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Prototypes for Futures 2022

Vinnova offers futurists, innovators and creators to submit sketches of future scenarios to at a later stage have the chance to apply for funding to design experienced futures. The purpose is to create dialogue about how we addresses important future issues with the help of innovation.

This web page has been machine translated. If there are any uncertainties, please refer to the Swedish text.

The offer in brief

What can you apply for?

At this stage, you can apply with an idea, which through coaching with other applicant can be developed into a proposal for the next step: Future prototypes - implementation, in which funding can be sought to shape possible futures and dialogues.

Who can apply?

Individuals, teams or organizations that want to shape possible futures and dialogues. For example, in roles such as creators, artists, designers, site owners, futurists or conversation leaders.

How much can you apply for?

In this phase you can not apply for funding, but only to gain access to international coaches and networks for the design of the next step proposal. There are eligibility requirements in the sketch phase to be able to later apply for funding.

Important dates

At our voluntary information meetings, you will hear about the call and have the opportunity to ask questions.

    • The call in detail

    • Future prototypesis an effort where Vinnova through exploratory methods, such as speculative design, tries to understand and make futures more concrete and tangible. Together with designers, artists, creators, visionaries, citizens, decision-makers and the innovation system, we want to bring to life stories about and experiences of the future - through physical artifacts, prototypes and environments. The goal of the effort is to stimulate our ability to imagine different futures and generate discussions that make it easier for more people to participate and influence the development for a sustainable change.

      This offer is divided into two phases. Most of this call text concerns the first phase, outline. We also briefly describe the second phase, implementation, which will be relevant for those who go further in the sketch phase. You can read about the implementation phase in the section "What applies to the implementation phase?".

      Outline

      In the first phase, interested actors are offered to send in an outline of what they can and want to contribute - and in which area they wish to contribute. You can apply and participate either as a creator or process leader - with ideas for creative events for future dialogues - or as an environmental owner who has access to an environment to carry out the events in.

      Applicant whose sketches go further in the assessment process will have the opportunity to participate in planning, collaboration and matchmaking activities organized by Vinnova to facilitate the creation of teams that can realize Future Prototypes. You can not get funding in the sketch phase.

      Implementation

      The second phase aims at the implementation of a project. You are looking for this phase as a team. Here we believe that the 5-10 team will want to apply with a renewed proposal for funding. The total grant budget is up to SEK 5,000,000. In addition funding, support is offered - including in the form of coaching by international specialists in speculative design. You must have gone through the sketch phase to be able to apply in the implementation phase.

      Future prototypesis an effort where Vinnova through exploratory methods, such as speculative design, tries to understand and make futures more concrete and tangible. Together with designers, artists, creators, visionaries, citizens, decision-makers and the innovation system, we want to bring to life stories about and experiences of the future - through physical artifacts, prototypes and environments. The goal of the effort is to stimulate our ability to imagine different futures and generate discussions that make it easier for more people to participate and influence the development for a sustainable change.

      This offer is divided into two phases. Most of this call text concerns the first phase, outline. We also briefly describe the second phase, implementation, which will be relevant for those who go further in the sketch phase. You can read about the implementation phase in the section "What applies to the implementation phase?".

      Outline

      In the first phase, interested actors are offered to send in an outline of what they can and want to contribute - and in which area they wish to contribute. You can apply and participate either as a creator or process leader - with ideas for creative events for future dialogues - or as an environmental owner who has access to an environment to carry out the events in.

      Applicant whose sketches go further in the assessment process will have the opportunity to participate in planning, collaboration and matchmaking activities organized by Vinnova to facilitate the creation of teams that can realize Future Prototypes. You can not get funding in the sketch phase.

      Implementation

      The second phase aims at the implementation of a project. You are looking for this phase as a team. Here we believe that the 5-10 team will want to apply with a renewed proposal for funding. The total grant budget is up to SEK 5,000,000. In addition funding, support is offered - including in the form of coaching by international specialists in speculative design. You must have gone through the sketch phase to be able to apply in the implementation phase.

    • Vinnova has the task of promoting sustainable growth so that we can achieve the goals in Agenda 2030. Vinnova also has a special responsibility to promote gender equality, which in itself is an objective but which is also a means of achieving other objective in Agenda 2030.

      Sustainability, Agenda 2030 and gender equality are complex phenomena and the goals described, for example, in Agenda2030 are abstract and sometimes contradictory. It can be difficult to understand how we can best reach them in a balanced way and what they can concretely mean in a Swedish context in the future.

      This call for proposals therefore aims to make conceivable futures concrete so that we can better imagine futures we want to exist, how we can get there and how we can avoid futures we do not want to create. By creating representations of possible futures and forums for conversations about these, we want to create dialogues between decision-makers, citizens and the innovation system to gather around long-term innovation for societies in Sweden.

      Art and culture have always been a means of evoking thoughts about future societies. Through various forms of design, we can get help to raise questions, talk about possible (desired and unwanted) futures and better imagine complex future contexts. But we believe that art and culture are not enough all the way. We believe that a combination of designs is needed together with qualified ideas about possible futures (scenario design, strategic foresight, signal scanning and strategic analysis) and structured formats for dialogue and conversation. We believe that emerging methods based on future-oriented design, sometimes referred to as Experiental Futures2, can contribute to broad inclusive, inspiring conversations about possible futures and the role of innovations in shaping them.

      With this call, we want to promote dialogues about thoughtfully conceivable / possible complex connections that are expressed in everyday future public environments (for example, the connections between climate change, urbanization, populism, crime, community services, healthcare and childcare, integration, education, commerce, working life and family life). The ambition is future prototypes that generate conversations about how we can best meet an uncertain future.

      Vinnova has the task of promoting sustainable growth so that we can achieve the goals in Agenda 2030. Vinnova also has a special responsibility to promote gender equality, which in itself is an objective but which is also a means of achieving other objective in Agenda 2030.

      Sustainability, Agenda 2030 and gender equality are complex phenomena and the goals described, for example, in Agenda2030 are abstract and sometimes contradictory. It can be difficult to understand how we can best reach them in a balanced way and what they can concretely mean in a Swedish context in the future.

      This call for proposals therefore aims to make conceivable futures concrete so that we can better imagine futures we want to exist, how we can get there and how we can avoid futures we do not want to create. By creating representations of possible futures and forums for conversations about these, we want to create dialogues between decision-makers, citizens and the innovation system to gather around long-term innovation for societies in Sweden.

