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Applied research for a future-proof economy

Impact of the FFG basic programs in the commercial sector

The FFG's core programs encourage technology-driven research and development within Austria's commercial sector. Around 1,000 companies, primarily SMEs, benefit from them every year. These programs strengthen competitiveness, export power, and climate protection. For every euro of funding, there is a median turnover of €8.60. Thus, the programs ensure sustainable innovation and growth.

New economic data for trade and crafts

The current survey shows a decline in orders and sales in Austrian trade and crafts in the first quarter of 2025, though it is less severe than last year. The business situation is improving slightly. Capacity utilization remains high in capital goods-related sectors, while consumer-related sectors are developing cautiously. Personnel planning remains stable.

Austrian Research and Technology Report 2025 published

The Research and Technology Report is the Austrian federal government's status report on federally funded research, technology and innovation in Austria. In 2023, the focus topic was "Green Transformation in Research and Economy".

Qualification requirements for the circular economy in Austria

The study analyses the short-, medium- and long-term qualification needs of the Austrian circular economy. It identifies gaps and assesses how FFG funding instruments could help to address them. Efficient utilisation of resources, waste avoidance and strengthening the circular economy require particular attention to management, digital and legal skills.

New ways to measure transformative progress

The "TIME" project develops a methodology for measuring transformative effects in evaluation and monitoring. The aim is to capture innovative actions that bring about change in research, technology, the economy and society. The set of indicators developed will be summarized in a guideline that will be available to ministries, funding agencies and evaluators.

SMEs in Austria: the backbone of the domestic economy

SMEs in Austria are the backbone of the economy: in 2023, they accounted for 99.7% of all enterprises, generated 56% of gross value added and provided 2.5 million jobs. Despite challenges such as declining innovation performance, they are key players in the green transformation and the key to climate neutrality by 2040.

Our areas of expertise

Since the foundation of the Austrian Institute for SME Research, studies and analyses have been carried out in several thematic areas, both on national and international level. Many of these research projects focus on the situation and development of SMEs but also consider the differences and specificities of large enterprises.

Asset 10

Entrepreneurship and Innovation

We study different forms of businesses (e.g. one-person businesses, hybrid entrepreneurs, female entrepreneurship, etc.) as well as their life cycles, business models and innovation activities.
Asset 26

Economic Sectors and Industries

The Austrian Institute for SME Research continuously monitors the economic development for numerous economic sectors and industries and has comprehensive databases at its disposal. In addition, in-depth studies are prepared on specific issues and analyses are offered at the level of sectors, regions and company sizes.
Asset 7

Evaluation and Impact Analyses

The Austrian Institute for SME Research conducts evaluations and impact analyses of measures, programmes and institutions in various policy areas at international, national and regional level.
Asset 11

Regional Analyses

We analyse economic structures, trends and location conditions of regions, and cities and countries in Europe. We also derive development perspectives and options for action as well as offer support in the design of policy measures.

Labour Market and Skills

SMEs are of central importance for the labour market. They provide the majority of jobs in Austria and Europe. From the companies' point of view, employees are probably the most important factor for competitiveness.
Asset 2

Balance Sheet Ratios and Benchmarking

The Austrian Institute for SME Research analyses the economic situation and development of all industries and sectors of the Austrian economy on the basis of comprehensive annual financial statement data.

SOME FIGURES ABOUT US

since

1954
in economic research

about

30
employees

over

80
reports and publications per year

about

80
projects per year
Member of

  • KMU Forschung Austria
    Austrian Institute for SME Research

    Gußhausstraße 8,
    A-1040 Wien, Austria

    Tel: ++43-1 505 97 61
    Fax: ++43-1 503 46 60 
    office@kmuforschung.ac.at

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