Startup ecosystem

Innovation and business-friendly environment

Greater Zurich has developed into a very attractive location for successful startups and offers the three most important ingredients for a thriving startup ecosystem: Talent, capital, and customers. The region is home to world-leading universities, renowned companies, mentors, incubators and accelerators, innovation support programs, and associations. An innovation and business-friendly environment and a sense of entrepreneurial spirit round off the package.

The innovative strength of Switzerland and Greater Zurich offers the ideal breeding ground for unicorns. At least five privately held startups reached the prestigious "unicorn" status with a valuation of over one billion US dollars, including four from Greater Zurich: GetYourGuide (travel platform), Numbrs (banking app), Climeworks (Climate Tech), and Acronis (cybersecurity).

The Swiss startup scene remains diverse and resilient, continuing to exhibit strength even in challenging times. Although there was a drop in venture capital investment in 2023, with CHF 2.6 billion invested in startups, the ecosystem's vitality is still evident. The number of financing rounds grew, reaching a new all-time high of 397 in 2023, highlighting the dynamic and diverse nature of the regional entrepreneurial landscape.

Download TOP 100 Swiss Startup Magazine 

Presenting the Who's Who of the Swiss startup ecosystem, the magazine portrays the most promising Swiss startups, which were selected by the TOP 100 Jury. Additionally, the publication analyzes the rankings and features interviews with key personalities of the ecosystem, venture capital investors, and business angels.