      Art and culture have always been a means of evoking thoughts about future societies. Through various forms of design, we can get help to raise questions, talk about possible (desired and unwanted) futures and better imagine complex future contexts. But we believe that art and culture are not enough all the way. We believe that a combination of designs is needed together with qualified ideas about possible futures (scenario design, strategic foresight, signal scanning and strategic analysis) and structured formats for dialogue and conversation. We believe that emerging methods based on future-oriented design, sometimes referred to as Experiental Futures2, can contribute to broad inclusive, inspiring conversations about possible futures and the role of innovations in shaping them.

      With this call, we want to promote dialogues about thoughtfully conceivable / possible complex connections that are expressed in everyday future public environments (for example, the connections between climate change, urbanization, populism, crime, community services, healthcare and childcare, integration, education, commerce, working life and family life). The ambition is future prototypes that generate conversations about how we can best meet an uncertain future.

    • Individuals, teams or organizations can apply for the sketch phase. To create speculative environments, prototypes and events, we open up proposal for different roles, for example:

      • Creators: for example, artists, designers, writers and performing artists.
      • Process leader who can engage visitors and lead dialogue
      • Venues: companies and organizations that want to open up their environment for events

      Individuals, teams or organizations can apply for the sketch phase. To create speculative environments, prototypes and events, we open up proposal for different roles, for example:

      • Creators: for example, artists, designers, writers and performing artists.
      • Process leader who can engage visitors and lead dialogue
      • Venues: companies and organizations that want to open up their environment for events

    • For the sketch phase, you can not apply for financial funding. You can apply to be part of the sketch phase where you get the opportunity to form teams together with other applicants as well as coaching support to plan an implementation and create a renewed proposal for the implementation phase.

      Team can then in the second phase apply for financial funding to realize designed future prototypes and events.

      For the sketch phase, you can not apply for financial funding. You can apply to be part of the sketch phase where you get the opportunity to form teams together with other applicants as well as coaching support to plan an implementation and create a renewed proposal for the implementation phase.

      Team can then in the second phase apply for financial funding to realize designed future prototypes and events.

    • You apply by filling in the attached templates for project description and CV.

      The template has three parts:

      1.: Story of a future scenario (max 500 words)

      2.: First thoughts about future prototype & future experience

      3.: About you and roles in the project

      We will only assess applications for the sketch phase that have been submitted with a fully completed template.

      You apply by filling in the attached templates for project description and CV.

      The template has three parts:

      1.: Story of a future scenario (max 500 words)

      2.: First thoughts about future prototype & future experience

      3.: About you and roles in the project

      We will only assess applications for the sketch phase that have been submitted with a fully completed template.

    • What do we assess?

      We assess in the sketch phase according to the following criteria based on potential and actor.

      Potential

      • How relevant the story in the sketch is for different target groups
      • How accessible the prototype / event is to target groups in terms of intended location and process to attract visitors
      • The sketch's potential to inspire dialogue and its balance between dystopia and utopia

      Actor

      • How well role, place, knowledge and / or experience can contribute to the initiative's objective

      How do we rate?

      The sketch application is assessed by programme manager at Vinnova. Vinnova intends to grant a diversified portfolio with a balance of actors, areas and project orientations.

      What do we assess?

      We assess in the sketch phase according to the following criteria based on potential and actor.

      Potential

      • How relevant the story in the sketch is for different target groups
      • How accessible the prototype / event is to target groups in terms of intended location and process to attract visitors
      • The sketch's potential to inspire dialogue and its balance between dystopia and utopia

      Actor

      • How well role, place, knowledge and / or experience can contribute to the initiative's objective

      How do we rate?

      The sketch application is assessed by programme manager at Vinnova. Vinnova intends to grant a diversified portfolio with a balance of actors, areas and project orientations.

    • Who is the offer targeting?

      The second phase, the call, is open to applicant from the sketch phase.

      For the second phase, you can apply as an individual legal entity or together in consortia.

      What do we finance in the implementation phase?

      Activities you can apply for funding for

      The funding is planned to include the creation of physical prototypes and adaptation of environments to mimic possible futures as well as the creation of events with associated formats and methodology for structured conversations.

      Term for implementation and which activities you can apply for funding for may be detailed and updated.

      In addition funding, the projects also receive guidance from international coaches in speculative design

      Eligible costs

      Our funding is through funding. Funding for organizations that conduct financial activities is covered by rules on state support. The rules govern, among other things, the types of costs and the proportion of them that may be covered by funding.

      Project can use funding for eligible costs directly linked to:

      • Production costs (create, shape, build) physical prototypes, objects, environments.
      • Production and implementation of the event
      • Personnel costs, consulting costs
      • Communication ( support to document your project, for example documentary)

      How much can you apply for in the implementation phase?

      During the second phase, only those who have participated in the sketch phase can apply for funding. Our budget is a total of SEK 5 million, which we see will be divided between 5–10 projects project.

      Assessments of received applications

      What do we assess?

      We assess before implementation, according to the same criteria as for the sketch application with the addition of the following criteria based on potential, actors and feasibility.

      The assessment criteria may be updated.

      Potential

      • The project's ability to describe and bring to life one of the four worlds
      • How well the planned project can relate to and inspire in current areas for sustainable growth and community development
      • project Potential for projects to directly or indirectly reach many of the initiative's target groups
      • Potential for designs to create discussions that are relevant and inclusive for both women and men as well as people with different backgrounds
      • Potential for lessons learned and project results to be taken forward even after Vinnova's support
      • How well interaction and lessons learned from visitors are taken into account

      Actors

      • Applicant's mandate and site suitability for the project
      • Diversity within the team with regard to backgrounds and competencies
      • The effectiveness of the team composition for the implementation of the event
      • Team composition with regard to gender equality and equality

      Feasibility

      • How effectively the aim and objective of the effort is achieved according to the project plan and budget
      • Realism in project plan and budget
      How do we rate?

      Proposal for implementation is assessed by programme manager from Vinnova and external evaluator. Vinnova intends to finance a diversified portfolio with a balance of actors, areas and project orientations.

