The business accelerator program offers several advantages for startups that are ready to scale up or expand into international markets. Each company gains access to handpicked business coaches directly from the industry.
One of these business coaches is Göran Beijer. With his solid background in Life Science and experience from leadership roles in both large and small companies, he helps mature startups develop and achieve success. We met with Göran to hear his perspective on the UIC accelerator program, discuss his role as a business coach, and share his top advice for mature companies.
Over 40 Years of experience in the Life Science industry
With more than 40 years of experience in the Life Science industry and serving as CEO of eight different companies—most recently Dicot Pharma in Uppsala—Göran Beijer has deep insights into scaling both large and small businesses. His role as a business coach at UIC started with a desire to give back and support companies ready for growth.
– It’s fantastic to help startups develop and ensure they have the right conditions to succeed, says Göran.
Business coaches in the accelerator program support and guide
In the accelerator, mature startups receive a coach matched to their specific needs and challenges. Göran sees his role as a sounding board and strategic advisor, particularly for companies where the founders often lack experience in business development.
– Many startup founders are researchers or engineers and don’t always have knowledge of finance or business planning. That’s where I can contribute with my experience, helping them by asking the right questions and prioritizing what’s most important at the moment, explains Göran Beijer.
“It’s crucial to have a clear plan early on for how to finance the business and how to reach the market.“
Tailored support for each company’s unique needs
UIC’s business coaches help companies build a solid foundation and take the next big step. A key part of this is creating business plans and financing strategies. Göran emphasizes the importance of understanding the market and developing realistic plans.
– It’s crucial to have a clear plan early on for how to finance the business and how to reach the market. Many companies lack this structure when they start, says Göran.
He shares an example of one of his previous cases, MetaSafe, where he assisted with business planning and identifying the right customers. The company grew successfully and later achieved a successful exit through a merger with a larger firm.
– Being part of such a journey is very rewarding, he adds.
The benefits of UIC’s accelerator
UIC’s accelerator offers mature companies a unique opportunity and tools to help them develop and drive success. UIC’s extensive network enables connections with investors, market experts, and other entrepreneurs, as well as highly qualified business coaches who support and guide companies in developing business plans, market strategies, and other essential knowledge. However, Göran believes that companies in the accelerator program could utilize their coaches even more.
– It’s important to take full advantage of us. We’re here to help, and that investment can often be crucial to success, he says.
The business coach’s three key tips for startups
- Focus on the business plan – Develop a concrete plan outlining the market, customers, and growth strategy.
- Prioritize financing – Without the right financing, it’s difficult to move forward. Create a clear plan early on.
- Utilize your network – Leverage business coaches and contacts who can open doors and provide new perspectives.