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Start Your Own Business

Guidance on setting up your own business in Sundsvall, including regulations, permits, and support systems.

Sections

1. Understand the Business Environment in Sundsvall

Sundsvall is a hub for industries such as forestry, IT, manufacturing, and services. The city also has a growing startup scene, with support for innovation and sustainability-focused businesses. The local government and organizations actively encourage entrepreneurship, making it a great place to start a business.


2. Choose a Business Structure

In Sweden, you can choose from several types of business entities. The most common ones are:

  • Sole Trader (Enskild Firma): Ideal for small businesses or freelancers. You are personally responsible for the business's finances.
  • Limited Company (Aktiebolag, AB): A separate legal entity. Requires a minimum share capital of SEK 25,000.
  • Trading Partnership (Handelsbolag): A partnership where two or more people share responsibility.
  • Limited Partnership (Kommanditbolag): Similar to a trading partnership but with limited liability for some partners.
  • Economic Association (Ekonomisk Förening): Suitable for cooperatives.

Recommendation: If you’re starting a small business, a Sole Trader is the simplest option. For larger ventures or if you want to limit personal liability, consider a Limited Company.


3. Register Your Business

All businesses in Sweden must be registered with the Swedish Companies Registration Office (Bolagsverket) and the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket).

Steps to Register:

  1. Choose a Business Name:

    • Ensure the name is unique and not already registered. You can check this on the Bolagsverket website.
    • For Limited Companies, the name must include "AB."
  2. Register with Bolagsverket:

    • For Sole Traders, registration is optional but recommended.
    • For Limited Companies, registration is mandatory.
    • Cost: SEK 1,200–1,400 for online registration; SEK 1,500–1,900 for paper registration.
  3. Register for Taxes with Skatteverket:

    • Apply for an F-tax certificate (F-skatt) to pay business taxes.
    • Register for VAT (Moms) if your turnover exceeds SEK 80,000 annually.
    • Register as an employer if you plan to hire staff.
  4. Bank Account:

    • Open a Swedish business bank account to manage your finances.

4. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

Depending on your business type, you may need specific permits or licenses. Common examples include:

  • Food and Beverage Businesses: Require permits from the Environmental Office (Miljökontoret) and Alcohol Licensing Board (Alkoholhandläggare) if serving alcohol.
  • Construction and Real Estate: May require building permits from the Sundsvall Municipality.
  • Health and Beauty Services: Require health and safety inspections.

Local Consideration: Sundsvall Municipality has a Business Service Office (Näringslivskontoret) that can guide you through the permit process.


5. Costs Involved

Here’s an overview of the typical costs:

  • Business Registration:
    • SEK 1,200–1,900 (depending on the method and business type).
  • Share Capital for Limited Companies:
    • SEK 25,000 (minimum).
  • Accounting and Legal Services:
    • SEK 5,000–10,000 annually (varies based on complexity).
  • Office Space:
    • Co-working spaces in Sundsvall start at SEK 1,500–3,000/month.
    • Renting a small office costs SEK 5,000–10,000/month.
  • Insurance:
    • Business insurance costs SEK 2,000–5,000 annually, depending on coverage.

6. Local Support Services for Entrepreneurs

Sundsvall offers several resources and organizations to support entrepreneurs:

  • Näringslivsbolaget (Sundsvall Business Development Agency):

    • Provides free advice, networking opportunities, and guidance on starting a business in Sundsvall.
    • Website: näringslivsbolaget.se
  • Almi Företagspartner:

    • Offers loans, business development programs, and mentoring for startups.
    • Website: almi.se
  • NyföretagarCentrum (Startup Center):

  • Co-working Spaces:

    • Examples include House Be Sundsvall and Grönborg, which offer flexible office solutions and networking events.

7. Cultural and Local Considerations

  • Work-Life Balance: Swedes value work-life balance, so businesses that promote sustainability, flexibility, and employee well-being are well-received.
  • Language: While most Swedes speak English, learning basic Swedish can help you connect with local customers and partners.
  • Networking: Attend local business events and join Sundsvall’s business networks to build relationships.
  • Sustainability: Sundsvall is committed to environmental sustainability. Businesses that align with green practices are highly encouraged.

8. Taxation and Accounting

  • Corporate Tax Rate: 20.6% for Limited Companies.
  • VAT Rates:
    • Standard: 25%
    • Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages: 12%
    • Cultural and Tourism Services: 6%
  • Accounting Requirements:
    • All businesses must maintain proper accounting records.
    • Hire a certified accountant or use accounting software like Fortnox or Visma.

9. Hiring Employees

If you plan to hire staff, you must:

  • Register as an employer with Skatteverket.
  • Comply with Swedish labor laws, including offering collective agreements, paid leave, and pensions.
  • Provide a safe and inclusive workplace.

Average Salaries in Sundsvall:

  • Entry-level positions: SEK 25,000–30,000/month.
  • Skilled professionals: SEK 35,000–50,000/month.

10. Resources for Immigrant Entrepreneurs

If you’re an immigrant, additional resources are available:

  • Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket):
    • Ensure you have the correct visa or residence permit to start a business.
    • Website: migrationsverket.se
  • SFI (Swedish for Immigrants):
    • Free Swedish language courses to help you integrate.
  • EURES (European Employment Services):
    • Provides information on working and living in Sweden.

11. Steps to Get Started

  1. Research your business idea and market in Sundsvall.
  2. Choose a business structure and register with Bolagsverket and Skatteverket.
  3. Secure funding and open a business bank account.
  4. Obtain necessary permits and licenses.
  5. Set up your office or workspace.
  6. Market your business and start operations.

By following these steps and utilizing the resources available in Sundsvall, you’ll be well-prepared to launch and grow your business. Good luck with your entrepreneurial journey!