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Ever wondered what Impact Hub Zürich has to offer? Join us for the fifth edition of our annual Open Hub Day and discover the vibrant community we have built.
We’re a diverse and inclusive community of entrepreneurs, startups, techies, politicians, creatives, activists, artists, and change-seekers. Together, we share a wealth of knowledge and experience in Circular Economy, Entrepreneurship, Innovation, Sustainability, Digitalization, and more. We believe that tackling the world’s grand challenges requires collaboration and the creation of spaces where we can come together and work towards common goals.
At the Open Hub Day, expect engaging workshops, talks & presentations, a bustling marketplace, various networking opportunities, and of course, the finest coffee in town at Café Auer & Co.
We’ll wrap up the day with live music, delicious food, and refreshing drinks.
Mark your calendars and become part of something bigger.
Let’s innovate and celebrate together! 🎉
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Success stories and pioneering work: how generative AI is inspiring the business world
The specialist book by Sophie Hundertmark and Dr. Daniela Suter “Generative AI for companies” will be presented to the public on June 26, 2024. Take part in the discussion and the subsequent networking event.
A brief input on the opportunities and risks of generative AI for Swiss companies will be followed by a panel discussion with representatives from business and politics, moderated by Sophie Hundertmark and Daniela Suter. During the discussion, all guests are welcome to contribute their questions and input on the topic of “Generative AI in companies”.
The evening ends with a cozy aperitif.
Employees in management positions and project managers in particular are invited. But anyone else who is interested in the topic of AI or would like to make valuable contacts with like-minded people or sparring partners is also cordially invited to register.
We look forward to seeing you!
Daniela Suter and Sophie Hundertmark
Our speakers:
Dr. iur. Nicole Vögeli GalliAttorney-at-law and Certified Specialist SBA Employment Law, Head of Social Law & Lecturer at the ZHAW School of Management and Law, Partner, Küng & Vögeli Attorneys-at-Law.
Matthias Niklowitz: Journalist at Handelzeitung.ch and Head of Research at e-foresight, Swisscom’s next-gen banking think tank in Zurich.
More to follow shortly…
We would like to thank our partners and sponsors for making this event possible.
“We work in and with the Microsoft Cloud. We advise you in the areas of collaboration, data science, AI and automation, support and implement your projects and train your employees in the new technologies.” Matthias Falland (co-founder and guest author of the book).
As a media partner we have CMM360 the platform for Customer Relations Stars and CX & Service Champions.
Karl der Grosse – Our location for the evening
News
Zurich – LatticeFlow AI, specialist for project solutions with artificial intelligence (AI), joins the U.S. AI Safety Institute Consortium. The decision is intended to help make methods and uses of AI safer and minimize risks.
LatticeFlow AI, a spin-off of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich(ETH), has announced that it has joined the U.S. AI Safety Institute Consortium (AISIC). According to a press release, the company wants to work with other consortium members to help design methods, benchmarks and test environments in such a way that the use of artificial intelligence becomes more secure and exposes companies to fewer risks. The search for such secure solutions is based on the fact that AI programs that work on real data pose a major challenge to business security and can generate risks in business-critical processes.
The AISIC consortium was therefore founded with the intention of enabling the secure and trustworthy development and use of AI and developing standards for this. LatticeFlow AI made one such contribution with a technical AI assessment for Migros Bank.
"Joining AISIC will allow us to accelerate and expand our impact by aligning our efforts to ensure AI trust and safety with global AI leaders, businesses and governments," Petar Tsankov, co-founder and CEO of LatticeFlow AI, is quoted as saying in the announcement. ce/ww
LatticeFlow AI joins the U.S. AI Safety Institute Consortium. Symbolic image: denflinkegrafiker/Pixabay
Startups
Run your Syndicate online with LEVA
LEVA is an award-winning online platform that allows you to easily raise capital from your network of co-investors and invest in the most promising private companies. The platform streamlines all administration tasks allowing you to focus on what really matters: your deal flow and your co-investor network.
The Venture Syndicate
Traditional SPVs are cumbersome, complex, and expensive. Therefore, LEVA has developed the Venture Syndicate. A legally secure and compliant pooling solution, that offers all the advantages of an SPV and at the same time is scalable and cost efficient.
