immo!nvest – Die Plattform für Standorte und Immobilien

Tag: Förderung

  • Ticino is one of Europe’s most innovative regions

    Ticino is one of Europe’s most innovative regions

    According to the European Commission’s Regional Innovation Scoreboard 2025, the canton of Ticino is one of the ten most innovative regions in Europe. In Switzerland, it is in second place directly behind Zurich. The high proportion of small and medium-sized companies that introduce process or product innovations is particularly noteworthy. The canton also occupies a top position nationally in terms of trade mark registration.

    University excellence with international networking
    The Università della Svizzera italiana (USI) strengthens the region’s academic innovative power with over 20 specialised research institutes. It specialises in areas such as biomedicine, computational science and finance. Its close integration into national and international funding networks makes the USI a key player in Ticino’s innovation system.

    Practice-orientated research for companies
    The University of Applied Sciences of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI) is also a key player in the innovation landscape. It has a high level of expertise in industrial automation, robotics and materials science and is characterised by the highest success rate in accessing European funding of all Swiss universities of applied sciences. Companies benefit from practical co-operation in applied research projects.

    Statutory innovation promotion with a broad impact
    The canton provides targeted support for innovation through the Economic Innovation Act. This offers comprehensive funding opportunities, from support for research programmes and investment projects to participation in trade fairs and internationalisation projects. It is implemented by the Office for Economic Development.

    Switzerland Innovation Park Ticino as a hub
    With the Switzerland Innovation Park Ticino, the canton is promoting the transfer between business and science. The emerging centres of excellence focus on key areas such as life sciences, ICT, drone technologies and the leisure industry. The aim is to develop technical and technological solutions that are highly relevant to the canton’s economy.

    https://projects.research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/en/statistics/performance-indicators/european-innovation-scoreboard/eis#/ris?compare_year=2025&year=2025
  • ProKilowatt 2025 tenders set new standards

    ProKilowatt 2025 tenders set new standards

    The submission phase for projects and programs to increase electricity efficiency in the industrial and service sectors as well as in households has been running since November 2024. With 49 applications submitted by mid-April 2025 alone, interest is around 30 percent higher than in the previous year. A record that underlines the potential for sustainable energy savings.

    Flexibility for companies – paperless and plannable
    The uncomplicated, digital application process and prompt processing within just four weeks make it easier for companies to integrate efficiency projects into their operational planning in a way that fits perfectly. Larger projects with a subsidy of up to six million francs can also be submitted at any time from this year onwards – a milestone for ambitious projects such as the replacement of large production facilities or the bundling of smaller measures.

    Concrete savings
    A project in the retail sector has already been approved for up to six million francs. Replacing existing refrigeration units will save an annual amount of electricity equivalent to the consumption of 4,500 households. Projects in industry also range from the replacement of presses and the optimization of printing machines to more efficient blowers in wastewater treatment plants.

    Competitive tenders as an instrument for the future
    The ProKilowatt program is financed by the Swiss Federal Office of Energy and implemented by CimArk SA in Sion. The subsidy, financed via a surcharge on the high-voltage grids, provides impetus for an energy-saving and competitive economy. The next deadline for project applications is November 2, 2025 – an important date for all companies that want to reduce their energy costs with innovative measures and contribute to the energy transition at the same time.

  • Der Switzerland Innovation Park Central

    Der Switzerland Innovation Park Central

    At Suurstoffi in Rotkreuz, the SIPC offers an inspiring environment that promotes dialogue and collaboration between over 120 partners from business, science and society. A vibrant innovation ecosystem is created here that efficiently translates new ideas into marketable solutions in the construction sector.

    Diverse formats to promote innovation
    In order to drive innovation, the SIPC works in five thematically focussed Future Labs, which specifically address current challenges such as the transformation to a circular economy in construction or new processing models
    in construction or new processing models. These labs are hybrid working environments with structured processes and formats that promote collaborative innovation. A variety of event and workshop formats as well as the digital community platform Jointcreate – a kind of “LinkedIn for innovation” – provide inspiration, empower participants and support the innovation process. The focus is always on implementation to achieve real impact. Financing and start-up advice as well as office and project space are available for this purpose.
    The SIPC also manages various programmes, such as the Circular Building Charter, an association of major real estate investors who are increasingly focusing on circular procurement and construction methods. The SIPC imparts knowledge in regular experience workshops. The open sharing of experiences in pioneering projects promotes dialogue within the industry.

