Winterthur cluster initiative sums up successful 2025

(CONNECT) The sponsors of the Winterthur Cluster Initiative can look back on an "extremely successful year 2025", according to their press release. In an economically challenging environment, the initiative has "established itself as a central hub for innovation and growth in the region". The initiators - the Chamber of Commerce and Employers' Association Winterthur (HAW), Technopark Winterthur and House of Winterthur - are delighted with the stable networks and consistent cooperation between business, educational institutions and research facilities. This was reflected in "valuable synergies" at events and joint projects.

The cluster initiative was launched in 2020 and covers three sectors: energy, healthcare and machinery. They are intended to strengthen the innovation activities of the participating companies through the active exchange of knowledge and experience and targeted development projects, thereby securing prosperity in the region.

Emission-free aviation, the digital product passport and green hydrogen were among the topics discussed at various well-attended events in 2025. In addition, "groundbreaking advances" in axial flux motors and the potential of solid-state batteries for electromobility were presented at the Startup Nights.

The fifth award ceremony for the best student work of the year, which is endowed with 10,000 francs, is described as a highlight of the year. It is awarded by the Johann Jacob Rieter Foundation of the Winterthur spinning technology company Rieter and the HAW.

In 2026, those responsible for the three clusters are planning to coordinate their programs even more closely. The aim is to make optimum use of interfaces and promote cross-thematic innovations. ce/mm