Denmark invests billions each year in innovation and commercialization of new knowledge through start-ups, spin-outs and established innovation communities. These investments are essential for driving growth, creating jobs and developing technological solutions to global challenges like climate change, energy transition and communication.
However, Denmark's leading position in a range of critical technologies also makes its innovation communities attractive targets for foreign intelligence and influence activities.
Secure innovation is about ensuring that valuable knowledge and technology are not exploited in ways that could harm Denmark, your business or national security.
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The Danish Security and Intelligence Service (PET) assesses that foreign states are increasingly seeking access to Danish innovation, technology and knowledge. This is due, in part, to:
- Denmark’s global leading position in various technologies
- A high level of innovation and strong collaboration between research and industry
- An open innovation community with international capital and partners
Spin-outs and start-ups are especially vulnerable, because their need for rapid growth, capital and market access can sometimes lead to security considerations being overlooked in the early stages.
Read more about the threat to Danish innovation
The threat is not limited to large, established companies. The following actors are often also at high risk:
- early-stage start-ups and spin-outs
- innovation communities and incubators
- companies with access to critical technology, data or know-how
- suppliers to critical entities or public authorities
The vulnerability of these actors is exacerbated by the fact that new technologies often fall into legal grey areas, and that ownership and collaboration structures can be complex.
In their pursuit of critical knowledge and technology, foreign states use a wide range of methods, including:
- investments, acquisitions and loans
- collaboration and development agreements
- donations and attractive offers on equipment or services
- use of front persons, front companies and complex ownership structures
It can be difficult to determine who is actually behind an offer. Capital may be channelled through funds and intermediaries, and seemingly legitimate business opportunities can, in practice, be used to collect information about technologies, business models or strategic plans.
An attractive pitch or collaboration can also provide unwanted access to laboratories, data, employees or networks.
Read more about the espionage provisions of the Danish Criminal Code: Are you breaking the law?
| Unwanted and illegal knowledge transfer |
| PET distinguishes between illegal and unwanted knowledge transfer. Illegal knowledge transfer refers to transfer of knowledge in breach of current legislation, for example via espionage by foreign intelligence services. Unwanted knowledge transfer, on the other hand, refers to cases where Danish research institutions or companies legally transfer knowledge or skills to entities with ties to non-like-minded states, such as China, Russia and Iran, which can then apply the knowledge directly in ways that are contrary to Danish interests or the interests of our allies. For example, they may use it to build up their military capabilities, to identify vulnerabilities in critical Danish infrastructure or for other purposes that can benefit these states in the event of a crisis or conflict. |
PET assesses that there is a very high threat of unwanted and illegal transfer of Danish research, technology and knowledge within several strategically important technology areas, including:
- quantum technology
- biotechnology
- energy technology
- defence and dual-use technologies
Denmark has a strong tradition of innovative research in these areas, which increases the interest from foreign states. The threat extends to both the technology itself and communities where new knowledge is developed and shared.
The Danish defence industry and associated innovation communities are also attractive targets. Actors with ties to foreign military and intelligence services continuously attempt to procure products, components and knowledge related to Danish defence and security technology.
Read more about the threat to Danish innovation and research in bio technology
Read more about the threat to Danish innovation and research in energy technology
Read more about the threat to Danish innovation and research in quantum technology
Unwanted transfer of technology and knowledge to non-like-minded states can have serious security, economic and business consequences.
Therefore, it is important for all companies – regardless of size – to integrate security into their core business practices.
This includes:
- prioritizing security at the management level
- assessing risks associated with investments, collaborations and ownership
- protecting access to locations, data and key staff
- actively considering the potential dual-use applications of your technology
PET provides guidance and tools to help you build an appropriate security level.
Several Danish authorities and organizations contribute to protecting Danish innovation and can support you in your security work. Here you can find guidance, tools and information on relevant rules and risks.
The Danish Business Authority is the competent authority in Denmark for export controls on dual-use items and for investment screening. The Authority administers the rules aimed at preventing sensitive technology and knowledge from being transferred to actors that may pose a threat to national security or public order.
The Danish Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) is at part of the Denmark’s national emergency response service and has a range of operational capabilities and task related to emergency communication. Here you will find guidelines and tools for disaster and crisis preparedness for both public and private organizations.
The Danish Resilience Agency is responsible for the overall national guidance on threats facing societal. SAMSIK provides guidance to public authorities, companies, and citizens on security – cyber security, supply security and information security – and provides materials, courses and counsel.
On the Danish Industry website, you can find practical advice and guidance for companies. The site includes recommendations on risk assessment as well as the protection of data, technology, and key employees, enabling companies to strengthen their security and resilience.
On the Danish Chamber of Commerce website, companies can find guidance, analyses, and up-to-date news on legislation, exports, investments, and international cooperation. The site also includes guides and events that can aid companies and organizations navigate risks in a global business environment.