Sundsvall
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:
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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."
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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.
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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.
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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:
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Näringslivsbolaget (Sundsvall Business Development Agency):
- Provides free advice, networking opportunities, and guidance on starting a business in Sundsvall.
- Website: näringslivsbolaget.se
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Almi Företagspartner:
- Offers loans, business development programs, and mentoring for startups.
- Website: almi.se
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NyföretagarCentrum (Startup Center):
- Provides free consultations and workshops for new entrepreneurs.
- Website: nyforetagarcentrum.se
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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
- Research your business idea and market in Sundsvall.
- Choose a business structure and register with Bolagsverket and Skatteverket.
- Secure funding and open a business bank account.
- Obtain necessary permits and licenses.
- Set up your office or workspace.
- 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!