Switzerland and Liechtenstein strengthen cooperation in the field of innovation
New cooperation agreement to promote high-risk projects, support start-ups and foster economic and social growth in both countries.
On 18 February 2025, a new agreement was signed in Bern between Switzerland and Liechtenstein to strengthen collaboration in the field of scientific innovation. The agreement was signed by Martina Hirayama, state secretary for education, research and innovation, and Katja Gey, director of the Office of Public Economy of the Principality of Liechtenstein, and replaces the previous one that will no longer be in force as of the end of February 2025.
The renewal of the agreement aims to intensify cooperation in science, promoting new innovative ideas that can bring concrete benefits to both the economy and society of both countries. Among the main objectives are the promotion of high-risk projects, support for start-ups through coaching programmes and the encouragement of collaboration between companies and research institutions, both in Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
100 years ago Liechtenstein embraced the Swiss franc
During the period 2021-2024, the University of Liechtenstein actively participated in seven project proposals, with a strong concentration in the fields of Information and Communications Technology and Social Sciences and Business Management. Liechtenstein companies submitted more than 40 applications as implementing partners, highlighting the country’s significant involvement in the innovation landscape.
In Switzerland, the body responsible for promoting innovation is Innosuisse, while in Liechtenstein it is the Office of Public Economy. The new agreement signed today not only renews the 2021 agreement, but also confirms the consolidation of cooperation between the two countries in an area that is crucial for their future development.
Liechtenstein, a small but strategic neighbouring state, is confirmed as a key partner of Switzerland in the fields of education, research and innovation, with a long series of bilateral agreements that testify to the importance of cooperation between the two countries.
Source: admin.ch
