Geneva Unveils Master Plan To Become An Innovation Hub
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The State of Geneva has unveiled an ambitious master plan aimed at transforming the canton into a global innovation hub. In addition to the CHF 10 million already invested annually in the sector, an extra CHF 11 million will be injected over the next three years, until 2027. Unveiled at Campus Biotech by State Councilor for the Economy, Delphine Bachmann, the plan is part of a strong political commitment to innovation as a key driver of economic and societal transformation.
Strengthening the Existing Ecosystem
“The 2025-2027 master plan marks a major milestone in fostering innovation, which has the power to transform business models, society, and employment opportunities,” said Delphine Bachmann. She emphasized that Geneva already benefits from a robust support system, including Fongit (Geneva Foundation for Technological Innovation), FAE (Business Support Foundation), and OPI (Office for the Promotion of Industries and Technologies).
These organizations receive CHF 10 million annually from the government. However, the plan aims to take things to the next level by offering a structured roadmap and a strong commitment from the authorities.
Developed in May 2024, the strategy is the result of an extensive collaboration with research and innovation experts. Out of 200 proposals, the Cantonal Office for the Economy and Innovation has selected 14 priority actions.
The plan is structured around four strategic pillars:
- Additional and more accessible funding
- Enhanced and more affordable infrastructure
- Development of a dynamic innovation ecosystem
- Stronger emphasis on education and training
A Game-Changer for the Swiss Health Valley
At the core of the initiative is funding, a crucial element for startups and SMEs. Thanks to the master plan, Fongit’s Innovation Fund (FIF) will double to CHF 2 million, significantly expanding its support for early-stage projects.
Established in 2021, this cantonal investment fund is designed to help startups and SMEs during their critical early phases, offering non-repayable grants and loans.
“This initiative creates a powerful multiplier effect,” explains Denis Cavin, economic affairs officer at the Cantonal Office for Economy and Innovation. “For every franc invested by the government, private investments are multiplied by 23 to 30.”
This expansion is a huge win for the Swiss Health Valley and the life sciences ecosystem, as it strengthens Geneva’s ability to attract and support groundbreaking medical and biotechnological innovations.
Infrastructure and Business Support
The Canton will also establish a one-stop business desk, simplifying access to information and facilitating interactions with public administration.
A significant investment in infrastructure will further ease costs for innovative companies. Four floors, totalling 3,500 m², in a new building at Campus Biotech will be dedicated to innovation, providing startups with access to cutting-edge technological platforms, including two high-performance MRI scanners.
Additionally, a targeted promotion strategy will be implemented to identify and attract missing links in Geneva’s innovation ecosystem, ensuring a fully integrated and self-sustaining network.
A Hub for Future Innovators
The master plan also envisions the creation of an Innovation Hub, a public-private partnership located in the heart of the city. Furthermore, Geneva will collaborate with the Department of Public Education to nurture an entrepreneurial mindset among young students. Specialists from the innovation sector will intervene in schools to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.
With this bold and forward-thinking approach, Geneva is cementing its status as a key player in global innovation. This initiative is not only a game-changer for local startups and businesses but also a massive boost for the Swiss Health Valley and the life sciences sector, reinforcing Switzerland’s position at the forefront of medical, biotech, and technological advancements.
➡️ Source: State Of Geneva. 📸 (L to R) Kustrim Reka, economic affairs officer, Delphine Bachmann, State Councilor for the Economy, Denis Cavin, economic affairs officer at the Cantonal Office for Economy and Innovation and member of the BioAlps’ Committee. ©BioAlps