Austria's startup ecosystem is quickly gaining traction, establishing itself as a potent center for innovation and entrepreneurship. The investment-friendly tax system, coupled with a robust support network further enhances the opportunities for startups in Austria. The startup accelerators and incubators in Austria offer a plethora of options for ambitious entrepreneurs looking to make their mark in a flourishing community. In this article, we have compiled a comprehensive list of all incubator and accelerator programs in Austria that can assist you in launching and growing your startup. The incubators and accelerators in this list have been subdivided into applicability for startups in their 'ideation', 'launch', or 'growth' stages.
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FULL LIST OF STARTUP INCUBATORS AND ACCELERATORS IN AUSTRIA
Ideation Stage Startup Incubators in Austria
Full list of ideation-stage startup incubators in Austria:
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Education
Future Wings Challenge is an initiative that aims to foster and cultivate Austrian entrepreneurial potential. Their incubator program provides ambitious entrepreneurs a place to explore their ideas that may increase the equality of education and opportunity for children and young people, hence improving their holistic development. With the support of the Austrian government and other partners, the program provides participants with the resources, mentorship, and financial opportunities that empower their mission and project.
Who is it for: Aspiring entrepreneurs with an idea and seeking cofounder / Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Energy, Renewable Energies, Mobility, Agriculture
The Greenstart program is an initiative that promotes environmental awareness and sustainability by assisting environmentally conscious firms and entrepreneurs and offering them mentorship, resources, and financial opportunities. Greenstart's extensive curriculum and networking events seek to empower and accelerate the growth of entrepreneurs devoted to making a positive environmental impact. The program aims to create a community of like-minded individuals who are enthusiastic about creating a greener and more sustainable future by encouraging cooperation and information exchange.
Who is it for: Aspiring entrepreneurs with an idea and seeking cofounder / Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Mobile
Up to Eleven is a company builder firm situated in Graz, Austria, that specializes on mobile companies. Founded in 2012, they combine the functions of an accelerator and an incubator to provide complete support to early-stage entrepreneurs. With a team of marketing, product development, and networking specialists, they assist in expanding successful company concepts into new areas. They provide funding, investor connections, infrastructural support, continuous administrative aid, and mentoring from successful entrepreneurs.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Sector Agnostic
The ZAT Startup (Center for Applied Technology) in Austria is a hub for innovation and collaboration. ZAT assists entrepreneurs in creating and executing cutting-edge solutions with an emphasis on applied technology. They offer a platform for startups to engage with industry experts and investors, assisting them in navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship. ZAT fosters a supportive ecosystem that allows entrepreneurs to thrive and expand, and their network and resources enable entrepreneurs to bring their ideas to life and drive technical improvements in a variety of industries.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Sector Agnostic
Startup.Tirol is an organization committed to assisting and fostering Tyrol's entrepreneurs and startups. Startup.Tirol offers a variety of initiatives and services to aid tech-based startups in order to create an appealing startup site in the region. These programs offer assistance from the conception of an idea through the development of a viable business plan. By collaborating with universities in Tyrol, Startup.Tirol ensures that startups receive the necessary guidance and assistance to thrive in the competitive business world.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Social and Environmental Impact
The Stories for Good incubator in Austria is a well-known organization committed to assisting Austrian startups with a positive social impact. With a focus on sustainability and social responsibility, the incubator offers a variety of services and tools to assist entrepreneurs in developing and growing their enterprises. These services include management training, access to office space, as well as venture capital financing. With a strong network of mentors and experts, Stories for Good offers valuable guidance and support to its selected startups.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Technology
build! Start-up Center Carinthia, also known as Gründerzentrum Kärnten, is an innovative hub in Austria that provides comprehensive support for entrepreneurs looking to start their own businesses. Build! provides a wide range of services to assist entrepreneurs transform their company ideas into reality, with an emphasis on technology-oriented and knowledge-based initiatives, as well as locally relevant sectors of potential. Consulting, coaching, mentorship, and networking opportunities are among the services they provide. The center also offers training, financial assistance, and digital services to help entrepreneurs develop and succeed.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Technology
INiTS is Vienna's leading high-tech incubator, catering to innovative research and technology-based businesses with significant growth potential. It is owned and supported by the Vienna Business Agency, Technical University Vienna, and University of Vienna. INiTS fosters academic institutions by providing funding, mentorship, and assistance to entrepreneurs. Focusing on early-stage companies, the program assists startups aiming to accelerate their growth by transforming ideas into prototypes.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Technology
Tech2b is an incubator that offers comprehensive startup training and crucial startup counseling and input from professionals to assist entrepreneurs in refining their ideas and moving them forward. They also provide startups with access to a large network of alumni, investors, and partners, which may tremendously assist them in terms of finance and collaboration prospects. Furthermore, Tech2b provides specialized courses and assistance in market analysis and financial planning, providing entrepreneurs with critical skills for success. Start-ups can also make use of free infrastructure, such as office space and workshop access, to help them develop.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Technology, Space
Science Park Graz is a renowned high-tech incubator located in Graz, Styria, Austria. Through its incubation programs, Science Park Graz provides a variety of support to help entrepreneurs effectively accelerate their start-ups. Science Park Graz also oversees the European Space Agency's Business Incubation Centre in Austria, which provides finance and a strong network to entrepreneurs that utilize space-related technology in their commercial operations. With its dedication to nurturing early-stage, high-tech start-ups, Science Park Graz continues to empower and inspire the next generation of innovators in Austria and beyond.
