Incubator
Our six-month programme in Älmhult is all about nurturing your idea: shaping it, testing it, and getting it ready for the world. Throughout, you’ll be part of a supportive community rooted in the entrepreneurial spirit of Älmhult, Sweden – the heart of IKEA.
A place for ideas to take root
We’re passionate about spotting creative ideas and letting them grow, together. You don’t have to have it all figured out – sometimes, a rough sketch and a little curiosity are the perfect start.
We’re looking for ideas that can make life in and around people’s homes better and for people ready to join us on-site in Älmhult. If you’re grounded, globally minded, and ready to roll up your sleeves, we’d love to hear from you.
What we're looking for
At Home of the Home Lab, we care about solutions – products, services, and fresh ideas – for life in and around our homes. We focus on sustainable and smart living, home as a sanctuary, afforable and timeless design, and life beyond the walls.
Want to know more? Check out our four directions of ideas
We speak English as our common language, and welcome curious minds from around the world.
Our offer to you
- Personal guidance: Get tailored coaching and mentoring from experienced, down-to-earth experts.
- Skills growth: Take part in hands-on workshops and activities to shape your idea.
- A supportive community: Connect with IKEA folks, local businesses, and organisations who share their wisdom in inspiring sessions and friendly gatherings.
- A creative hub: Enjoy a warm, energetic space to work, meet, and let new ideas bubble up.
How it works
Twice a year, we welcome up to 10 startups to join us in Älmhult. Your six-month journey is broken into three approachable phases: explore and shape, build and test, and launch and grow. You’ll have the tools, support, and time to:
- understand the challenge your idea tackles and what makes it matter
- explore your users’ needs and build relatable personas
- create your first prototype and minimum viable product (MVP)
- test your concept with real people and refine it further
- plan your budget and set the measures that matter
- build a clear pitch and launch plan.
Participants support themselves or apply for grants during the programme.
Application and selection process
Our programme starts each January and September. If you’re considering the autumn 2026 round, here’s the timeline:
- Apply between 30 March and 19 April.
- We carefully review applications from 20 to 30 April.
- Shortlisted candidates have online chats with us between 11 and 29 May.
- You’ll hear from us no later than 12 June.
The programme runs from 7 September, 2026, to 5 March, 2027. Holiday break over Christmas and New Year's (week 52–01).