    A contribution to the construction industry of tomorrow
    With its clear values – openness, fairness and professionalism – the SIPC makes a decisive contribution to the transformation of the construction industry. As a non-profit organisation, it pursues the motto “Building Excellence” and invites all interested parties to become part of this movement. Switzerland Innovation Park Central shows how innovation in the construction industry can promote not only technological progress but also social responsibility. By combining vision and practice, the SIPC is shaping a sustainable future and is an indispensable partner for anyone who wants to contribute to the construction industry of tomorrow.

  • Lucerne promotes circular construction projects

    Lucerne promotes circular construction projects

    The canton of Lucerne is joining forces with the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts to promote circular construction. The two partners have launched the Eco-Design in Building Construction tender, the cantonal state chancellery announced in a press release. Circular building projects are to be subsidised with a total of 200,000 Swiss francs in the coming year. Particularly innovative projects will also receive a material passport and consultancy services.

    Building owners from the private and public sectors as well as planners can apply for funding digitally from 13 January until 16 May. It does not matter whether the projects have already been realised or are still in the planning or implementation phase. However, the prerequisite for funding is that it is a construction project in the canton of Lucerne.

    We are looking for projects that follow the eco-design approach. According to this approach, buildings are designed to be durable and circular. In order to receive funding, the project should also have the character of a lighthouse, according to the press release. The canton and university want to use this to raise the profile of opportunities for sustainable construction and the circular economy and provide planners with the relevant knowledge.

  • Investments in the circular economy and decarbonisation strengthen CO2 strategy

    Investments in the circular economy and decarbonisation strengthen CO2 strategy

    Holcim receives a grant from the EU Innovation Fund for another major cleantech project. This brings the number of Holcim’s EU-funded CCUS projects to seven. According to a press release from the building materials manufacturer, this new carbon capture and storage (CCUS) project at its site in Martres-Tolosane in south-west France is a highly scalable plant based on mature technologies and close partnerships.

    Holcim had already announced an investment of 100 million euros in the sustainability of this cement plant in 2017. Between 2021 and 2023, Holcim invested a further 200 million euros in the decarbonisation of its French industrial facilities and made a further 60 million euros available for its continuation in May of this year.

    According to Holcim, these investments will have a leverage effect on the development of new sectors and jobs in the field of the circular economy on the one hand, and in the medium term in the field of carbon capture, storage and utilisation on the other. To this end, a new pilot platform, a real industrial test centre for open innovation, will be built at the Martres-Tolosane factory. It will be dedicated to improving new CO2 capture technologies.

    “Holcim is well on its way to making net-zero cement and concrete a reality on a large scale in this decade,” CEO Miljan Gutovic is quoted as saying in the press release. “This support from the EU Innovation Fund is a testament to the strength of our engineering teams, the maturity of our technologies and progressive partnerships across the value chain.”

  • Zug uses OECD minimum tax for location promotion

    Zug uses OECD minimum tax for location promotion

    In response to the imminent introduction of a global minimum tax for large international companies from 2024, which could potentially affect the canton’s competitiveness, the canton of Zug has developed plans to compensate for any locational disadvantages. The planned measures include the complete reinvestment of the expected additional revenue of around CHF 200 million per year in three priority areas: social infrastructure, innovative projects and sustainable development initiatives.

    Focus on social and innovative projects
    The planned social measures are aimed at making life more attractive for the population and the local economy. These include investments in needs-based childcare provision, higher contributions to public schools and measures to improve the living and working environment. In the area of infrastructure and innovation, the focus is on future-oriented projects. Initiatives such as the “Blockchain Zug Joint Research Initiative” and the “ETH Learning Factory Zug” are intended to increase competitiveness and quality of life in the canton by promoting sustainable energy supply and storage.

    Legal framework and financial planning
    In order to achieve these goals, the cantonal government is proposing a new “Location Development Act” that will introduce an efficient and flexible system of subsidies for sustainability and innovation. From 2026, CHF 150 million per year is earmarked for subsidies, with the maximum subsidy amount being approved annually by the Cantonal Council from 2029. This approach is intended to provide companies in the canton of Zug with planning and legal certainty.

    Finance Director Heinz Tännler emphasises that the planned measures are essential in order to maintain Zug as a preferred residential and business location. The public consultation on the new law will run until 15 September 2024 and the law is due to come into force on 1 January 2026. These strategic decisions demonstrate Zug’s commitment to maintaining its leading position despite global tax changes and remaining an attractive location for companies and skilled labour.