      Decision and term

      About our decisions

      How much each party in the project is granted in funding is stated in the decision. Funding planned in the second stage (implementation) is granted with the support of de minimis.

      The basis for support is stated in the decision and also governs which costs are eligible.

      Our decision to grant or reject a proposal cannot be appealed.

      Term for granted funding

      For funding, our general terms and conditions for funding apply. The terms include rules on project agreements, conditions for payment, follow-up, reporting and utilization of results.

      Our rules and term for funding

      The following special conditionsalso apply to everyone who is granted funding in the second stage of this call:

      Supplementary special conditions can be decided for individual projects project.

      If you do not follow our term, you may be liable for a refund. This also applies if you have been granted funding incorrectly or with an excessive amount.

      Who is the offer targeting?

      The second phase, the call, is open to applicant from the sketch phase.

      For the second phase, you can apply as an individual legal entity or together in consortia.

      What do we finance in the implementation phase?

      Activities you can apply for funding for

      The funding is planned to include the creation of physical prototypes and adaptation of environments to mimic possible futures as well as the creation of events with associated formats and methodology for structured conversations.

      Term for implementation and which activities you can apply for funding for may be detailed and updated.

      In addition funding, the projects also receive guidance from international coaches in speculative design

      Eligible costs

      Our funding is through funding. Funding for organizations that conduct financial activities is covered by rules on state support. The rules govern, among other things, the types of costs and the proportion of them that may be covered by funding.

      Project can use funding for eligible costs directly linked to:

      • Production costs (create, shape, build) physical prototypes, objects, environments.
      • Production and implementation of the event
      • Personnel costs, consulting costs
      • Communication ( support to document your project, for example documentary)

      How much can you apply for in the implementation phase?

      During the second phase, only those who have participated in the sketch phase can apply for funding. Our budget is a total of SEK 5 million, which we see will be divided between 5–10 projects project.

      Assessments of received applications

      What do we assess?

      We assess before implementation, according to the same criteria as for the sketch application with the addition of the following criteria based on potential, actors and feasibility.

      The assessment criteria may be updated.

      Potential

      • The project's ability to describe and bring to life one of the four worlds
      • How well the planned project can relate to and inspire in current areas for sustainable growth and community development
      • project Potential for projects to directly or indirectly reach many of the initiative's target groups
      • Potential for designs to create discussions that are relevant and inclusive for both women and men as well as people with different backgrounds
      • Potential for lessons learned and project results to be taken forward even after Vinnova's support
      • How well interaction and lessons learned from visitors are taken into account

      Actors

      • Applicant's mandate and site suitability for the project
      • Diversity within the team with regard to backgrounds and competencies
      • The effectiveness of the team composition for the implementation of the event
      • Team composition with regard to gender equality and equality

      Feasibility

      • How effectively the aim and objective of the effort is achieved according to the project plan and budget
      • Realism in project plan and budget
      How do we rate?

      Proposal for implementation is assessed by programme manager from Vinnova and external evaluator. Vinnova intends to finance a diversified portfolio with a balance of actors, areas and project orientations.

      Decision and term

      About our decisions

      How much each party in the project is granted in funding is stated in the decision. Funding planned in the second stage (implementation) is granted with the support of de minimis.

      The basis for support is stated in the decision and also governs which costs are eligible.

      Our decision to grant or reject a proposal cannot be appealed.

      Term for granted funding

      For funding, our general terms and conditions for funding apply. The terms include rules on project agreements, conditions for payment, follow-up, reporting and utilization of results.

      Our rules and term for funding

      The following special conditionsalso apply to everyone who is granted funding in the second stage of this call:

      Supplementary special conditions can be decided for individual projects project.

      If you do not follow our term, you may be liable for a refund. This also applies if you have been granted funding incorrectly or with an excessive amount.

    • Registration

      You do not need to register for the workshop and you do not need to have submitted your outline. You just have to show up by clicking on the link. No preparation is required, but we assume that you have read the entire announcement text (this text) and through the questions we want in the sketch.

      The structure and content of the workshop

      The workshop will be held digitally at Teams ( Link to the workshop ) on 24/2 at 15: 00-17: 00. The workshop aims to help all participants to better understand which parties they may need and how they can get in touch with them - both those who participate in the workshop and others. We will not design the workshop to create partnerships between you. We create conditions, but it is your responsibility to find each other and form constellations to continue the work of writing a proposal.

      Registration

      You do not need to register for the workshop and you do not need to have submitted your outline. You just have to show up by clicking on the link. No preparation is required, but we assume that you have read the entire announcement text (this text) and through the questions we want in the sketch.

      The structure and content of the workshop

      The workshop will be held digitally at Teams ( Link to the workshop ) on 24/2 at 15: 00-17: 00. The workshop aims to help all participants to better understand which parties they may need and how they can get in touch with them - both those who participate in the workshop and others. We will not design the workshop to create partnerships between you. We create conditions, but it is your responsibility to find each other and form constellations to continue the work of writing a proposal.

    • What is speculative design?

      The term was coined by Anthony Dunne, professor and head of the design interaction program at Royal College of Art, and Fiona Raby, professor of industrial design at the University of Applied Arts in Vienna. The two popularized the concept in their book, Speculative Everything: Design, Dreaming, and Social Dreaming. They write that "Speculative design is based on imagination and aims to open up new perspectives on what are sometimes called" wicked problems ", to create spaces for discussion and debate about alternative ways of being, and to inspire and encourage people's imagination to flow freely ".

      Enligt Dunne and Raby, designers should not only address today's problems, but also take a look into the future and ask, "How can we address future design challenges?" Where classic designers often work with form, speculative design broadens the scope and addresses the biggest issues in society.

      What is meant by a future prototype?

      A future prototype is a "thing of the future". It can be a product or gadget that is deliberately developed to evoke thoughts about the future. But it can also be a process, a service, information material or an environment that you can imagine will exist in the future. It can also be about experiences that make it easier for participants to imagine what a possible future might look like. By making futures concrete and understandable - albeit in a fantasy world - we can also more easily make decisions and have a dialogue about the future. A future prototype should not be any strange gadget but should tell something significant about a possible future with the potential to create commitment and dialogue.

      What is meant by event?

      In this context, we mean an event or similar in which target groups, spectators and the general public can take part in future prototypes and interact with the prototypes. It can be a series of workshops, performances or installations where people come into contact with future prototypes.

