When people think of global innovation hubs, Silicon Valley or Asian tech centres often spring to mind. Yet in the heart of Europe, the VIENNA REGION – spanning Vienna, Lower Austria and Burgenland – has emerged as a true hotspot for innovation. Here, world-class research meets entrepreneurial spirit, supported by Nobel Prize-winning science, cutting-edge infrastructure, and a thriving startup culture.
A foundation built onnobel prizes and world-class science
The reputation of the VIENNA REGION is rooted in a strong tradition of excellence. Historic figures such as Erwin Schrödinger and Konrad Lorenz shaped international science. More recently, Anton Zeilinger won the 2022 Nobel Prize in Physics, while in 2023 Ferenc Krausz, a member of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, was awarded the NobelPrize in Physics for his work in atto second physics.
These milestones show that the VIENNA REGION is not just following trends – it is setting them, with discoveries that shape the technologies of tomorrow.
Quantum computing and quantum technologies – leading the way
Austria is now considered to be “in the fast lane” in quantum research. With the Quantum Austria programme and initiatives like Quantum to Market, the country supports both fundamental science and commercialisation.
The Vienna Center for Quantum Science and Technology (VCQ) unites the University of Vienna, TU Wien, theAustrian Academy of Sciences, and ISTA. Alongside this academic strength, innovative companies are growing: QMware, which develops hybrid quantum cloud services in partnership withNvidia and Oracle, or Quantum Industries, specialising in quantum cryptography.
For businesses in IT, secure communications, photonics or advanced computing, this ecosystem offers direct access to cutting-edge research and real-world applications.
A strong research landscape – from life sciences to AI
With ≈ 2,355research institutions, the VIENNA REGION provides one of Europe’s densest innovation networks. The Vienna BioCenter is a flagship: over 140 research groups and 50 biotech companies employ staff from 80 countries. The CeMM – Research Center for Molecular Medicine leads the way in personalised medicine and genomics.
Artificial intelligence is also thriving. The startup BReact, founded in Vienna in 2022, is creating customised AI solutions for efficiency in business processes, while VRVis is one of Europe’s leading institutes for visual computing, simulation and AI-driven image analysis.
The result:discoveries move from labs into businesses faster, creating value across industries.
“Innovation isin our DNA. From Nobel Prize-winning physics to AI-driven startups, the region shows how history and future can work hand in hand.”
— Anton Zeilinger, Nobel Prize inPhysics 2022
A startup ecosystem withglobal ambitions
According to Seedtable, Vienna is home to more than 130 active startups, with acombined funding volume of over USD 5.3 billion. The range covers fintech, health-tech, renewable energy, industrial automation, and deep tech.
Export-driven companies such as Senseven GmbH (sensors + AI), which won the AustrianExport Award 2025, demonstrate how the region produces “born global” firms from the start. The Vienna Startup Package attracts founders from abroad and helps them scale into the German-speaking and European markets.
Sustainability as a driver of innovation
Innovation in the VIENNA REGION is closely tied to sustainability. With projects such as the GreenEnergy Lab – a ≈ €150 million testbed for renewable energy systems – and OMV’s green hydrogen plant in Schwechat, producing up to 1,500 metrictons annually, the region is building real infrastructure for the future.
Wind and solar expansions in Lower Austria and Burgenland are also reshaping the energy landscape, supported by EIB financing for wind farms. This means businesses locating here can rely on energy security, stable costs, and ESG-friendly conditions – a major factor for investors and international corporations alike.
Why does the VIENNA REGION mean an opportunityfor you
Taken together this atmosphere offers:
· Access to NobelPrize-winning science and leading research institutions
· State-of-the-artquantum computing and AI infrastructure
· A startup scene that is globally competitive and well-funded
· Secure and sustainable energy from hydrogen, wind and solar
· A lifestyle that attracts international talent and keeps them
The VIENNA REGION is not just another business location – it is anecosystem where history, science and entrepreneurship combine to shape the future.
Key figures that define innovation in the VIENNA REGION
· Approx. 2,355research institutions drive science and technology across Vienna, Lower Austria and Burgenland.
· More than 130active startups in Vienna alone, spanning biotech, fintech, health-tech andAI.
· The Vienna BioCenter: 140+ research groups and ≈50 biotech companies with staff from 80 countries.
· Austria investsaround 3.2% of GDP in R&D – among the top in Europe (OECD).
· The green hydrogen plant in Schwechat produces up to 1,500 tons annually.
“If you want to build globally, you need a location that combines research excellence, international connectivity, and quality of life. The VIENNA REGION offers exactly that.”
— Raphaela Graf, Managing Director | VIENNA REGION