Launch Stage Startup Incubators and Accelerators in Austria
Full list of launch-stage startup incubators and accelerators in Austria:
Who is it for: Aspiring entrepreneurs with an idea and seeking cofounder / Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Raw Materials
The EIT RawMaterials program is a collaborative effort aimed at fostering disruptive and game-changing technologies in the raw materials sector. It brings together corporations, universities, research institutes, and investors to foster an atmosphere conducive to innovation. EIT RawMaterials strives to increase resource access and sustainability by concentrating on recycling and replacement. As the world's biggest raw materials innovation community, the initiative provides people and businesses with assistance, networks, and opportunities to improve the lifecycles of raw materials in Europe.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team / Mature startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: AutoTech, E-Mobility, Autonomous Driving, Artificial Intelligence
Creators Expedition is a program launched by AVL, a prominent powertrain systems company in Austria, to promote early and development stage companies in the automotive and mobility industries. This program focuses on three critical areas of technology: electric mobility, autonomous driving, and data-driven innovation and artificial intelligence. Creators Expedition provides financial support as well as access to a worldwide network of customers and specialists to promote collaboration and the creation of novel ideas in the automobile sector.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Multiple Sectors
Impact Hub Vienna is a thriving and diverse network of individuals and organizations committed to bringing about positive social change. Impact Hub Vienna aspires to create a balance between social responsibility and profitability by connecting, supporting, and motivating enterprises that innovate with heart. Co-working memberships, event space rentals, and business accelerator programs are among the services they provide. They promote companies through their worldwide network of over 100 hub sites in 55+ countries; enabling collaboration among entrepreneurs, innovators, major companies, investors, and the public sector.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Rolling Sectors
Female Founders is an influential organization established in Vienna, Austria that promotes equal opportunities for female entrepreneurs, leaders, founders, and companies in the European IT and innovation ecosystem. They offer a number of programs and initiatives, including startup programs, leadership programs, and funding opportunities. Their flagship startup program GROW F, assists teams with at least one female founding member in becoming investment-ready. Their program includes deep dive sessions with industry experts, a hybrid format with an exclusive in-person event in a European startup center, and access to Europe's most successful investors.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Sector Agnostic
WeXelerate Innovation Hub in Vienna, Austria is the physical headquarters of Austria's Innovation Ecosystem. This bustling venue, spanning over 9,000 square meters, acts as Europe's largest multi-corporate accelerator. The hub provides a rare opportunity for entrepreneurs to gain assistance with sales enablement and market expansion without requiring equity sharing. Accepted entrepreneurs can gain access to a network of experienced mentors and consulting partners, as well as four months of free office space in the headquarters. The center's environment encourages alliances and collaborations with world-class corporations, which may become the startups' first large clients.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Social, Sustainability
The 10X Impact program is a revolutionary project that enables change-makers and businesses to reach their full potential. Through their comprehensive framework, the curriculum is intended to stimulate entrepreneurs' personal and professional growth. It emphasizes team leadership, organizational growth, and developing a culture of accountability and transparency. The curriculum also emphasizes mental health and wellness, acknowledging their critical role in long-term business-building progress. 10X Impact assists entrepreneurs in turning their ideas into reality, mobilizing a dedicated workforce, and making a positive impact by providing direction and assistance.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Technology
Accent incubator is a vibrant and innovative incubator located in Lower Austria. Accent takes pride in being the first point of contact for ambitious entrepreneurs and startups in the region as the incubator of Lower Austria. The incubator is fueled by ardent technology aficionados, with a team of highly driven and multidisciplinary workforce with different academic backgrounds. Their comprehensive support system and resources demonstrate their dedication to promoting innovation and cultivating talent.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Technology
The CyberLab Accelerator in Austria is a prestigious program that provides support for IT entrepreneurs in the region. The accelerator provides intense training for entrepreneurs in fields such as IT, AI, IT security, and smart production. Participants can benefit from valuable mentorship, networking opportunities, and guidance on various aspects of business development, including pitch training, finance, legalities, and business modeling. Furthermore, the accelerator offers special discounts and privileges through partner programs, boosting the business experience even further. Thanks to Start-up BW funding, the program is completely free of charge, making it accessible to a wide range of aspiring entrepreneurs.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Travel, Smart Cities
Plug and Play Vienna is an innovation cluster with programs that are specifically designed to focus on disruptive technologies, with key areas of emphasis including mobility, Internet of Things (IoT), real estate and construction, energy & sustainability, and improving operational efficiencies in travel. This dynamic center intends to bring all stakeholders together in order to realize the ambitious goal of Net Zero by 2030, while also offering new and exciting commercial possibilities.
