A new group, a new beginning – our second programme is underway!
A new group of curious minds has gathered at Home of the Home Lab. Over two kickstart days, the participants in our second incubator cohort are getting to know each other, exploring what connects their ideas, and taking the first steps on a journey from early-stage challenges to tangible prototypes.
Published on 11 September 2026.
A programme with a slightly different focus
The Home of the Home Lab Incubator is officially back for its second round.
While the first cohort welcomed ideas that had already been developed further, this programme puts an even stronger focus on the earliest stages of entrepreneurship. Here, participants begin by exploring and defining a problem worth solving, before creating their first prototype.
Many of the ideas in this cohort are still at a very early stage, and that's exciting. It gives participants the chance to really understand the problem they're trying to solve and test their thinking before building something bigger. Small steps can take you surprisingly far, says Tanja Olsson Öhrn, operations manager at Home of the Home Lab.
A diverse mix of ideas
This year's participants bring a wide range of ideas, experiences and ambitions.
Some are exploring products, other services. Some want to solve practical everyday challenges, while others are driven by questions about sustainability, wellbeing or community.
Together, they create a group where different perspectives can inspire new thinking.
Building a community from day one
The first two days are dedicated to something just as important as developing ideas: building relationships.
Through conversations, exercises and shared experiences, participants are getting to know each other and creating the trust needed for a supportive and creative group dynamic.
Starting something new can feel both exciting and a little uncertain. That's why we spend time building the group from the very beginning. We want participants to feel comfortable challenging each other, learning together and taking the first important steps towards something new, says Tanja.
Getting to know Älmhult's entrepreneurial spirit
The kickstart days are not only about getting to know the incubator and each other. They are also about getting to know the place where the programme happens.
As part of the introduction, participants are exploring different sides of Älmhult's entrepreneurial spirit. On Thursday afternoon, the group visited the IKEA Museum and the exhibition “Who builds the future?”. The exhibition highlights the people, ideas and courage that drive change, encouraging visitors to reflect on how innovation often starts with curiosity, persistence and a willingness to try something new.
Today, the group will also meet local entrepreneurs Hampus Rebjö from Roliga Timmen and Peter Malm from Möckelsnäs Herrgård, who will share stories from their own journeys of turning ideas into reality.
Entrepreneurship is part of Älmhult's DNA. We want participants to experience that first-hand, both by meeting local entrepreneurs and by exploring the stories that have shaped this place. Hopefully, it inspires them to see that their own ideas can make a difference too, says Tanja.
Learn more about the ideas
You can meet all participants and learn more about their ideas on the community page.