Switzerland is one of the leading innovation hubs in Europe. With around 50,000 new companies founded every year – a significant proportion of which are in the technology or service-oriented sector – it has a stable start-up environment with growing potential for start-ups.

In 2024 alone , 52,978 new companies were registered, which corresponds to an increase of 2.6% compared to the previous year. In the ICT, biotech, medtech, cleantech and fintech sectors in particular, there is a continuously growing interest in start-ups – supported by targeted funding structures and an innovation-friendly ecosystem.

Attractive start-up environment

Stable legal framework conditions, a well-trained labour market, a high quality of life and internationally recognized universities provide a solid foundation for business start-ups. In addition, there are tax advantages in certain cantons and comparatively easy access to capital – both from private and institutional sources.

Switzerland once again ranks first in the Global Innovation Index 2023 – a clear indicator of the quality of its innovation landscape.

Public funding and support

Switzerland promotes entrepreneurship at various levels. The federal government, cantons and private organizations offer a dense network of support programs:

• Innosuisse: The Swiss Innovation Agency supports start-ups with coaching, innovation cheques, access to networks and project funding – even without research partners in the early stages.
• Cantonal business development programs: Depending on the location, low-interest loans, tax breaks or access to cantonal innovation centers are offered.
• Technology centers & incubators: Facilities such as Technopark Zurich, the EPFL Innovation Park or Switzerland Innovation promote the exchange between science and business and offer infrastructure, coaching and international networking.
• Financing options: In addition to traditional bank financing, venture capital funds, business angels and crowdfunding platforms are important building blocks for financing growth phases. Switzerland is one of the leading countries in Europe for venture capital investments per capita.

Growth with responsibility: challenges for founders

Despite the attractive environment, start-ups face complex requirements: Regulatory requirements, structural organization of accounting, controlling, HR and IT as well as compliance with data protection and tax rules are crucial to success from the outset. Particularly in highly regulated sectors, sound support from experienced partners is essential.

Our contribution

The Meng & Partner Group supports start-ups and growth-oriented companies in all business, tax and administrative matters.
With our expertise in fiduciary services, taxes, auditing, HR administration and management consulting/business informatics, we create the basis for sustainable growth and entrepreneurial clarity – from foundation to scaling.