Growth Stage Startup Accelerators in Austria
Full list of growth-stage startup accelerators in Austria:
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Agriculture
The Agro Innovation Lab is a ground-breaking program that aims to transform the agriculture industry via cooperation and innovation. The Agro Innovation Lab strives to address critical difficulties in the agricultural industry by supporting innovation in areas such as precision agriculture, sustainable farming, and agri-tech solutions. It acts as a launchpad for agricultural companies, offering a supportive environment for startups to develop and prosper. The lab provides a range of assistance, including mentorship, access to finance, and a network of industry connections, with state-of-the-art facilities and specialist staff. The lab is set to change the future of agriculture by promoting sustainable practices and technology innovations, assuring food security and environmental sustainability for future generations.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Digital Services & Technology, Environment & Sustainability, Educational Technology, Cybersecurity & Data Analysis
A1 Start-Up Campus is a Vienna-based accelerator that works with startups in the digital services, education technology, and cybersecurity sectors. The organization provides a fostering atmosphere for startups, providing them with a new home and guiding them through their development. Throughout their three-year program, selected startups can gain access to unrivaled benefits. A1 provides more than office space, but also vital assistance and advice to entrepreneurs with their complete team from diverse backgrounds. Startups have access to a strong network and a multitude of success stories to take inspiration from by being a member of the A1 ecosystem.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team / Mature startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: FinTech
Elevator Lab is an innovative platform that is dedicated to stimulating entrepreneurship, assisting businesses, and pushing digital change in the country. It provides a variety of unique features and services that distinguish it from other incubators and accelerators. Elevator Lab's research-driven strategy keeps it at the forefront of digitization and its influence on numerous industries. Elevator Lab connects businesses to a broad network of mentors, industry experts, and possible investors through its extensive programs. Furthermore, it provides personalized support and coaching to assist startups in navigating the hurdles of expanding their operations.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team / Mature startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Healthcare, MedTech, Digital Health
The I2A (International TO Austria) accelerator program, initiated by Bloomblisser and GVI (Gold Venture Incubator), provides a unique opportunity for startups in non-EU countries to access the European market through Austria. The program serves as a bridge for startups aiming to enter the European market, with Austria as the first market.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: LegalTech
The Legal Tech Hub Vienna (LTHV) is a renowned accelerator program for legal technology firms all around the world. LTHV, which is supported by Austrian legal firms, provides a program that is adapted to the needs of each unique enterprise. The program focuses on AI-powered legal tech solutions such as process optimization, document management systems, and contract analysis. Participants in the program will have the opportunity to engage with prominent law firms in Austria and the CEE area, to gain expertise through events and knowledge transfer, and to benefit from a network of legal professionals, mentors, and coaches.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Technology, UN SGDs
Tech2impact is a worldwide network based in Austria that connects impact founders, accelerators, incubators, mentors, and investors that are passionate about impact technology. Tech2impact assists impact founders by providing them with the resources and chances they require to grow. They provide specialized coaching in business impact innovation, assisting entrepreneurs in developing creative methods to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while making profit. Through fundraising support, mentorship programs, and a community of impact tech champions, Tech2impact empowers founders to create positive change in Austria and beyond.
Closing Thoughts on Startup Incubators and Accelerators in Austria
Austria boasts some of Europe's best startup accelerators and incubators, providing entrepreneurs and founders with the essential resources of capital and mentorship. These programs play a crucial role in supporting startups at different stages of their development, fostering innovation, collaboration, and entrepreneurial success. The presence of these programs has enhanced the startup landscape in the country, contributing significantly to the vibrant startup ecosystem in Austria.
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