When Sectors Meet: Uncovering the Keys to Effective Cross-Industry Collaboration in Sweden - A qualitative study on how relational, organizational, and strategic dimensions shape cross-industry innovation in Sweden

Abstract

As complex societal and environmental challenges continue to grow and unfold, and as global competitiveness intensifies, collaboration across industry boundaries has become increasingly important for innovation. In Sweden, cross-industry initiatives are becoming more prevalent, yet the underlying factors that make such collaborations function more effectively remain rather underexplored. This thesis hence aims to investigate the question: In what ways do relational, organizational, and strategic dimensions contribute to the functioning of cross-industry innovation collaborations in Sweden? The study draws on insights from twelve semi-structured interviews with representatives from the public sector, intermediaries, and private firms, all actively engaged in collaborative innovation that spans across sectors. Thematic analysis guided the interpretation of the findings, which were analyzed in relation to a broad theoretical framework drawing on innovation ecosystems, inter-organizational governance, organizational learning, cultural context, and purpose-driven innovation. The results highlight that cross-industry collaboration for innovation does not succeed through isolated efforts, but instead emerges through a reinforcing interaction between mainly trust, governance, and shared strategic goals. Trust was described as essential for lowering barriers and enabling openness. Organizational structures, such as steering groups and joint learning routines, helped translate intentions into coordinated actions, while clear strategic missions served as guiding forces that brought diverse actors together. Public intermediaries further played a key role in connecting stakeholders by offering guidance, governance templates, and aligning incentives. This thesis contributes to a more nuanced understanding of how Swedish cross-industry innovation collaborations function in practice, and also offers practical guidance for those aiming to design collaborative environments that are both resilient and strategically aligned.