      Why is this being done?

      Art and culture have always been a means of creating thoughts about what could exist and what society might look like in the future. Different forms of design can help us to raise issues, discuss realities that could exist but do not yet exist and understand complex future contexts. But we believe that art and culture are not enough all the way. We believe that a combination of designs is needed together with qualified guesses about different possible futures (scenario design, strategic foresight, signal scanning and strategic analysis) and structured formats for dialogue and conversation. We believe that emerging methods based on forward-looking speculative design, sometimes referred to as Experiental Futures, which combines design with studies of the future to allow participants to experience fragments of the future in true-to-life fantasy environments, can be one of the most promising methods for achieving broad inclusive conversations about possible futures and the role of innovations in shaping them.

      What is expected to be sent into the sketch phase?

      It is expected to fill in requested templates. In principle, we want a short story from the future that can engage and interest readers as well as a few lines about you who are applying - CV and what role you want to take in a later implementation project.

      When to send in the sketch phase?

      We assess and decide on applications on an ongoing basis, so the recommendation is to send in the sketch application as soon as you are ready. Last application date is March 10, at 14.

      Four Worlds - What's It?

      The instructions for how to fill in the template for the sketch application describe four possible general developments in the future in the form of four fictional worlds. We want the stories to take place in one of these worlds.

      You describe different roles - what is meant?

      We believe that the design of a possible future is best done in teams that consist of different roles. Someone may be needed who knows the basics of foresight work, someone who knows how to shape fantasies, someone who can facilitate conversations with the audience and someone who has access to an exciting place where future scenarios can unfold. There may also be other roles in order for a design of a possible, inspiring future to take place.

      Do you have to have all the roles?

      No, it is enough to apply as one role, but if you want, you can also apply as a larger constellation that together has several roles.

      What does the “sketch phase” mean?

      We want to make it easy to join the effort and therefore first only ask for an outline - a short story about a future experience and a few words about how you want to shape your story. The idea is then to have the chance to further develop your outline, combine it with others who apply, complement each other's teams and together create an even better story and plan for how it can be designed.

      Does everyone who seeks to further develop their story and collaborate with each other?

      No. Some who apply may from the beginning have a concept they want to realize and possess all the roles that may be needed. Others can find partners in the sketch phase. How much you want to collaborate and participate in activities that Vinnova organizes in the sketch phase is voluntary.

      What is to be created in the implementation phase - how is it related to the sketch?

      In the sketch, stories about events and experiences that take place in the future are sent in. In the implementation, we want to shape such stories. But it is conceivable that it will not be exactly the same stories, but rather further developments or combinations of stories from the submitted contributions that are embodied in the implementation.

      Must you have applied with an outline to be able to participate in the implementation phase?

      Yes. To be able to apply for the second phase, the implementation phase - where funding can be granted, you must first have applied for and been granted participation in the sketch phase.

      What is meant by coaches?

      Team has the opportunity to receive support from an international specialist in speculative design in the sketch phase and during the implementation of the project. Applicant whose sketches are granted have the opportunity to receive coaching to develop their idea and project application for implementation. Those who are granted funding for the implementation of the project also have the opportunity to receive continued coaching during the project period to realize the future prototype and the event.

      Do you have to take part in the coaching?

      No. Different applicant may have come different distances in team composition and idea for implementation. Coaching and matchmaking is a voluntary offer. Applications for the implementation phase will be assessed in competition with each other according to the assessment criteria, regardless of whether the offer of coaching has been used or not.

      Can you submit several applications?

      You can only submit one proposal per organization in the sketch phase.

      Do you lock yourself into an ill-considered idea by submitting an outline?

      No. The sketch is a starting point - a first idea of what you want to do. Some applications may have a well thought out and relatively clear outline. Others may be less complete. The same goes for partnerships: some may have all the actors and roles needed with them from the beginning while others are looking for partners. The idea is to participate in a co-creative process to complete a more detailed proposal in the next step, the implementation.

      Should the prototypes be seen as a finished end results?

      The purpose of the initiative is to create conversations about the future. We like to see that conversations and interaction with target groups influence and further develop the prototypes. But we also want some form of closing, exhibition or event to be held in 2022.

      How does the effort go together with Vinnova's other effort on foresight?

      The initiative has been created from Emerging innovations - one of Vinnova's 10 priority areas. The area performs or participates in a number of initiatives in foresight - not least when it comes to developing Vinnova's internal ability to lead from the future, to systematize work with scanning and external monitoring and to establish collaborations with international actors. However, there are currently no other initiatives similar to Future Prototypes at the moment. Vinnova will probably make more similar efforts - with or without connection to Future Prototypes - but no such decision has been made.

      How do we apply if we do not have a complete team ready from the start?

      It is not critical to have a complete team in place when submitting the sketch. After the sketch has been submitted and possibly granted, there is some time to build your constellation in the best possible way to create a new proposal for a funded project in the implementation phase. The sketch phase is open and those who submit sketches will be public, which means that the applicant can find contact information themselves and more easily establish contact with suitable partners. Vinnova intends to facilitate matchmaking to some extent, but the projects are encouraged and responsible for establishing contact.

      What is considered a "complete team"?

      Roles expected in a team are future strategists, creators of various kinds, as well as those who are good at conducting dialogue and the role of site owner - or at least access to a more or less public place where future prototypes and events can be held. The roles can be competencies that one and the same individual has. It is not certain that all of these roles are required and there may also be other roles and competencies that we have not mentioned. What is a complete team depends on what you intend to perform that meets the aim and objective of the effort.

      We have an environment but no outline - how do we apply?

      It is possible to search with an "environment" where it is described with suggestions on how it could be used. You describe this by formulating a narrative - a story in your outline - that takes place in an imaginary future in your environment.

      Is a physical site an eligibility requirements for the prototype?

      We mainly imagine a physical place with physical artifacts, but a digital experience is also conceivable. We are looking for conversations and dialogue that the prototype gives rise to between different target groups such as decision makers, actors in the innovation system and the general public. It is therefore important that the prototype is available to humans so that such conversations can start and also that the conversations can take place in an orderly manner and are captured to create insights about thoughts about the future and iteratively improve prototypes and conversation formats.

      Is it predetermined where prototypes will be displayed?

