Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich faces challenges in fully developing its innovation-driven entrepreneurial ecosystem. Key issues include a commercialization gap between academic research and scalable businesses, the high costs of scaling hardware-based startups, and talent retention difficulties due to high living costs. A shortage of skilled workers and infrastructure needs at the Innovation Park in Dübendorf further limit growth.

Through MIT REAP, Zurich aims to accelerate its ecosystem by aligning stakeholders around clear, evidence-based strategies. We will focus on new funding vehicles, commercialization programs, and sector-specific accelerators to strengthen startups and scale-ups. Our vision is to build a vibrant, globally competitive hub where research excellence consistently translates into impactful entrepreneurship and economic growth.