What does BIC Factory do?
Our goal is to discover and support young, promising entrepreneurs who want to start their own company in Umeå. We offer a creative environment with cozy, top-modern and affordable offices, access to established business networks, further education and guidance from an experienced project manager as well as from other entrepreneurs. BIC Factory is situated in the heart of the largest business centre in Umeå; here the companies can stay for up to two years and our ambition is to help them reach the stars.

BIC Factory has since the start in 1998 created jobs for over a hundred young entrepreneurs. A total of 57 companies have grown up in our creative atmosphere and more than 80 percent of them are still active. In other words, BIC Factory is a very good example of how a region successfully can support young entrepreneurs.

Why was BIC Factory started?
BIC Factory was established in 1998 as a independent idea and business developing centre. The goal stated for the operation was to identify and support young entrepreneurs in the ages 18-40. The purpose was to develop models and methods for managing a lasting, long-term growth of young entrepreneurs within a region. In the fall of 1998 a project manager was recruited and during the spring of 1999 the office building was prepared. A first recruitment of companies was held shortly thereafter.

The project was started with support from a wide range of partners, who wanted more young entrepreneurs to get the opportunity to realise their business concepts. Partners included for instance the municipality of Umeå, local banks, venture capitalist companies and several local project managers.

Who supports BIC Factory?
BIC Factory is financed by the municipality of Umeå, Länsstyrelsen (the County Administrative Board), EU structural funding along with Umeå Kommunföretag, an organisation which has the mission to create growth in Umeå by supporting and developing the local industry.

How do I become a part of BIC Factory?
To start your own business at BIC Factory, you need to apply and be evaluated by our Project Manager. If you wish to do so, or if you have further questions, you are most welcome to contact us.