2024-09-23
Incubator
Yuncture News

How to start a business in Sweden - Step by step

Starting a business is an exciting process that can give you the freedom to realize your ideas and shape your own workday. In 2023, over 70,000 businesses were started, and this figure has remained fairly consistent over the past 15 years (source: Statistics Sweden, SCB). Starting a business isn’t overly complicated, but there are quite a few steps and a few important decisions to make. With that in mind, we’ve put together a little guide for those considering starting their own business, focusing on the practical steps to get going, including costs and key practical considerations.

Yuncture incubator is a place for entrepreneurs with innovative ideas and startups.

Start by choosing a business structure

The first step is choosing the business structure that best suits your operation. In Sweden, there are four main types:

Limited company (AB)
The most popular choice for companies with larger ambitions. Here, the business is a separate legal entity, and as the owner, you are not personally liable for debts. A minimum share capital of SEK 25,000 is required.

Sole proprietorship
The simplest and cheapest option, perfect for solo entrepreneurs. However, you are personally responsible for the company’s debts and assets. No start-up capital is required.

Partnership
If two or more people are starting a business, a partnership could be an option. All partners are jointly liable for debts and contracts.

Economic association
This is a business form suitable for operations run jointly by members, such as cooperatives.

Once you’ve chosen a business structure, you need to register your company with the Swedish Companies Registration Office and the Swedish Tax Agency. You can do this easily online via Verksamt, where the Companies Registration Office, Tax Agency, and Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth have gathered their services to make it simple for you.

Time to register your business

The next step is to formally register your company. Here’s what you need to do:

Submit your registration to the Companies Registration Office

If you are starting a limited company, partnership, or economic association, you must register it with the Companies Registration Office. The registration cost varies depending on the business structure:

  • Limited company: SEK 1,900 (online) or SEK 2,200 (paper form)

  • Partnership: SEK 900 (online) or SEK 1,200 (paper form)

  • Sole proprietorship: You don’t need to register it with the Companies Registration Office unless you want to protect your business name.

Apply for F-tax with the Tax Agency

All business owners in Sweden must apply for F-tax. With F-tax, you show that you are responsible for paying taxes and fees on your income. You can apply for this in connection with your business registration on Verksamt.se.

VAT registration

If you plan to sell goods or services subject to VAT, you must register for VAT. In most cases, you’ll need to report and pay VAT from the first krona you earn. Visit the Tax Agency’s website for more information on when you need to register your business for VAT.

Create a business plan

A business plan serves as a roadmap for navigating the entrepreneurial journey successfully. While it’s not required to have a business plan, it’s highly recommended, especially if you plan to seek funding or investors. Your business plan should include:

  • - Your business idea and vision

  • - Market and competitor analysis

  • - Your goals and growth strategies

  • - Financing and budget

  • - Risk assessment and potential challenges

A well-prepared business plan also helps you be more organized and prepared for starting your business.

Psst! Did you know that Yuncture has an incubator for innovative ideas and startups? It’s a 5-month program focused entirely on you as an entrepreneur. You get access to tools, a large network of experts in various fields, office space, and access to Yuncture House with all our spaces and events. And, of course, unlimited coffee! All this, completely free of charge. Learn more and register your interest here.

Open a business account & manage accounting

To manage your business finances, you’ll need a business account. Most banks in Sweden offer business packages that include a business account, business card, and invoicing and accounting services. Many banks also offer these services free of charge for the first year!

As a business owner in Sweden, you are required to maintain your accounting in accordance with Swedish law. You can choose to handle the accounting yourself using software like Visma or Fortnox, or hire an accountant or bookkeeper.

Secure funding

Starting a business often entails certain costs, and depending on your business, you may need external funding. Common ways to finance your business include:

  • Own capital
    You can invest your own money, which is common for small business owners.

  • Loans
    Many banks offer business loans, but you can also explore microloans through providers like Almi.

  • Crowdfunding
    This is a growing trend where you present your idea on a platform like Kickstarter or Pepins and let many people invest smaller amounts.

  • Venture capital
    If you have an innovative business idea, consider raising venture capital. Yuncture invests in exciting startups, so if you have a promising idea, we’d love for you to contact our colleague Anton.

Obtain any necessary permits

Once all the formal steps are completed, it’s time to get your business up and running. Depending on your industry, you may need additional permits, for example, if you’re selling alcohol or handling food. Check with your municipality and any relevant authorities to ensure you have all the necessary permits.

Market your business

Now that your business is registered and ready to start, you’ll need customers. A well-planned marketing strategy is key to attracting new customers and building your brand. Here are some steps you can take:

  • - Create a website

  • - Be active on social media

  • - Advertise online via Google Ads or Facebook Ads

  • - Attend trade shows and networking events

At Yuncture House, we offer workspaces and a network of entrepreneurs who can provide you with insights and support in marketing and business development. Why not stop by for a tour? Contact us here.

Protect your idea

Consider protecting your business idea, brand, or innovation. For example, you can apply for trademark protection with the PRV (Swedish Patent and Registration Office) or protect your inventions with a patent.

Ready to start your business?

Starting a business is a fun process. By following the steps above and utilizing all available resources, such as Yuncture’s incubator and support from other entrepreneurs at Yuncture House who have already gone through these steps, you can make the journey a little easier — and more enjoyable!

Yuncture are here to support you all the way from idea to successful entrepreneurship. Good luck!