Press release: West Sweden as a hub for 'Inclusive Business'

Flypulse AB's drones deliver vital necessities to difficult terrains in Africa. Juteborg AB replaces plastic with jute while supporting jute-farmers in Bangladesh. Together with several other innovative companies, they are putting the region on the map through their profit-driven businesses that fight poverty.

The Expand initiative, supported by Västra Götalandsregionen and the EU, is building in West Sweden a supportive hub for the aforementioned Inclusive Businesses. The initiative aims to increase the knowledge about Inclusive Business and the opportunities available for meeting global development challenges with viable business models. As part of the initiative, 14 innovative companies from the region were selected to participate in the 'Pioneer Program'. Through the program, they have been supported to develop and test their innovative business ideas in developing markets. In February 2019, companies will pitch their business idea in a 'Dragons Den'.

Make It Green Solutions AB has developed an energy-efficient solution for cooking, Again AB is working with an innovative circular sanitation system while Bjurtech AB is developing a small-scale electric fishing boat! OSOL AB is finding pathways for low-cost electric mobility in developing countries. OlsAro Crop is currently testing a salt tolerant wheat on salty soils in Bangladesh, and Lilihan handicraft enables women in Iran to sell their high-quality rugs. Together they have a goal - to make the world a better place. Read more about Expand and the upcoming 'Dragons Den' here.