  • Canton of Zurich promotes electromobility with over 52,500 parking spaces

    Canton of Zurich promotes electromobility with over 52,500 parking spaces

    Since the introduction of the charging infrastructure funding programme, the canton of Zurich has taken decisive steps towards the electrification of transport. The programme, which runs until the end of 2026 and has a funding pot of CHF 50 million, has already secured over CHF 18 million in funding to equip car parks with charging stations. So far, over 52,500 car parks have been equipped for electric vehicles, which is a significant boost for electromobility in the canton.

    Construction Director Martin Neukom is delighted with the great response: “The strong demand for the funding programme confirms our commitment to a sustainable mobility future. The support makes it easier for many people to switch to electric vehicles and helps to reduce dependency on fossil fuels.”

    The programme not only supports private individuals, but also companies and municipalities. Over 800 applications for funding for fleet parking spaces have already been submitted. In addition, more and more municipalities are utilising the funding opportunities to develop their electric mobility concepts. This includes feasibility studies and location analyses for public charging infrastructure. Some municipalities have already expressed an interest in installing public charging stations in blue zones.

    Carmen Walker Späh, Director of Economic Affairs, emphasises the ecological benefits: “Our funding programme makes a significant contribution to reducing environmental pollution and increasing energy efficiency in the canton. As the transport sector is responsible for around 40 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions in Zurich, this is an important step towards climate-neutral mobility.”

    In view of the high demand, the funding pot could potentially be exhausted before the planned end of 2026. The canton plans to continue to monitor developments closely and provide regular updates on the status of the programme. A detailed presentation of the programme’s results and progress is planned for the second half of 2024.

  • Canton of Zurich initiates further promotion of mountain regions and wine-growing areas

    Canton of Zurich initiates further promotion of mountain regions and wine-growing areas

    The Canton of Zurich wants to further promote the Zurich mountain region and the wine country within the framework of the federal government’s New Regional Policy, informs the Cantonal Office for Landscape and Nature in a statement. A corresponding implementation programme focuses on sustainable tourism, the marketing of regional products and the promotion of innovation by SMEs. A total of 6.2 million Swiss francs are to be spent on this between 2024 and 2027.

    The Zurich cantonal government has already approved an amount of around 3.3 million Swiss francs. Further funding of CHF 2.4 million is being requested from the federal government. The remaining funds will be provided by the cantons of Thurgau and St.Gallen and the municipalities in the two regions. For the implementation of the projects, the Canton of Zurich is working together with the Zürioberland location promotion agency and ProWeinland. Corresponding service agreements are to be concluded “as soon as the federal government has approved the programme”, according to the statement.

    To promote sustainable tourism, the canton wants to position the mountain region and the wine country even more strongly as an excursion and local recreation area. In the marketing of regional products, it is also planned to explore “in the sense of the circular economy” “how material cycles can be closed in the regions”.

    SMEs in the Zurich mountain region already have access to innovation promotion, coaching and networking through a supracantonal programme. SMEs in Weinland should also be able to take advantage of these funding opportunities from 2028. The Office for Landscape and Nature explains that the Weinland is working on the corresponding basics.

  • Gfeller & Käufeler is a member of Limmatstadt with a new management team

    Gfeller & Käufeler is a member of Limmatstadt with a new management team

    Gfeller & Käufeler, a company specialising in real estate consulting and marketing, announces the retirement of its co-founder and senior partner Heinz Germann as of 1 April in a message on LinkedIn. He was a member of the executive board with Daniel Gfeller and Michael Käufeler and is now retiring. The company has twelve employees and is based in Wettingen.

    The business area is the eastern Limmat valley from Spreitenbach to Würenlingen, according to the real estate company’s website. In the greater Baden-Wettingen region, the company has precise knowledge of the real estate market. In addition, services are also offered in the surrounding area.

    Heinz Germann founded Germann Immobilien in 1996. in 2000, according to the Gfeller & Käufeler website, the company merged with Daniel Gfeller of Gfeller Immobilien in Spreitenbach and then founded Germann & Gfeller Immobilien AG. In 2021, Germann sold his shareholding to Michael Käufeler and the company then traded as Gfeller & Käufeler Immobilien AG.

    According to a statement by Limmatstadt AG, the company Gfeller & Käufeler works together with the location promotion. The company is now a member of Limmatstadt AG. More than 200 shareholders and members of the Location Promotion are committed to the image of the Limmat City in its entirety and diversity.

  • Halter is committed to digital building

    Halter is committed to digital building

    According to a press release, Schlierem-based real estate developer Halter AG is supporting the Design++ Centre for Augmented Computational Design in Architecture, Engineering and Construction at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich(ETH) with a generous donation to the ETH Foundation over six years.

