Much has changed for the better in Switzerland, but other start-up locations are also making progress. So it is important that the political environment for start-ups is further developed.
Dear reader
Even for an insider like me, it is astonishing to see the progress the Swiss start-up scene has made. An example is the level of the finalists of the venture competition. Among the 25 start-ups with the best business plans and the top business ideas are companies such as Advertima, which employs more than 30 people, and Twiice, which has already caused a stir worldwide with its technology.
But there is also a lot going on outside the large centres. The quality of the finalists of the eastern Swiss award Startfeld Diamant was very impressive. In the end, simedis won with an operation simulator based on real tomography data. Park Innovaare, one of the five Switzerland Innovation parks, has also started well in Villigen.
In addition, new interesting support programmes are constantly being added, such as the incubator at Biopôle, the life sciences centre in Lausanne.
However, with all these advances one should not forget that there is much to do abroad as well. Further efforts are needed to exploit the enormous potential of Switzerland in terms of start-ups. As with a start-up, tenacity is also required when setting up a start-up scene. Therefore, it is not a good sign when in one week both parliamentary chambers sink two incentives that called for a more start-up-friendly framework. Jacqueline Badran’s initiative on taxation was denied, as was Ruedi Noser’s initiative for a start-up visa.
Our article on Project Rosie shows that such a visa would make sense. The two founders came to Switzerland from London for the Kickstart Accelerator – and decided to remain here. It seems that Switzerland is attractive to young entrepreneurs from all over the world. If they are not from the EU, however, difficulties can quickly arise with their residence permit.
Finally, our tips on important events and dates. Since 2011, the TOP 100 Swiss Startup Award has offered an instant picture of the most innovative and promising young companies in Switzerland. The seventh edition has an important new feature: in addition to the votes of the 100 experts, the public will also have a vote – you can vote for your favourite start-up now.
Swiss Medtech Day takes place in Bern next Tuesday, and the following week (19 June) will see venture’s award ceremony at ETH Zurich. On 21 June, the Swiss-South African venture leaders pitchfest will take place in Schlieren, where 10 South African teams will compete against 10 Swiss start-ups.
Have a creative weekend.
Stefan Kyora
Editor in Chief, Startupticker
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