Abstract
This study examines barriers to launching independent schoolsin Sweden. It analyzes ecoological and institutional factorsaffecting new school ventures under Sweden’s school choicesystem. Using government data, interviews, and archivalsources, the findings highlight school density as a key factor incompetition and legitimation. As school numbers grow, compe-tition restricts new entries, while legitimation foster expansion.Additionally, evolving regulations pose challenges, especiallyfor nonprofit schools. The study suggests balanced regulationsare needed to support educational innovation while maintain-ing quality in Sweden’s independent school sector.