Sting partners with SEB to strengthen the startup ecosystem
Sting is proud to announce a new partnership with SEB, one of the Nordic region’s leading financial institutions, to support early-stage entrepreneurs and scaleups. This collaboration brings together Sting’s two decades of experience in accelerating startups with SEB’s long-standing commitment to entrepreneurship and innovation.
A shared vision for entrepreneurship
Since 1856 SEB has supported, inventors/entrepreneurs and positioned itself as a true Nordic powerhouse for entrepreneurs. The bank has invested heavily in building initiatives that guide founders through the entire journey, from their very first idea to growth and international expansion. SEB has created stepping stones for thousands of entrepreneurs through its well-known Entreprenörstrappan (“EntrepreneurshipLadder”). Collaborations span across initiatives like Ung Företagsamhet, VentureCup Sverige, NyföretagarCentrum, Business Challenge, Prins Daniel’s Fellowship, Yeos, Årets Nybyggare and many more.
This work has established SEB not just asa financial partner, but as a genuine builder of Sweden’s entrepreneurial climate. Its strong connections to investors, family offices, and innovation networks make it a natural partner for Sting’s startups.
Why SEB and Sting are joining forces
Sting and SEB share a common goal: to enable more founders to succeed faster and to strengthen Sweden’s innovation-driven economy. The partnership will open new opportunities for founders who joinSting’s programs, giving them access to SEB’s expertise, networks, and resources.
For Sting startups, the collaboration means:
● Advisory and financial services supporting early-stage and growth companies.
● Connections to investors and family offices, broadening fundraising opportunities.
● Participation in Sting Demo Days, onboarding weeks, and workshops, where SEB will contribute with knowledge and engagement.
● Integration into SEB’s entrepreneurial community, with touch points ranging from innovation forums to national awards.
“SEB and Sting share a common vision: promoting inclusive and sustainable entrepreneurship while helping more founders succeed faster and strengthening Sweden’s innovation-driven economy. This partnership will unlock new opportunities for founders in Sting’s programs by providing access to SEB’s expertise, network, and resources. It will also promote synergies and collaboration between partner organisations across the ecosystem of the Entrepreneur Ladder”, says Özge Özen Zink, Partnership Manager,Entrepreneurs at SEB.
A win-win for theecosystem
By combining their strengths, Sting andSEB will contribute to Sweden's stronger, more resilient startup ecosystem. Founders gain more than access to capital; they gain a partner who understands the realities of building companies from the ground up. SEB, in turn, connects with bold entrepreneurs who will shape the next generation of Swedish businesses.
"Sting and SEB share a powerful legacy as pioneers in supporting entrepreneurs, and through this partnership, we are strengthening our shared ambition to grow the ecosystem. For Sting, it's an incredibly valuable opportunity to partner with a financial leader who truly gets our mission, enabling us to further empower the next generation of founders while jointly reinforcing Sweden's unique position as the home of impact in Europe," says Karin Ruiz, CEO of Sting.
This collaboration is not just about financial support; it’s about building a platform where innovation, growth, and sustainability can thrive. Together, Sting and SEB will ensure that more startups can achieve success faster and continue to reshape what matters in society and business.
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