Malmö: A Gateway to Europe’s Startup and International Business Ecosystem

The city of Malmö, located at the southern tip of Sweden, has long been known as a dynamic, forward-looking region and city. Over the past two decades, it has transformed from an industrial hub into a knowledge-driven economy, earning a reputation as one of Scandinavia’s most innovative and internationally connected cities. Its entrepreneurial history includes a broad range of successful start-ups in tech, sustainability, healthcare and creative industries. Thus proving to be a perfect introduction to the Nordic start-up and business environment in preparation for the mission’s participation for SLUSH, 2025!

A Connected City at the Crossroads of Europe

Few cities in Europe offer the level of accessibility that Malmö does. Through the Öresund Bridge, Malmö is directly connected to Copenhagen, one of Europe’s busiest international airports and a major financial center. This connection places Malmö within easy reach of the rest of Europe: Berlin, London, Paris, and Amsterdam are all less than two hours away by flight. This proximity allows startups and scaleups in Malmö to expand into new European markets more quickly, while still benefiting from Sweden’s stable and supportive business environment.The city’s logistical advantages extend beyond flights. The region is dotted with logistical port facilities and a rail network that expands north to the rest of Scandinavia and south to the rest of the continent.

A Diverse and International Talent Pool

Malmö is one of Sweden’s most multicultural cities, with over 180 nationalities represented among its residents. This international character gives the city a distinct edge in terms of creativity, adaptability, and global perspective. For international entrepreneurs, Malmö is a city where integration is easier, networks are open, and the environment feels welcoming. 

The presence of world-class universities in the Öresund region, such as Lund University and the Technical University of Denmark, provides a continuous flow of highly skilled graduates in fields ranging from life sciences to computer science. This talent pool feeds directly into Malmö’s startup ecosystem, creating an environment where innovative ideas can be tested and scaled with speed.

Startup Ecosystem: Collaboration and Experimentation

Malmö’s startup ecosystem is characterized by collaboration, experimentation, and international ambition. The city hosts several innovation hubs, accelerators, and co-working spaces, such as Minc, which has become a focal point for early-stage startups. These hubs provide not only office space but also mentorship, networking opportunities, and investor connections. For the Europe Mission, the delegation from Fukuoka have partnered with the city of Malmö for a two day program where the participants will get to look behind the curtain of how Malmö became so successful, but also tailored matchmaking based on the companies needs.
With the support from representatives from the city of Malmö and its “Japan Business & Innovation Hub” that focuses on promoting economic development between the Swedish and Japanese markets, the companies from Fukuoka are in for a treat and a shortcut to getting a foothold in Europe.

Conclusion

Malmö is more than a vibrant Nordic city with a thriving startup scene. Its true strength lies in its dual identity: firmly rooted in Sweden’s innovation-driven culture while simultaneously serving as a gateway to Europe. With its strategic location, international talent, collaborative ecosystem, and forward-looking sustainability agenda, Malmö has positioned itself as an essential hub for entrepreneurs who aim not only to succeed locally but to scale globally.

For startups and international businesses alike, Malmö offers the best of both worlds: the reliability and innovation of the Nordics combined with immediate access to the vast opportunities of the European market.

About the Program

The Europe Mission is part of Fukuoka’s broader efforts to position itself as Asia’s gateway to global innovation. By supporting local startups with overseas expansion and cross-border partnerships, the city reinforces its role as a vibrant hub for entrepreneurs, investors, and ecosystem builders.

Global Business Support, operator of the mission, will provide program management, matchmaking support, and coordination with local governments, investors, and industry leaders in Europe.

There is no I in Fukuoka but there is a U!

Feel free to drop by anytime or shoot us a message. We look forward to hearing from you and supporting you on this exciting and wonderful journey.

Global Business Support

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 10:00-17:00 (Days closed : Sundays and Holidays)

Location:

Fukuoka Growth Next (FGN)

Fukuoka Growth Next 1F, 2 Chome-6-11 Daimyo, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka 810-0041

As there is no on-site parking or bicycle parking available, we kindly ask that you utilize nearby parking facilities or bicycle parking areas.

Cambridge Innovation Center（CIC）

ONE FUKUOKA BLDG. 7F, 1-11-1 Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka 810-0001

Please use the contact form on our website to make an inquiry.