Why Switzerland for agtech and foodtech?
Traditionally strong in the food, agriculture & nutrition sectors, and with international companies such as Nestlé, Timac Agro, or Givaudan, Switzerland aims to drive foodtech innovation by leveraging its world-class research institutes, solid technological know-how, highly qualified workforce, change-minded consumers and leading players across the ecosystem.
A world-leading country in innovation
Switzerland is a hotbed of research and innovation, as shown by its top ranking in the Global Innovation Index. Swiss companies continue to lead in patent applications per capita, with foodtech ranking second after pharma. Over 3% of the country’s GDP is allocated to R&D funds, and knowledge transfer between universities and companies is highly effective. Constantly innovating in the food industry, Switzerland is positioning itself as a foodtech and agritech hub by advocating more sustainable food systems.
A booming ecosystem
Swiss authorities actively encourage innovative agrifood projects, attracting over 300 players to the competitive foodtech hub. Leading institutions like the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL) and federal organizations like Agroscope promote a dynamic and innovative agrifood ecosystem, while national initiatives like the Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley create opportunities for market growth.
Dedicated infrastructures
Agrifood and techfood companies looking for a stimulating environment to grow and experiment with big ideas can set up shop in one of the dedicated technology parks in Western Switzerland. AgriCo, the Swiss Campus for Agri and Food Innovation, focuses on value creation in the areas of agriculture, nutrition and biomass. It encompasses large industrial parcels suitable for construction, offices and laboratories available for rent, as well as one million square meters of agricultural land for full-scale field trials.
About the GGBa
The Greater Geneva Bern area (GGBa) is Western Switzerland’s economic promotion agency.
We help international companies, especially agtech and foodtech industries, to get established quickly and develop their activities in Western Switzerland (in the cantons of Bern, Fribourg, Vaud, Neuchâtel, Geneva and Valais).
Since its creation in 2010, the GGBa, in cooperation with the cantonal economic promotion agencies, has guided hundreds of companies from around the world in launching their activities in the region.
Contact us
Contact us to learn more about how we can support you in growing your Agtech business in Western Switzerland.
All services of the GGBa are provided confidentially and free of charge.
As a startup, in Western Switzerland we can easily find the right help or advice for our specific needs.
Paul Charmillot, Founder and CEO, MagicTomato.ch
Switzerland is home to a unique innovation ecosystem for food and nutrition. Together, we can more effectively address global challenges such as delicious, nutritious and affordable food for all, sustainable packaging, and climate change mitigation.
Stefan Palzer, CTO, Nestlé