In 2003, the foundation was laid for what would later become BIO-X as we know it today. The recognition of the importance of transnational research and collaboration between academia, industry, and society—especially in healthcare—began to take shape. Funding from Vinnova facilitated the development of proof-of-concept projects in a very early stage, between 2003-2009, when other funding sources were scarce.
The methodology forming the basis for BIO-X is continually evolving, and a major update in 2010 now underlies what we refer to as BIO-X Accelerate. The understanding that a close connection between industry, academia, and society is crucial for successful projects had been demonstrated over the years. To advance the development of BIO-X, the focus shifted to addressing specific ”needs.” At this stage, the transition was made from enabling the commercialization of world-leading research to facilitating the commercialization of world-leading research in areas where healthcare faces challenges and there is a clear need and gap. Market-Pull became a guiding principle, with a focus on projects with significant impact.
During 2012–2013, STUNS (former name Uppsala BIO) and Vinnova agreed to roll out BIO-X as a national program, which was duly carried out until 2017. Simultaneously, Uppsala BIO had taken part in the successful strategic innovation program Swelife. When Swelife itself was granted 10-year support in 2014, open calls for proposals became a central part of its activities. Due to Uppsala BIO’s experience with the regional and the national BIO-X program, its staff could quickly take on a leadership role in helping Swelife implement a ‘light’ version of BIO-X named ‘Hands-on’. Uppsala BIO has since worked with the program leadership team of Swelife and been responsible for calls for proposals until early 2018 when responsibility was transferred to others.
In tandem with Swelife’s transition to overseeing funding for Proof-of-Concept (POC) projects, STUNS has strategically shifted its focus towards companies in the validation phase. Collaborating closely with Tillväxtverket (the Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth), STUNS has played a pivotal role in devising a method to directly allocate ERUF (European Regional Development Fund) funds to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in need of validation support. The inaugural call for proposals targeting such enterprises was officially launched in 2019, marking a significant milestone in fostering innovation and growth within the life sciences sector. STUNS continues to be at the forefront of driving initiatives that bridge the gap between research and market-ready solutions, leveraging its expertise to contribute to the success of Sweden’s dynamic innovation landscape.
BIO-X can be used in different ways; Calls for proposals for innovation projects to reach proof-of-concept, project selection in Testa Center, Testa Challenge, and BIO-X Accelerate are some examples. The BIO-X way of thinking permeates everything we do at STUNS Life science, every day.