Hohlstrasse 188
8004 Zürich
Corporate Innovation Labs
Trifork is a global NextGen IT company that develops innovative software solutions in collaboration with its customers. The company has more than 950 employees, across 58 business units, with offices in 12 countries in Europe and the USA, and works in six business areas: Digital Health, FinTech, Smart Building, Cloud Operations, Cyber Protection and Smart Enterprise. Trifork’s research and development takes place in Trifork Labs, where Trifork continuously co-invests and develops technology start-up companies. Trifork is behind the brand, GOTO, which runs a global tech community with over 275,000 subscribers and more than 30 million views on YouTube.
Neuhofstrasse 10
8834 Feusisberg
Smart Buildings, Cloud Operations, Cyber Protection, Smart Enterprise, Design Labs, Trifork Labs
Corporate Innovation Labs
We, Girtec AG, are a mechanical engineering company. We see ourselves as a system and component supplier. Our range of services extends from trading in individual parts (pumps, micropumps, valves, etc.) to the supply of spare parts via engineering according to specifications, prototype construction, pilot series through to series production of turnkey components.
Palmenstrasse 1
8583 Sulgen
Voices
What does innovation mean to Philippe Ganz? That's what we asked the co-founder and CEO of aiEndoscopic.
Voices
Was bedeutet für Stefan Leuthold eigentlich Innovation? Das haben wir den Co-Founder und CEO des Healthtechpark Zürich-Schlieren gefragt.
Voices
We asked Thomas Gemperle from Scewo, Mike Niekerk from Benchling and Angela Beckenbauer from ZHAW how they can benefit from Innovation Zurich.
Voices
Parquery, an ETH spin-off, is a Zurich-based software company specializing in computer vision, a field within artificial intelligence (AI) that enables computers to extract meaningful information from digital images and videos. Thanks to the Innovation-Sandbox and the cooperation with the city of Frauenfeld, they are now making a significant contribution to using parking spaces on site more efficiently while effectively taking data protection aspects into account. Additionally, the Innovation-Sandbox ensures that other municipalities can benefit from their pioneering project as well.
The Innovation Sandbox for Artificial Intelligence is a test environment for the implementation of AI projects. The Sandbox is designed to promote responsible innovation by allowing the administration and participating organizations to work closely on regulatory issues and to enable the use of novel data sources.
News
From March 1, 2024, the canton of Zurich will boast its very own Digital Innovation Hub. The cantonal laboratory will be headed by Maren Kottler, who previously worked as the Manager of Foresight & Open Innovation at Swiss Post. This confirmation comes from the Department of Finance, where the Office for Informatics (AFI) is based, in response to inquiries. Under her leadership, four experts will work to establish a community platform and intertwine and connect ongoing initiatives, such as the AI Sandbox, with stakeholders from education, business, and administration.
At the moment, the canton is actively seeking IT services in over 14 areas for application management, covering aspects like Virtual and Augmented Reality, Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, and Blockchain. As of now, there is currently no central overview of innovation topics, as stated by a spokesperson from the Finance Department. The Digital Innovation Hub aims to change this. The community platform is intended to provide an overview of the administration's innovative projects and facilitate technology transfer among them.
The canton is looking for providers for blockchain applications who can handle up to 300 person-days annually by 2027, as needed. This includes projects for applications, as well as feasibility studies, consulting, and training for the canton's employees. Additionally, support and assistance in operation are also required.
However, it's more of a preventive procurement in this case. The press office states that there are currently no known concrete projects where blockchain is being used for business transactions, or at least under consideration. However, it cannot be ruled out that the technology may be utilized in products from suppliers.
It's a different story when it comes to Artificial Intelligence. The technology is already being used in voice and chatbots, where it aims to recognize user intent and provide appropriate responses. Other examples of AI projects include the 'Digital Learning Hub' from the Middle and Vocational School Office and the 'Innovation Sandbox' from the Department of Economic Affairs. The use of AI is outlined in a cantonal guideline, and current projects are listed on the canton's website.
Moreover, IoT devices are already in use in the canton as well. The Office for Informatics for instance utilizes sensors installed under desks. These generate data on the occupancy of the workstations. Additional sensors generate information on the indoor climate and acoustics. Research on augmented and virtual reality is being conducted at the Strickhof Institute for Education and Research. At the Olma fair, the Strickhof booth, according to the press office, demonstrated using VR glasses how the internal organs of a cow look and how digestion is influenced by different feeding strategies.
Author: Thomas Schwendener
News
Around 60 entrepreneurs and managers from Uster and the Zurich Oberland took part in the event on March 11 and engaged in a lively discussion with experts on the topics of sustainability, the circular economy and innovation. Bank BSU from Uster was welcomed as a partner organization. It has been working on this topic for many years and has set up an internal committee with representatives from all divisions. In order to measure the success of the measures implemented, a sustainability reportis produced every year and Bank BSU's carbon footprint is measured.
