In 2004, the Swedish Government implemented a special promotion initiative in Hungary. 1 The aim of the initiative was to develop contacts between Sweden and Hungary prior to Hungary’s accession to the EU. Within the frame of the Svédületes project a conference on the thematic field Safety in Infrastructure was arranged by Malardalen University, the Budapest and Stockholm Fire Departments and the two metro operators BKV and SL. This conference was the beginning of an extensive co-operation in research and exchange of know-how between the project members. Seminars, excercises and visits have been held in both countries during the past year. This paper describes how the project was carried through from idea to established relations. Ways for implementation of academic results to useful practical knowledge is discussed. Forms of financing similar projects are introduced and the future planned co-operation is presented. The project are seen as a first step for future rewarding co-operation between universities, public authorities and infrastructure owners in wider circles.