, with significant untapped potential,” says Lisa Ericsson. “We see a lot of exciting developments emerging from KTH labs, in areas such as biotechnology, advanced AI, materials and robotics.”

Strenghtening Europe

At the same time, the report points out that a large share of capital in later-stage funding rounds still comes from investors outside Europe. Most companies that are acquired also do not have European buyers, raising questions about where these companies ultimately establish themselves and grow.

“Deep tech requires a strong ecosystem where companies, the public sector, partners, investors and customers collaborate,” says Lisa Ericsson. “We need a stronger culture where solutions are actually implemented, not just tested in pilot projects. It is about ensuring the right conditions are in place for more companies to start and grow with Europe as their base.”

Encouraging researchers to take the next step

“Many of the solutions to today’s challenges already exist within our research environments. What's important now is to make sure that they don't remain in the lab. We encourage all KTH researchers who want to explore the potential of their research outside of academia to get in touch with us", finishes Lisa Ericsson.

Text: Lisa Bäckman

How KTH Innovation supports deep tech

KTH Innovation's support is open to teams founded by current students or researchers at KTH. We can help with: 

• Support from specialized business development coaches with understanding of your field of technology
• Access to investors, including KTH Ventures , Trio Impact Invest , and KTH Innovation’s broader investor network
• Support with building a team with skills that compliment yours
• Connections to industry and the public sector
• Managing intellectual property, including patents and agreements
• Access to verification funding for activities like prototyping or market validation
• Targeted programs, including:
  • Pioneer : A program for promising deep tech projects. The program brings together ambitious research teams from KTH with Venture Builders, creating a platform where potential co-founders can meet, collaborate, and form teams organically.
  • Discovery : A program for researchers who are curious about innovation and want to explore the potential of their research.

• Book a meeting to explore your opportunities with us