After the welcoming address by the host Davide Maccabruni(CEO Uster Technologies AG), the program began with a presentation by Prof. Olaf Holstein on the topic of "Circular economy - the key to the future". He highlighted the challenges for strategic management and also for the next generations. He cited the reduction of energy consumption and raw materials as the main focus. Production, trade and sales are to be rethought. New products are to be made from old raw materials.
Renato Vögeli (Managing Director) from Druckerei Vögeli AG used practical examples to show how the printing industry can also succeed in making products 100% recyclable. The Emmental-based print shop has entered into partnerships with print shops in Austria and Denmark.
Eva Bergmann from Step Zero AG showed how a 100% recyclable sneaker makes Step Zero AG's mission a reality. Step Zero AG replaces synthetics to enable a circular footwear industry. An outsole that is 100% biodegradable and therefore does not release microplastics when worn is already available today. An important insight of Step Zero AG: "Small steps bring great success".
Anja Schleth (Project Manager) from Uster Technologies AG presented her company's commitment to sustainability. The company is particularly proud of its "great place to work" certification. Uster Technologies Ltd has developed a vision and mission for the complex issue of sustainability from the bottom up, i.e. from the grass roots, with volunteers.
During the subsequent networking aperitif, experts discussed with the guests and exchanged experiences and insights.
News
Shot of a young businesswoman having a discussion with her colleague in a modern office
News
Surplus food can now be traded on Circunis. Farms can offer their surplus produce on the platform or search specifically for the Swiss fruit and vegetables they need. The B2B marketplace of the Zurich-based association Mehr als zwei is the first to create a nationwide basis for ensuring that food remains in the cycle instead of ending up in the bin. In this way, Circunis wants to contribute to the national goal of halving food waste by 2030.
"Most companies want to operate more sustainably," CEO and co-founder Olivia Menzi is quoted as saying in a press release. "Circunis now offers the necessary network - and it's very quick and easy." Initial success stories from the pilot phase have shown that the sale and purchase of surplus food is not only sustainable and therefore sensible, but also economically worthwhile. Circunis cites criteria such as additional revenue instead of disposal costs, freed-up storage space, time savings and attractive purchasing conditions.
The implementation of the project is made possible by the Migros Pioneer Fund and the Seedling Foundation. The annual fee for using the B2B marketplace is based on the company's turnover and starts at CHF 250. New participants receive a 50 percent discount on the first annual fee until the end of September 2024. ce/mm
The team behind Circunis from left to right: Fiona Wicki, Olivia Menzi, Corina Koster, Micha Krautwasser, and Karin Friedli. Image: Circunis
News
Frozen Swiss vegetables, fruit and pulses are just some of the more than 60 tons of foodstuffs that are listed on the Circunis B2B marketplace at launch. Companies can not only record their surpluses, but also search specifically for the food they need. This makes it easy to see and trade food surpluses throughout Switzerland. Trade takes place directly from farm to farm. Circunis serves as a bridge builder and connects producers, food processors, system and care gastronomy as well as wholesalers.
"Most businesses want to operate more sustainably. Circunis now offers the necessary network for this - and it's very quick and easy," emphasizes co-founder Olivia Menzi.
Sustainable and economic benefits for participants
Initial success stories from the pilot phase show that the sale or purchase of surplus food not only makes sustainable sense, but is also economically worthwhile: additional income instead of disposal costs, freed-up storage space, time savings and attractive purchasing conditions.
Circunis participants have full access to the B2B marketplace circunis.ch and benefit from an easily accessible and Switzerland-wide network. The annual fee is based on the company's turnover and starts at CHF 250/year.
Important basis for a Swiss-wide cycle
Today, around 40% of all food worldwide is overproduced and ends up as waste. Switzerland has set itself the goal of halving its food surpluses by 2030. The new B2B marketplace of the Mehr als zwei association is the first to create a basis for establishing a Swiss-wide cycle for dealing with surpluses. The implementation of the project is made possible by the Migros Pioneer Fund and Seedling Foundation.
→ Find out more now at circunis.ch and contribute to a sustainable Swiss food industry together. New participants receive a 50% discount on the first annual fee until the end of September 2024.
News
The Swiss Umbrella Organization for Business Succession (CHDU) has entered into partnerships with three other players in the field of business succession. According to a press release, the aim is to expand its offering for entrepreneurs who want to pass on their company or, conversely, take over a company.