    At the centre, digital tools and processes are being developed that simultaneously improve design, increase productivity in the construction process, enhance the quality of buildings and reduce their ecological impact. To this end, current knowledge from the fields of artificial intelligence with a focus on machine learning and augmented reality will flow into architecture and civil engineering.

    “The development and establishment of novel processes and business models is imperative to increase the productivity and sustainability of the construction industry, not least with regard to a relevant reduction of CO2 emissions,” Balz Halter, Chairman of the Board of Halter AG, is quoted as saying. “The Design++ Centre at ETH Zurich with its promising approach represents a very important commitment for us in this regard,” Halter continues.

    Halter AG’s support will primarily be used for the establishment of a fellowship programme to promote digital design and construction at the Zentrum Design++. Talented researchers are to further develop promising technologies to market maturity in order to contribute to resource efficiency, circular economy and the reduction of carbon emissions in architecture and civil engineering through new business models.

  • Strengthen Switzerland as a location for innovation and expand the lead

    Strengthen Switzerland as a location for innovation and expand the lead

    The Swiss economy is characterized by an enormously high level of innovation and has been able to secure its leading position worldwide in recent years despite the strong Swiss franc. The vocational training system, the close interaction between research and business, start-ups and corporations as well as the high willingness to found new companies are the cornerstones of the recipe for success. The pandemic and the associated restrictions have put great pressure on the economy in all European countries.
    This is a valuable opportunity for Switzerland to further expand its lead in key areas through targeted funding with existing or new instruments.

  • In-house Livit Academy celebrates its 15th anniversary

    In-house Livit Academy celebrates its 15th anniversary

    Since its foundation in 2007, the academy has repeatedly taken innovative paths and has developed from offering a once compact course program to today's industry-wide known competence center. It is an expression of Livit's strategic orientation of investing heavily in its employees and supporting them in achieving their goals – the credo to this day.

    For the practice of most professional groups, different skills are required today than 15 years ago. The (working) world is becoming more and more digital, the flow of information is faster and job profiles are changing. Livit recognized the opportunities offered by new technologies and has become more and more modern in recent years. The Livit Academy developed accordingly and acted as a sparring partner in change management. In an accompanying function, she supports employees in remaining professionally qualified and in being able to develop culturally with the organization and strategic orientation.

    Prepared for the future
    The complexity will continue to increase and the specialization of the job profiles will affect the professional requirements and the need for training and further education, says Judith Engel, head of the Livit Academy. This also means that cooperation is becoming increasingly important in order to achieve more together. The Livit Academy recently initiated a cooperation with the SVIT, the HWZ and Wincasa and jointly developed further training in the field of real estate accounting, which will start in March 2022 for the first time. The future is all about cooperation: Livit is also intensifying this with Swiss Life Asset Managers – with the launch of the “AM Academy”, of which the Livit Academy is a part. Together with the parent company, Livit is expanding its know-how in the national and international real estate market, using synergies and promoting networking.

  • Schaffhausen extends contract with Generis AG

    Schaffhausen extends contract with Generis AG

    Generis AG will continue to run the economic development agency for the canton of Schaffhausen until 2024. The same applies to the office for the promotion of regional and location development. The government council decided this at its meeting on Tuesday.

    The service contract currently runs until the end of 2022. After that, it can be extended for a further two years for the last time. At the beginning of 2015, Generis AG was awarded the contract to manage both facilities.

    As stated in a communication from the government council, Generis AG has “so far fulfilled its mandate very well. The results achieved to date in the field of business development represent a real success story. ”That is why the service contract is now being extended.

  • Innosuisse aims to promote high-risk projects with a lot of potential

    Innosuisse aims to promote high-risk projects with a lot of potential

    The federal government has set the strategic goals for Innosuisse for the years 2021 to 2024. According to a media release , he expects the agency to focus on projects with a higher risk and "above-average economic potential". The selection should be made after “careful consideration” of the projects.

    Innosuisse should also focus on thematic tenders. The aim is to ensure that innovation topics of "great and cross-sectoral importance" are taken up. This includes the federal government, for example, key issues of digitization as well as challenges in connection with sustainability or coping with the corona pandemic.

    Innosuisse should also ensure that SMEs have easy access to the services of research institutions. The agency should attach great importance to young companies that come from the university environment.

    Innosuisse will also be commissioned to implement the Swiss Innovation Power Initiative in 2021 and 2022. The program is intended to help companies maintain their innovation activities despite the recession phase. This is not only in the interests of companies, but also important for the competitiveness of Switzerland as a business location.

    Innosuisse is a federal institution under public law with its own legal personality. Through the agency, the federal government promotes science-based innovation in Switzerland.