      No, the projects decide which environment they want to use to display the prototypes. Thoughts about this can probably be developed during the sketch phase. However, we want it to take place in a place that is accessible to Swedes in general - that is, in Sweden or in digital contexts that are generally accessible from Sweden.

      Can the target group and prototype be "narrow"?

      (Can, for example, the total defense within a municipality be a target group and artifacts of interest to this target group constitute future prototypes). It is difficult to decide in advance, but in general, Vinnova sees that neither the target group nor the discussion topics that the prototypes should attract should be too narrow.

      How detailed does the sketch need to be? Can we experiment further during the project?

      We strive for flexibility during the sketch phase to make room for creativity. The sketch will help us get started and give us an understanding of what you currently think you want to do. You do not need to rework the sketch. You can experiment further during the sketch phase. What you apply for in the second phase must be assessed independently without taking into account the original sketch. What you send in the second step, however, you must relate to.

      In vinnova's eservices portal, you are asked for information that relates to several years ahead - what time frames apply?

      Some of our systems are designed for general use and it is possible that something went wrong there. We will investigate whether it can be changed so that no misunderstandings occur. In any case, this effort, including the second stage, applies in 2022.

      In vinnova's eservices portal, only the coordinating party is asked. How do I add more actors to my project?

      Some of our systems are designed for general use and it is possible that something went wrong there. In the sketch phase, we only ask for 1 actor per outline ( coordinator). It is possible to enter other parties in the appendix - both those you already have cooperation with or those you wish to create collaborations with. In the second step, the implementation, you will fill in another proposal and in it you can include all parties that will be involved.

      Is this a long-term effort - do you have more plans for the future?

      This is a pilot venture. We have no concrete plans for any continuation, but that is not unlikely.

      What times apply to the event on the 24th?

      15: 00-17: 00.

      Can you organize a forum that makes it easier for us to find partners?

      We will make some efforts to facilitate but have no plans to set up a specific forum for this right now. Until then, you can always have a dialogue on LinkedIn if you want.

      Do you prefer matchmaking within the framework of the project or rather a complete solution?

      We will help with matchmaking if there is a need and when we see connections and opportunities for this, but above all the projects need to work with it.

      Is it an eligibility requirements that the sketches sent must be linked to environmental and climate challenges?

      We want the sketches to be connected to one of the four worlds by taking place in the future in one of them. The sketches should give us clues, ideas, questions, thoughts in the form of descriptions of concrete things, events, environments that are signs (evidence, artifacts, designs) that something "has" changed. The changes should be about how society (more or less) has managed to handle the environmental and climate crisis and / or its consequences.

      How many project will be funded?

      There is no funding in the sketch phase. In the implementation phase, we have budgeted SEK 5 million in grant money. We believe that this means 5-10 project.

      Can international actors apply?

      We can only provide funding to actors who have activities in Sweden. A project can apply to use part of its budget to purchase, for example, consulting services from international actors.

      Does matchmaking start when the sketch is clear?

      You can advantageously start the matchmaking yourself whenever you want. In order for us to be able to assist, we need to have the sketch submitted so that we receive contact information and some understanding of what you can and want to do, what you want to supplement with, which partners you are looking for, etc. We do not see this until the proposal is clearly marked (submitted). We will not offer other channels to take in that information. We will not actively seek out that information either. The procedure we want to use is the sketch procedure. However, we can not promise in advance what efforts we will make or when we start these efforts to facilitate matchmaking. It depends on what is requested and what you intend to do. The announcement page will be updated with information about matchmaking and activities we organize as soon as we have these decided.

      If you find a party during the sketch phase, can we add it then?

      The sketch phase is there for the proposal (and even more the project) to be as good as possible. No additions are needed to the sketch application. However, you can include several parties in the proposal for implementation. This is another proposal where we will request more information and which will form the basis for decisions on funding.

      Can an event be held in Denmark?

      We focus on public spaces in Sweden or digital public spaces that are accessible from Sweden. The grant can be used to design these spaces and to hold events in these spaces. We think it would be good with events abroad as well (in addition to the events being held in Sweden) but it will probably not be possible to use funding to cover direct costs linked to events abroad. Exact term for the implementation phase are not yet clear. It is possible to imagine that the design work is carried out with the help of funding (provided that events are held in Sweden) and that you can carry out additional events (copies / adaptations) abroad where all extra costs are financed in another way.

      What time perspective do you think of for the prototypes?

      We have not specified a year, but we imagine the time when our great-grandchildren live.

      Do you need an organization active to apply?

      In the sketch phase, anyone can apply. Individual or organization or team no matter where you live or come from. But to later take direct part of a funding, you need to be a Swedish legal entity,

      Will co-financing be required in the implementation phase?

      We do not intend to require co-financing, but it depends on the basis for support we use in the implementation phase. The support basis can place restrictions on the degree of support or the size of the grant.

      Can you develop around the four worlds and the thoughts behind them?

      The worlds are there to trigger sketches and collaborations on important issues for future generations. One axis is about how the climate and the environment are (less or more changed climate) as a consequence of long-term mainly human impact. The second axis is about the main principles of how we choose to address the challenges from now until the time when our great-grandchildren live. That axis contains the combination of many merged trends. We do not want to describe it in too much detail, but rather leave it open to interpretation and further development - but roughly speaking, it is on the one hand about technological innovation, about centralized large-scale solutions where humans change their external world (through technology, infrastructure investments, increased green growth, government control, etc.). The other extreme is more about social innovation and people's individual initiatives, willingness and ability to change their lifestyles and create new types of collaborations and organizations. Of course, all 4 worlds are already in combination today and will probably do so in the future - to varying degrees in different parts of the world. Use them (and develop them) as you wish to create relevant dialogues about our future.

      Steps 1 and 2 run partly in parallel - what's the idea?

      We want to make it possible to develop its outline and team during the sketch phase and that it will be as long as possible. At the same time, we want it to be possible for those who are suitable to submit their proposal and get started as soon as possible for the implementation project. The compromise was to partially have the processes overlapping.

      Do you get an answer or feedback on the sketches before March 11?

      Maybe. It depends on when the sketches come in and how many come in. We have the ambition to respond earlier than that because we want the co-creative process and matching to start as soon as possible. We also encourage you to start matchmaking and co-creation on your own initiative even before Vinnova's outlinefeedback.