The consulting firm Tfy, based in Arosa GR, supports companies in becoming fit for the future and succession. This includes analysis as well as strategy development in the area of sustainability.
Purpose Switzerland offers both proven and alternative models for solving succession issues. The experts in the network advise on the implementation of a suitable succession solution.
The Smallholders' Association has been offering a contact point for non-family farm succession since 2014. This simplifies the search process both for those who want to sell a farm and for those looking for one.
Together with EXPERTsuisse, the CHDU already offers a series of seminars for consultants who are involved in the succession of companies. An introductory seminar is now followed by three in-depth seminars. The first, on May 22, is dedicated to basic legal tools. This is followed by seminars on communication and on the process of searching for transferees.
The CHDU was founded in 2021. It advocates the appropriate discussion of SME succession in politics and research as well as the professionalization of succession consulting and offers SMEs practical support. ce/stk
The Swiss Association for Business Succession is expanding its range of services and training offerings. Symbolic image: StartupStockPhotos/Pixabay
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News
Cargologic modernizes the material flow computer for its automated shuttle warehouse in Kloten during ongoing operations. According to a press release, the subsidiary of the German logistics group Rhenus is investing a good year's time and around 1.5 million Swiss francs in the project.
This is "like open-heart surgery", Marco Gredig, Managing Director of Cargologic, is quoted as saying. "As a result, we can no longer take the system out of operation for testing purposes - a changeover to new software must therefore take place immediately," says Reto Nüesch Erismann, Executive Vice President Technics & Applications. This is to be achieved by means of a complex project for which the Swiss air freight handler has entered into a partnership with the software company LplusR from Parkstein in Bavaria, which specializes in the modernization of high-availability warehouse systems.
The core of the overall package is a digital twin with which LplusR virtualizes and emulates the shuttle warehouse with 8,500 pallet spaces down to the hardware level. "This is the only way we are independent of old documentation and can reliably test the system, minimize risks and guarantee successful, immediate commissioning," explains Gunther Lukas, Managing Director and project manager at LplusR.
Cargologic wants to bring its system landscape up to the state of the art and simplify it. This should further optimize the performance of the overall system, ensure complete transparency across all shipments and offer employees a significantly improved user interface. In addition, mobile devices allow for more efficient maintenance and troubleshooting, which increases the overall reliability of the system. ce/mm
Cargologic is modernizing the material flow controller for its automated shuttle warehouse. Image: Excerpt from Cargologic video
Innovation Hubs
It is precisely in the early phase of a startup's business development that the course is set that will massively influence its future chances of success. Professional guidance and support for young entrepreneurs is of central importance here, because they usually do not have management experience and access to infrastructure.
The glatec support association operates a "Business Incubator" in Dübendorf to facilitate and support startups and innovation processes in the field of materials science, environmental science and technology.
Empa
Überlandstrasse 129
8600 Dübendorf
Coworking Spaces
Where people work, meet and connect.
In the modern startup space, we offer co-working workstations and offices, a domiciliation service, meeting rooms and seminar rooms, the LOX restaurant, and an event space for up to 300 people. The location was completely renovated in autumn 2021 and is now very popular with tenants (startups, SMEs, corporates, initiatives) and users of the seminar and event space. The startup space is located directly at Schlieren railway station and can be reached by public transport from Zurich main station in just 9 minutes. There are also over 100 parking spaces available. Come and experience startup space.
work space
Do you only need a flexible workspace from time to time or an entire office for your team? With us, you can expect state-of-the-art workplaces in an innovative and thriving working environment just nine minutes from Zurich's main train station.
event space
Company event, workshop, seminar, congress or your private birthday party - event space is your location for every occasion. In various rooms as well as on our terrace we offer space for small and large events with up to 350 people and individual catering service.
community
We shape the future together. Exchange ideas and get inspired by our community. As a member of the community, you are part of an innovative network of founders and investors and always stay up to date via the startup space web app.
LOX
In our in-house gastronomy you will be spoiled daily with fresh and local delicacies. With the Arbeitskette Foundation, we also represent a restaurateur who combines social commitment with entrepreneurial thinking and action.
Direkt am Bahnhof Schlieren - 9 Min. vom ZH HB
Wiesenstrasse 10A
8952 Schlieren
Innovation Hubs
The IPZ creates a new, optimally networked platform for research, development, and innovation for cooperation between science and industry on the site of the Dübendorf airfield.
Stiftung Innovationspark Zürich
Wangenstr. 68
8600 Dübendorf