Part of Switzerland Innovation
Switzerland Innovation Park Ost in St. Gallen is part of the Switzerland Innovation network and one of six main locations in Switzerland – alongside Basel, Biel, Lausanne, Villigen and Zurich. The network is based on a joint initiative of public institutions, science and the private sector, and a legal mandate from the Federal Council.
Switzerland Innovation Park Ost AG aims to strengthen collaboration between companies and leading local research. As an innovation hub, it enables faster development and direct market access for innovations. In the fields of health, sensor technology and digitalisation, Innovationspark Ost provides support from ideation through innovation to the development of business models. Founded in 2021, Switzerland Innovation Park Ost AG merged in 2022 with the associations Startfeld and Startfeld Innovationszentrum. The Startfeld brand continues to be used for startup support.
Since 2021, Innovationspark Ost has been working to strengthen innovative power in the Eastern Switzerland region and the Principality of Liechtenstein. By connecting research and industry, innovations are accelerated and the development of new business models is promoted. But where and how exactly does Innovationspark Ost provide support? Here you get an overview of the benefits for SMEs and startups.
Benefit from knowledge transfer
SIP Ost is part of a diverse network. Research partners include EMPA, Kantonsspital St.Gallen, University of St.Gallen, OST – Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences, and RhySearch. Anyone who is part of the SIP Ost community has access to knowledge and research findings that flow into the development of marketable products, processes and services. SIP Ost focuses on three key themes from the regional economy: health and performance, sensor technology, and digitalisation.
Connect with the right people
For innovations to emerge and grow, it’s essential to know the right people. SIP Ost makes introductions, finds development partners, or connects you with experts who support entrepreneurs through conversations, professional advice or coaching.
Receive startup support
Startfeld, the startup support programme, is part of Innovationspark Ost. Ambitious founders from Eastern Switzerland benefit from a comprehensive support programme. Startups go through various stages in the support process. In the initial consultation, they receive valuable input on the opportunities and risks of their venture. Through a pitch before the expert committee, the startup can receive a support package, giving access to a wide range of services that take the startup to the next level. The final stage in the support process concludes with the Startfeld Foundation, ideally resulting in successful financing.
Become part of the community
One of SIP Ost’s strongest assets is its network. As a partner, member or sponsor, individuals or companies can become part of this diverse community — including access to SIP Ost’s offerings, such as event participation or services for SMEs, at reduced rates.
Get the right support along your journey
How SIP Ost can best support the development of innovations depends on the needs of startups and SMEs — so our offerings are just as diverse. Would you like to learn more, or do you have specific questions? Get in touch with us – we’re happy to find a solution together!
Find space for innovation
Innovationspark Ost is based at Campus Lerchenfeld. On a site of over 7,000 square metres, startups, SMEs and technology-oriented companies have made their home here. The rentable spaces are suitable for:
- Meetings or events
- Offices and labs
- Manufacturing processes with industrial requirements
- Co-working
