Businesses and entrepreneurship are a core area of the Institute’s national and European research activities. We study different forms of businesses (e.g. one-person businesses, hybrid entrepreneurs, older entrepreneurs, female entrepreneurship, multi-entrepreneurs, etc.) as well as their different life cycles, business models and innovation activities. The innovation activities of companies are an essential factor for a successful entrepreneurship. The Austrian Institute for SME Research regularly conducts analyses of innovation processes in companies as well as of the research, technology and innovation policy framework conditions and their effects on the development of companies and innovations in Austria and Europe. The connections between technology and innovation on the one hand and entrepreneurship (e.g. new business models) on the other are also analysed.
The Austrian Institute for SME Research has been regularly analyzing the situation and development of one-person enterprises in Austria since 2007. In a comprehensive study and survey of around 2,000 one-person entrepreneurs in 2022, the diverse characteristics of their entrepreneurial activities were examined more closely.
The report "SMEs in Focus 2023" uses current data and facts to show the importance of small and medium-sized enterprises for the Austrian economy. One focus chapter is devoted to the topic of "Innovative strength of SMEs". Furthermore, the report offers an overview of recent SME support measures, which are oriented towards the three pillars of the SME strategy of the European Commission. The report was submitted to the National Council by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Economy.
Federal Ministry for Labour and Economy
2024/03
Karin Bachinger
Mehr InfoThe Research and Technology Report is the Austrian federal government's status report on federally funded research, technology and innovation in Austria. Based on current data, analyses and findings, relevant development trends and selected topics of the Austrian innovation system are described and reflected in an international context. The report will be produced annually by the Austrian Institute for SME Research until 2026.
Bundesbeschaffung GmbH,
Federal Ministry for Labour and Economy,
Austrian Federal Ministry for Climate Action, Environment, Energy, Mobility, Innovation and Technology,
Austrian Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Regions and Tourism
Peter Kaufmann
PublicationsFollowing an action research approach, TranS4MEr will identify priority areas for climate action in the SME sector and develop climate mitigation policy goals and mixes that are able to address the heterogeneity of SMEs. The implementation of a ‘transformative SME policy hub’ and analysis of key mechanisms that underpin the integration or disintegration of climate concerns in SME policy will set the foundation for a long-term reorientation of SME policy.
Austrian Climate and Energy Fund
2025/04
Harald Wieser
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