The world's leading hub for innovation

Innovation in Greater Zurich flourishes due to a concentration of top universities and research institutes, such as ETH Zurich, the institute for materials science and Technology Empa, the University of Zurich, and several universities of applied sciences. ETH Zurich, ranked the best university outside the USA and UK, has generated over 600 spin-offs in the past twenty years, demonstrating strong science-private sector collaboration. A World Economic Forum study even ranks Switzerland first in R&D collaborations. With 5.3 patents per 10,000 people, the Greater Zurich Area exhibits a high patent intensity on an international scale.

The dynamic innovation environment in the Greater Zurich Area has helped leading global companies such as Google, Disney Research, and Microsoft to jointly operate research laboratories with ETH Zurich.

The close collaboration between research institutes and the private sector as well as numerous accelerators and incubators create a dynamic environment for innovation in technologies such as life sciences, information technology, fintech and blockchain, robotics and intelligent systems, and advanced production processes.  

Switzerland is one of the most competitive economies in the world and the world leader in innovation. Companies benefit from economic and political stability, European market access, a highly qualified workforce, pragmatic regulations, a competitive tax system, and an excellent infrastructure.

Highly skilled employees for all corporate functions, a flexible job market, and business-friendly regulations draw easily innovative global companies, SMEs, and start-ups into Greater Zurich. 

Switzerland ranks regularly as the top country worldwide for talent, talent competitiveness, and talent retention, according to the Global Talent Competitiveness Index and the World Talent Ranking. Furthermore, the high quality of life in Greater Zurich makes the area particularly attractive for top managers and their families.