Our Mission

Public Value and Societal Impact
The Institute’s mission is to contribute to the public good. Through scientifically robust analysis, it supports evidence-informed policymaking in economic, innovation, labour market, and social domains. The support of students and early-career researchers is an integral component of this mission, strengthening long-term scientific excellence, institutional sustainability, and societal impact.

Scientific Excellence and Independence
The Austrian Institute for SME Research is committed to the highest standards of scientific integrity. Its work is grounded in objectivity, methodological pluralism, and rigorous adherence to established scientific standards. Institutional independence from vested interests is a fundamental precondition for credible and impartial research.

Interdisciplinarity and International Engagement
Interdisciplinary collaboration, active knowledge exchange within the Institute, and close cooperation with national and international research partners and universities are core quality drivers. Engagement in leading research networks ensures that the Institute’s work is consistently aligned with the international state of the art.

Practice Orientation and Policy Relevance
The Institute’s research is firmly practice-oriented and based on robust, carefully conducted analyses. Results are communicated in a clear and user-focused manner. Policy recommendations are evidence-based, targeted, and operationally relevant.

Responsibility, Equal Opportunities, and Human Capital Development
The Institute relies on a highly qualified team and fosters a culture of openness, equal opportunity, and individual responsibility. Continuous professional development is a strategic priority. Institutional mechanisms, including the Works Council and the Equal Opportunity Officer, ensure that staff interests and equality principles are firmly embedded in human resource policies.