      What should an outline look like? Drawing, film or picture?

      You unfortunately need to follow the call template, which means that the sketch needs to be in the form of text.

      Can you guarantee that all information on this page is consistent, up to date and correct?

      We can guarantee that we will try to achieve this. But at the same time, we want to share information and thoughts on an ongoing basis rather than filing on it indefinitely. Then there can sometimes be contradictions or we may forget to delete old information when it becomes obsolete as the effort develops. We would like to develop the effort with a better understanding of you and your ideas, which we want to strive to get during the journey.

      Can we apply as an organization with a possible future scenario that we see a need for support in designing and concretizing various expert competencies that apply to join the call?

      Yes. You can apply to be part of the sketch phase by submitting a future scenario and other things we ask for in the template for proposal. It is possible that the submitted future scenario will constitute, be part of or at least influence what is designed at a later stage together with several parties.

      We missed an information opportunity. Is it recorded?

      No, the information sessions are not recorded. Questions and answers from these are included in this text.

      We missed an information opportunity. Can you still apply?

      Yes, you can apply even if you have not attended an information meeting. The information sessions are completely voluntary.

      What is speculative design?

      The term was coined by Anthony Dunne, professor and head of the design interaction program at Royal College of Art, and Fiona Raby, professor of industrial design at the University of Applied Arts in Vienna. The two popularized the concept in their book, Speculative Everything: Design, Dreaming, and Social Dreaming. They write that "Speculative design is based on imagination and aims to open up new perspectives on what are sometimes called" wicked problems ", to create spaces for discussion and debate about alternative ways of being, and to inspire and encourage people's imagination to flow freely ".

      Enligt Dunne and Raby, designers should not only address today's problems, but also take a look into the future and ask, "How can we address future design challenges?" Where classic designers often work with form, speculative design broadens the scope and addresses the biggest issues in society.

      What is meant by a future prototype?

      A future prototype is a "thing of the future". It can be a product or gadget that is deliberately developed to evoke thoughts about the future. But it can also be a process, a service, information material or an environment that you can imagine will exist in the future. It can also be about experiences that make it easier for participants to imagine what a possible future might look like. By making futures concrete and understandable - albeit in a fantasy world - we can also more easily make decisions and have a dialogue about the future. A future prototype should not be any strange gadget but should tell something significant about a possible future with the potential to create commitment and dialogue.

      What is meant by event?

      In this context, we mean an event or similar in which target groups, spectators and the general public can take part in future prototypes and interact with the prototypes. It can be a series of workshops, performances or installations where people come into contact with future prototypes.

      Why is this being done?

      Art and culture have always been a means of creating thoughts about what could exist and what society might look like in the future. Different forms of design can help us to raise issues, discuss realities that could exist but do not yet exist and understand complex future contexts. But we believe that art and culture are not enough all the way. We believe that a combination of designs is needed together with qualified guesses about different possible futures (scenario design, strategic foresight, signal scanning and strategic analysis) and structured formats for dialogue and conversation. We believe that emerging methods based on forward-looking speculative design, sometimes referred to as Experiental Futures, which combines design with studies of the future to allow participants to experience fragments of the future in true-to-life fantasy environments, can be one of the most promising methods for achieving broad inclusive conversations about possible futures and the role of innovations in shaping them.

      What is expected to be sent into the sketch phase?

      It is expected to fill in requested templates. In principle, we want a short story from the future that can engage and interest readers as well as a few lines about you who are applying - CV and what role you want to take in a later implementation project.

      When to send in the sketch phase?

      We assess and decide on applications on an ongoing basis, so the recommendation is to send in the sketch application as soon as you are ready. Last application date is March 10, at 14.

      Four Worlds - What's It?

      The instructions for how to fill in the template for the sketch application describe four possible general developments in the future in the form of four fictional worlds. We want the stories to take place in one of these worlds.

      You describe different roles - what is meant?

      We believe that the design of a possible future is best done in teams that consist of different roles. Someone may be needed who knows the basics of foresight work, someone who knows how to shape fantasies, someone who can facilitate conversations with the audience and someone who has access to an exciting place where future scenarios can unfold. There may also be other roles in order for a design of a possible, inspiring future to take place.

      Do you have to have all the roles?

      No, it is enough to apply as one role, but if you want, you can also apply as a larger constellation that together has several roles.

      What does the “sketch phase” mean?

      We want to make it easy to join the effort and therefore first only ask for an outline - a short story about a future experience and a few words about how you want to shape your story. The idea is then to have the chance to further develop your outline, combine it with others who apply, complement each other's teams and together create an even better story and plan for how it can be designed.

      Does everyone who seeks to further develop their story and collaborate with each other?

      No. Some who apply may from the beginning have a concept they want to realize and possess all the roles that may be needed. Others can find partners in the sketch phase. How much you want to collaborate and participate in activities that Vinnova organizes in the sketch phase is voluntary.

      What is to be created in the implementation phase - how is it related to the sketch?

      In the sketch, stories about events and experiences that take place in the future are sent in. In the implementation, we want to shape such stories. But it is conceivable that it will not be exactly the same stories, but rather further developments or combinations of stories from the submitted contributions that are embodied in the implementation.

      Must you have applied with an outline to be able to participate in the implementation phase?

      Yes. To be able to apply for the second phase, the implementation phase - where funding can be granted, you must first have applied for and been granted participation in the sketch phase.

      What is meant by coaches?

      Team has the opportunity to receive support from an international specialist in speculative design in the sketch phase and during the implementation of the project. Applicant whose sketches are granted have the opportunity to receive coaching to develop their idea and project application for implementation. Those who are granted funding for the implementation of the project also have the opportunity to receive continued coaching during the project period to realize the future prototype and the event.

      Do you have to take part in the coaching?

      No. Different applicant may have come different distances in team composition and idea for implementation. Coaching and matchmaking is a voluntary offer. Applications for the implementation phase will be assessed in competition with each other according to the assessment criteria, regardless of whether the offer of coaching has been used or not.

      Can you submit several applications?

      You can only submit one proposal per organization in the sketch phase.

      Do you lock yourself into an ill-considered idea by submitting an outline?

