Moldovan technology companies interested in exploring and entering the Swedish market are invited to apply for TechStep Sweden 2027/2028, a structured market-entry programme developed by Open Trade Gate Sweden in partnership with the Moldova Innovation Technology Park and the Invest Moldova Agency.
The programme supports companies in understanding the Swedish business environment, validating the market potential of their products and services, and building relevant connections within the Swedish technology ecosystem.
The application deadline is 24 August 2026.
More than market research
Entering a new market requires more than online research or occasional participation in international events. Companies need access to reliable market information, local expertise, relevant introductions, and opportunities to test their assumptions directly with potential customers and partners.
TechStep Sweden combines practical learning with tailored, hands-on support. Throughout the programme, participating companies will have opportunities to:
- gain practical insights into the Swedish business environment and customer expectations;
- assess and validate the potential of their products or services in Sweden;
- receive guidance and mentoring from Swedish market experts;
- improve their pitch and prepare for business meetings;
- develop a realistic market-entry strategy;
- connect with relevant Swedish companies, partners, investors, and ecosystem stakeholders;
- participate in potential business visits to Sweden.
The programme is particularly valuable for companies that want to approach international expansion in a structured way and make evidence-based decisions before investing significant resources in a new market.
A three-phase market-entry journey
TechStep Sweden 2027/2028 is organised in three phases, with the level of support becoming increasingly tailored and action-oriented.
Phase 1: Introduction to the Swedish Market
7 September–19 October 2026
All companies that meet the formal eligibility requirements will be admitted to Phase 1.
Participants will complete online learning modules and take part in an interactive workshop with Swedish experts. The phase will introduce companies to the Swedish business environment, market dynamics, customer expectations, and opportunities within the technology sector.
The estimated time commitment for this phase is approximately 14 hours.
Phase 2: Deep Dive into the Swedish Market
15 November 2026–15 June 2027
Following Phase 1, up to 10 companies will be selected for the second phase through a competitive assessment and interview process.
Selected companies will receive more tailored support through training, mentoring, market research, customer validation, pitch preparation, networking activities, and two potential business visits to Sweden.
The objective is to help companies determine whether Sweden represents a commercially viable market for their products or services.
Phase 3: Market Entry Support
1 July 2027–31 March 2028
Companies that complete Phase 2 and demonstrate strong market potential may be invited to continue to the final phase.
This stage will provide hands-on support for developing and implementing a Swedish market-entry plan through individual mentoring, business matchmaking, introductions to relevant stakeholders, additional business visits, and tailored business-development assistance.
Who can apply?
The programme is open to Moldovan small and medium-sized enterprises with up to 250 employees.
Applicant companies must:
- be based in the Republic of Moldova;
- have at least 51% local ownership;
- offer innovative digital products, IT services, or specialised technical expertise;
- demonstrate international business experience;
- have sufficient English-language capacity;
- show a clear interest in exploring business opportunities in Sweden;
- allocate at least two employees to participate actively in the advanced stages of the programme.
Companies applying for Phases 2 and 3 must also demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to co-finance participation-related travel costs. Women-led companies and diverse teams are particularly encouraged to apply.
Practical support at every stage
TechStep Sweden stands out through its practical and highly supportive approach. Companies are guided throughout the programme by experts and mentors who help them understand the market, refine their positioning, prepare for meetings, and connect with relevant stakeholders.
Previous participants have highlighted the value of face-to-face meetings, honest feedback, professional introductions, and the opportunity to learn directly from experienced Swedish professionals.
As Vladimir Luta, CEO of CGI Lab Games, noted: “Face-to-face meetings still matter and can create opportunities that simply would not emerge through online communication alone.”
Participation costs
Participation in TechStep Sweden is free of charge.
For companies selected for Phases 2 and 3, the programme organisers will cover training costs and accommodation during the planned business visits to Sweden.
Participating companies will be responsible for airfare, local transportation, visa fees, and personal expenses.
Ready to explore Sweden?
Sweden offers a mature and internationally connected technology ecosystem, but entering the market requires preparation, patience, and the right local connections.
TechStep Sweden 2027/2028 allows Moldovan companies to test their market potential, learn from Swedish experts, refine their international strategy, and build relationships that could support their long-term growth.
Applications are open until 24 August 2026.
Apply here.
TechStep Sweden is developed and implemented by Open Trade Gate Sweden, Moldova Innovation Technology Park, and Invest Moldova Agency. The programme is funded by the National Board of Trade Sweden through its development cooperation budget.