The global challenges of our time - from climate change and energy problems to health and mobility - call for innovative and sustainable solutions. Styrian start-ups in particular are contributing to overcoming these crises with their ideas and technologies. To honour this commitment and promote the region's innovative strength, SPIRIT of Styria 2025 magazine is once again presenting the SPIRIT Start-up Award. The award aims to set an example in challenging times and motivate entrepreneurs to drive their ideas forward.
The categories of the award
Under the motto ‘Styrian Solutions for Global Challenges’, start-ups and scale-ups are being sought that develop innovative business models in the areas of green, health and mobility. The conditions of participation emphasise the social and sustainable impact of the projects submitted. In addition, female founders in particular are invited to submit their ideas and become part of the up-and-coming Styrian start-up scene.
An award that creates visibility
The winners can look forward to more than just recognition. In addition to an editorial feature on the cover of the February issue of SPIRIT of Styria, there is prize money of 6,000 euros and the legendary Startup Rocket by artist Tom Lohner. There is also the opportunity to be accompanied by Styrian investors and business angels in mentoring programmes - valuable support for successfully forging your own path in the start-up world.
The jury: Expertise and public voting
A high-calibre jury of investors, business angels and experts from the startup ecosystem will decide on the winners. At the same time, readers of the website will also have the opportunity to support their favourites and the decision will be based on the jury's assessment and the public vote. The winners will then be announced on 18 February 2025 as part of the 8th anniversary celebration of SPIRIT of Styria magazine in Graz.
Support during the crisis
In an interview with the magazine, Oliver Kröpfl, member of the Management Board of Steiermärkische Sparkasse, emphasises that the path of a start-up is never easy, especially not in turbulent times. Dagmar Eigner-Stengg, Head of the Start-up Centre, also emphasises the importance of resilience and the ability to adapt flexibly to new circumstances. Sparkasse Steiermark's Start-up Centre has been supporting start-ups since 2001 by providing comprehensive advice on financing and funding issues as well as networking with investors. For the Sparkasse, successful start-ups are an important investment in the future of the region.
Network for innovation and exchange
In addition to Sparkasse, numerous other partners support the initiative, including Steiermärkische Sparkasse, Steirische Wirtschaftsförderung SFG, the City of Graz and Merkur Versicherung. They are all united by the conviction that a strong and networked start-up ecosystem strengthens Styria as a business location and ensures sustainable development.
The SPIRIT Start-up Award not only celebrates Styria's innovative strength, but also sends out an important signal in difficult times. The award is a valuable platform to give start-ups the visibility they need and to find an audience for their pioneering solutions. The following applies to all start-up enthusiasts: submit now and actively help shape the future of Styria!
Registration is now open on the website spiritofstyria.at.
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