      No. The sketch is a starting point - a first idea of what you want to do. Some applications may have a well thought out and relatively clear outline. Others may be less complete. The same goes for partnerships: some may have all the actors and roles needed with them from the beginning while others are looking for partners. The idea is to participate in a co-creative process to complete a more detailed proposal in the next step, the implementation.

      Should the prototypes be seen as a finished end results?

      The purpose of the initiative is to create conversations about the future. We like to see that conversations and interaction with target groups influence and further develop the prototypes. But we also want some form of closing, exhibition or event to be held in 2022.

      How does the effort go together with Vinnova's other effort on foresight?

      The initiative has been created from Emerging innovations - one of Vinnova's 10 priority areas. The area performs or participates in a number of initiatives in foresight - not least when it comes to developing Vinnova's internal ability to lead from the future, to systematize work with scanning and external monitoring and to establish collaborations with international actors. However, there are currently no other initiatives similar to Future Prototypes at the moment. Vinnova will probably make more similar efforts - with or without connection to Future Prototypes - but no such decision has been made.

      How do we apply if we do not have a complete team ready from the start?

      It is not critical to have a complete team in place when submitting the sketch. After the sketch has been submitted and possibly granted, there is some time to build your constellation in the best possible way to create a new proposal for a funded project in the implementation phase. The sketch phase is open and those who submit sketches will be public, which means that the applicant can find contact information themselves and more easily establish contact with suitable partners. Vinnova intends to facilitate matchmaking to some extent, but the projects are encouraged and responsible for establishing contact.

      What is considered a "complete team"?

      Roles expected in a team are future strategists, creators of various kinds, as well as those who are good at conducting dialogue and the role of site owner - or at least access to a more or less public place where future prototypes and events can be held. The roles can be competencies that one and the same individual has. It is not certain that all of these roles are required and there may also be other roles and competencies that we have not mentioned. What is a complete team depends on what you intend to perform that meets the aim and objective of the effort.

      We have an environment but no outline - how do we apply?

      It is possible to search with an "environment" where it is described with suggestions on how it could be used. You describe this by formulating a narrative - a story in your outline - that takes place in an imaginary future in your environment.

      Is a physical site an eligibility requirements for the prototype?

      We mainly imagine a physical place with physical artifacts, but a digital experience is also conceivable. We are looking for conversations and dialogue that the prototype gives rise to between different target groups such as decision makers, actors in the innovation system and the general public. It is therefore important that the prototype is available to humans so that such conversations can start and also that the conversations can take place in an orderly manner and are captured to create insights about thoughts about the future and iteratively improve prototypes and conversation formats.

      Is it predetermined where prototypes will be displayed?

      No, the projects decide which environment they want to use to display the prototypes. Thoughts about this can probably be developed during the sketch phase. However, we want it to take place in a place that is accessible to Swedes in general - that is, in Sweden or in digital contexts that are generally accessible from Sweden.

      Can the target group and prototype be "narrow"?

      (Can, for example, the total defense within a municipality be a target group and artifacts of interest to this target group constitute future prototypes). It is difficult to decide in advance, but in general, Vinnova sees that neither the target group nor the discussion topics that the prototypes should attract should be too narrow.

      How detailed does the sketch need to be? Can we experiment further during the project?

      We strive for flexibility during the sketch phase to make room for creativity. The sketch will help us get started and give us an understanding of what you currently think you want to do. You do not need to rework the sketch. You can experiment further during the sketch phase. What you apply for in the second phase must be assessed independently without taking into account the original sketch. What you send in the second step, however, you must relate to.

      In vinnova's eservices portal, you are asked for information that relates to several years ahead - what time frames apply?

      Some of our systems are designed for general use and it is possible that something went wrong there. We will investigate whether it can be changed so that no misunderstandings occur. In any case, this effort, including the second stage, applies in 2022.

      In vinnova's eservices portal, only the coordinating party is asked. How do I add more actors to my project?

      Some of our systems are designed for general use and it is possible that something went wrong there. In the sketch phase, we only ask for 1 actor per outline ( coordinator). It is possible to enter other parties in the appendix - both those you already have cooperation with or those you wish to create collaborations with. In the second step, the implementation, you will fill in another proposal and in it you can include all parties that will be involved.

      Is this a long-term effort - do you have more plans for the future?

      This is a pilot venture. We have no concrete plans for any continuation, but that is not unlikely.

      What times apply to the event on the 24th?

      15: 00-17: 00.

      Can you organize a forum that makes it easier for us to find partners?

      We will make some efforts to facilitate but have no plans to set up a specific forum for this right now. Until then, you can always have a dialogue on LinkedIn if you want.

      Do you prefer matchmaking within the framework of the project or rather a complete solution?

      We will help with matchmaking if there is a need and when we see connections and opportunities for this, but above all the projects need to work with it.

      Is it an eligibility requirements that the sketches sent must be linked to environmental and climate challenges?

      We want the sketches to be connected to one of the four worlds by taking place in the future in one of them. The sketches should give us clues, ideas, questions, thoughts in the form of descriptions of concrete things, events, environments that are signs (evidence, artifacts, designs) that something "has" changed. The changes should be about how society (more or less) has managed to handle the environmental and climate crisis and / or its consequences.

      How many project will be funded?

      There is no funding in the sketch phase. In the implementation phase, we have budgeted SEK 5 million in grant money. We believe that this means 5-10 project.

      Can international actors apply?

      We can only provide funding to actors who have activities in Sweden. A project can apply to use part of its budget to purchase, for example, consulting services from international actors.

      Does matchmaking start when the sketch is clear?

      You can advantageously start the matchmaking yourself whenever you want. In order for us to be able to assist, we need to have the sketch submitted so that we receive contact information and some understanding of what you can and want to do, what you want to supplement with, which partners you are looking for, etc. We do not see this until the proposal is clearly marked (submitted). We will not offer other channels to take in that information. We will not actively seek out that information either. The procedure we want to use is the sketch procedure. However, we can not promise in advance what efforts we will make or when we start these efforts to facilitate matchmaking. It depends on what is requested and what you intend to do. The announcement page will be updated with information about matchmaking and activities we organize as soon as we have these decided.

      If you find a party during the sketch phase, can we add it then?

      The sketch phase is there for the proposal (and even more the project) to be as good as possible. No additions are needed to the sketch application. However, you can include several parties in the proposal for implementation. This is another proposal where we will request more information and which will form the basis for decisions on funding.

