This content is only available to NordSIP members
KK-stiftelsen, or the Knowledge Foundation, is a Swedish organisation established in 1994 with an initial capital of SEK 3.6 billion. Through effective capital management, the foundation’s assets have grown to approximately SEK 10 billion, while SEK 12 billion has been disbursed in project funding.
The foundation emphasises ethical and environmental considerations in its capital management, conducting regular reviews to ensure a long-term sustainable approach.
In 2021, KK-stiftelsen co-founded Granit Bostad, a housing company focused on sustainable rental properties, alongside partners such as Afa Sjukförsäkringsaktiebolag and PRI Pensionsgaranti. This investment aims to provide cost-effective access to long-term, relatively secure cash flows, enhancing the foundation’s ability to finance research and competence development. Granit Bostad’s initial property portfolio, originating from Grön Bostad, is located in Stockholm, Malmö, and Uppsala, with plans for expansion.
Additionally, KK-stiftelsen funds research projects that promote sustainability. For example, in 2024, the foundation supported a project at Linnaeus University focused on sustainable wood construction. This initiative aims to reduce the climate impact of the construction sector by replacing traditional building materials with wood, a renewable resource.
In its 2024 strategy, KK-stiftelsen outlines six strategic shifts to better meet future demands, including a focus on sustainability. The foundation strives to be a long-term, courageous funder that builds a stronger Sweden, reinforcing core values such as cooperation for enhanced competitiveness and profiling of higher education institutions.
Asset Management Responsibiities
KK-stiftelsen’s commitment to sustainable investments is guided by its Investment Committee, which includes both board members and external experts. The committee’s primary role is to make decisions on tactical issues and investment choices, advising the board on matters related to capital management. It comprises six members: three from the foundation’s board and three external members with specific expertise in capital management. The committee adheres to investment guidelines established by the board, integrating ethical and environmental considerations into capital management to ensure a long-term sustainable approach.
As of December 2024, the Investment Committee is chaired by Arne Lidén, who also serves as a board member. Under his leadership, the committee emphasises diversification across asset classes and external managers, with a focus on sustainable management practices. Lidén has highlighted the importance of staying at the forefront of sustainable management, stating that increased awareness and knowledge about sustainable investment opportunities are crucial for the foundation’s capital management.
The foundation’s board, led by Chairperson Elisabeth Nilsson, a former governor and special investigator, oversees the strategic direction of these investments. Nilsson’s extensive experience in various leadership roles contributes to the foundation’s commitment to integrating sustainability into its investment strategies.
Other notable members include Thomas Strand, Vice Chairperson, who has a background in regional development and previously served as Vice Chair of the Riksbankens Jubileumsfond, bringing valuable insights into sustainable development and funding.
The three experts on the Investment Committee are Cecilia Thomasson Blomquist, Sten Dunér, and Mikael Kamras.
