TechSverige to the Next Government: Free Up 100 Billion in the Public Sector Through AI and Digitalization
The next term of office will be crucial for Sweden’s position in the technological shift—and thus for our competitiveness, future jobs, and the ability to fund a strong welfare state. In its future agenda, “Techsäkra Sverige,” TechSverige presents nearly 50 reforms that show how the next government can translate new technology into increased productivity, growing businesses, improved welfare, and a safer society.
Sweden is heading into an election in the midst of one of the greatest technological shifts of modern times. AI is changing the way we work, run businesses, conduct research, and organize our welfare system. At the same time, global competition for technology, capital, expertise, and investments is intensifying.
“Sweden is one of the countries in the world best positioned to succeed in the AI era. We have technical expertise, innovative companies, and a Swedish model for collaboration and transformation. But time is of the essence. The next government needs to move from strategies and individual initiatives to implementation and a comprehensive policy for the technological shift,” says Åsa Zetterberg, CEO of TechSverige.
In its future agenda, “Techsäkra Sverige ,” TechSverige presents reforms for the 2026–2030 term. The vision is for Sweden to become Europe’s leading tech nation by 2035 and a global role model for how AI and new technologies empower people, businesses, society, and democracy.
One of the proposals is for the government to set a goal that AI and digitalization will free up resources equivalent to 100 billion kronor annually in the public sector.
“Sweden is facing growing welfare needs while resources are limited. Used correctly, new technology can free up time, increase productivity, and create more opportunities for human interaction when it is desirable. That is how AI can contribute to higher quality and make a real difference in people’s everyday lives,” says Åsa Zetterberg.
TechSverige also wants the next government to:
- appoints a Minister of AI and Technology with overall responsibility for the technological transition, supported by a Digitalization Cabinet
- implement a national skills initiative for the AI era
- Introduce an AI-ROT program for small and medium-sized enterprises to support investments in AI
- secures the infrastructure for the AI era by providing competitive conditions for investments in data centers, fiber, 5G/6G, and other digital infrastructure
- strengthens the fight against cybercrime by adding more cyber police officers
- make Sweden the best country in Europe to launch, build, and scale tech companies, in part through competitive regulations for employee stock options and a talent visa for top international talent.
“This is about more than just tech policy. It’s about the opportunities for people and entrepreneurs amid the technological shift, which companies will grow here, what new jobs will be created, and how we will finance the welfare and security of the future. The next government has the opportunity to lay the foundation for Sweden’s prosperity for decades to come,” says Åsa Zetterberg.