      Can an event be held in Denmark?

      We focus on public spaces in Sweden or digital public spaces that are accessible from Sweden. The grant can be used to design these spaces and to hold events in these spaces. We think it would be good with events abroad as well (in addition to the events being held in Sweden) but it will probably not be possible to use funding to cover direct costs linked to events abroad. Exact term for the implementation phase are not yet clear. It is possible to imagine that the design work is carried out with the help of funding (provided that events are held in Sweden) and that you can carry out additional events (copies / adaptations) abroad where all extra costs are financed in another way.

      What time perspective do you think of for the prototypes?

      We have not specified a year, but we imagine the time when our great-grandchildren live.

      Do you need an organization active to apply?

      In the sketch phase, anyone can apply. Individual or organization or team no matter where you live or come from. But to later take direct part of a funding, you need to be a Swedish legal entity,

      Will co-financing be required in the implementation phase?

      We do not intend to require co-financing, but it depends on the basis for support we use in the implementation phase. The support basis can place restrictions on the degree of support or the size of the grant.

      Can you develop around the four worlds and the thoughts behind them?

      The worlds are there to trigger sketches and collaborations on important issues for future generations. One axis is about how the climate and the environment are (less or more changed climate) as a consequence of long-term mainly human impact. The second axis is about the main principles of how we choose to address the challenges from now until the time when our great-grandchildren live. That axis contains the combination of many merged trends. We do not want to describe it in too much detail, but rather leave it open to interpretation and further development - but roughly speaking, it is on the one hand about technological innovation, about centralized large-scale solutions where humans change their external world (through technology, infrastructure investments, increased green growth, government control, etc.). The other extreme is more about social innovation and people's individual initiatives, willingness and ability to change their lifestyles and create new types of collaborations and organizations. Of course, all 4 worlds are already in combination today and will probably do so in the future - to varying degrees in different parts of the world. Use them (and develop them) as you wish to create relevant dialogues about our future.

      Steps 1 and 2 run partly in parallel - what's the idea?

      We want to make it possible to develop its outline and team during the sketch phase and that it will be as long as possible. At the same time, we want it to be possible for those who are suitable to submit their proposal and get started as soon as possible for the implementation project. The compromise was to partially have the processes overlapping.

      Do you get an answer or feedback on the sketches before March 11?

      Maybe. It depends on when the sketches come in and how many come in. We have the ambition to respond earlier than that because we want the co-creative process and matching to start as soon as possible. We also encourage you to start matchmaking and co-creation on your own initiative even before Vinnova's outlinefeedback.

      What should an outline look like? Drawing, film or picture?

      You unfortunately need to follow the call template, which means that the sketch needs to be in the form of text.

      Can you guarantee that all information on this page is consistent, up to date and correct?

      We can guarantee that we will try to achieve this. But at the same time, we want to share information and thoughts on an ongoing basis rather than filing on it indefinitely. Then there can sometimes be contradictions or we may forget to delete old information when it becomes obsolete as the effort develops. We would like to develop the effort with a better understanding of you and your ideas, which we want to strive to get during the journey.

      Can we apply as an organization with a possible future scenario that we see a need for support in designing and concretizing various expert competencies that apply to join the call?

      Yes. You can apply to be part of the sketch phase by submitting a future scenario and other things we ask for in the template for proposal. It is possible that the submitted future scenario will constitute, be part of or at least influence what is designed at a later stage together with several parties.

      We missed an information opportunity. Is it recorded?

      No, the information sessions are not recorded. Questions and answers from these are included in this text.

      We missed an information opportunity. Can you still apply?

      Yes, you can apply even if you have not attended an information meeting. The information sessions are completely voluntary.

    • Date
      Change
      15 Feb 2022
      Corrections ffa in formatting
      14 Feb 2022
      Collected and updated information regarding workshop on 24/2 2022 under a new paragraph
      08 Feb 2022
      Added 3 pieces in Questions and Answers
      03 Feb 2022
      Added about 30 Questions and answers about the announcement from the information meeting on 31/1 2022 and changed the name of the title
      25 Jan 2022
      Added 3 \"Frequently asked questions about the call\"
      21 Jan 2022
      Changed to \"Frequently asked questions about the call\"
      21 Jan 2022
      Release version
      Date
      Change
      15 Feb 2022
      Corrections ffa in formatting
      14 Feb 2022
      Collected and updated information regarding workshop on 24/2 2022 under a new paragraph
      08 Feb 2022
      Added 3 pieces in Questions and Answers
      03 Feb 2022
      Added about 30 Questions and answers about the announcement from the information meeting on 31/1 2022 and changed the name of the title
      25 Jan 2022
      Added 3 \"Frequently asked questions about the call\"
      21 Jan 2022
      Changed to \"Frequently asked questions about the call\"
      21 Jan 2022
      Release version

    How to apply

    To apply for funding, you need to log in and complete an application form in our eServices portal. The application form contains questions about your project, the participants taking part in the project and your budget. 

    How to apply for funding

    Download document templates for your attachments

    Plesae download the templates for the documents you need to attach to your application such as a CV or project description.

    Anvisning (pdf, 174 kB) Mall för projektbeskrivning (docx, 30 kB) Mall för CV (docx, 44 kB)

    This happens when the call is closed

    Once your proposal has been registered, we will email a confirmation to the person in charge of the user account and to the project manager and company signatory. This may take a few hours after the call is closed. If you have not received a confirmation within 24 hours after the call has closed, get in touch with us.

    When the call is closed, you can not change or fill in any new information. Then you can only complete your proposal if we ask for it.

    Who can read your proposal?

    Applications submitted to us become public documents. But we do not disclose information about the business, inventions or research results if it can be assumed that someone is suffering financial damage if the information is shown.

    This means that we must release the documents if someone requests them. However, we keep confidential the information that we believe could cause financial damage if it is disclosed.

    How we handle public documents and confidentiality

    Any questions?

    If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.

    Netta Korhonen

    Handläggare

    +46 8 473 31 32

    Liselott Bergman

    Kommunikatör

    +46 8 473 31 11

    Jenny Johansson

    Administratör

    +46 8 473 30 13

    Erik Borälv

    Utlysningsansvarig

    +46 8 473 32 22

    Teknisk support

    +46 8 473 32 99

    Reference number 2021-05146