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Silicon Valley vibes: Global leaders speak out

We asked leading voices in robotics, quantum research, digital finance and telecom what makes the Greater Zurich Area such a powerful base for innovation and impact. What we heard was remarkably consistent: the blend of world-class talent, regulatory clarity, international access, and quality of life is hard to beat – not just in Europe, but globally.

These interviews were recorded during the Alpine Tech Forum 2025, a gathering of global experts held at Headquarters Zurich and supported by Alexander Brunner and the House of Blockchain

Andie Zhang | Global Portfolio & Technology Manager ABB Robotics

Greater Zurich brings together world-class talent from engineering to design – and Andie Zhang sees that interdisciplinary spirit as key to building better robots. Living and working here also means quality of life, for both work and family.

Curious what else makes robotics work here?

Curious what else makes robotics work here?

Andie Zhang isn’t the only one. In Greater Zurich, more than 100 robotics companies and research institutions are shaping the future of automation, intelligence, and design — across industries and around the world.

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Autonomous Systems in the Greater Zurich Area Map
Meet Alessandro Curioni | VP Europe & Africa and Director, IBM Research Europe

Greater Zurich’s unique ecosystem has kept IBM Research rooted here since 1956. For Alessandro Curioni, it's the place where open innovation thrives – fueled by excellence in research, collaboration, and long-term thinking.

Still not sure why Greater Zurich? Let’s make it easy.

Still not sure why Greater Zurich? Let’s make it easy.

If Dr. Curioni didn’t convince you, our full list of reasons might. From talent and taxes to trust and tech — it’s all one click away.

Meet Elise Soucie Watts | Executive Director, Global Digital Finance (GDF)

From DLT to AI regulation, Elise Soucie Watts sees Zurich as a trusted place where regulators and innovators come together. She praises Switzerland’s early leadership and sees real potential for shaping global digital policy.

Meet Werner Koss | Country Manager, Nokia

Greater Zurich combines cutting-edge telecom deployment with a vibrant tech community and top talent. For Werner Koss, who once guided climbers through the Alps, it’s also simply the place he feels most at home.

Meet Courtney Bowman | Global Director Privacy & Civil Liberties Engineering, Palantir Technologies

Greater Zurich reminds Courtney Bowman of early Silicon Valley full of young talent, creativity, and momentum. But what sets it apart is the city’s unique ability to support interdisciplinary work across AI, ethics, and regulation. For Palantir, Zurich offers more than a European hub it’s where innovation and policy evolve together.

Meet with an expansion expert

Meet with an expansion expert

Our services are free of charge and include: 

  • Introduction to key contacts in industry, academia, and government
  • Advice on regulatory framework, taxes, labor, market, and setting up a company
  • Custom-made fact-finding visits, including office and co-working space