Facts & Figures about startups in Austria

More than 3,700 startups have been founded in Austria since 2013 and the average number of employee is 9.5. In total, the Austrian startup-sector employs around 30,000 employees.

• Average age: 38.5 years                                               
• University degree: 78 %                                      
• Share of team formations: 74 %
• Share of female founders: 22 %
• Share of founders with migration background: 19% 

Deep Tech-Startups

17 % of startups are classified as deep-tech startups. These companies develop technological solutions grounded in fundamental scientific research or significant technological advancements, undertaking sustained in-house research and development efforts.

Profitability

38% of startups are already profitable.

Success through Globalization

74 % of startups have already tapped into international markets and 18% are planning to expand abroad for the first time in the near future.

Success through impact

56% of startups pursue overarching business goals in the areas of environmenta sustainability and/or social impact. Among deep-tech startups, this commitment is even stronger – 70% are classified as green and/or social startups.

Most common sources of financing

• 68.3 % savings 
• 49.1 % national subsidies 
• 28.9 % cashflow
• 26.2 % Business Angel 

Innovation Trends

• 71.2 % Artificial Intelligence
• 31.9 % Renewable Energy
• 29.4 % Energy Storage 
• 28.6 % Cyber Security 
• 27.6 % Big Data 
• 25.8 % Automation 

(Source: Austrian Startup Monitor 2024)

Services for Startups

The Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKO) supports startups through  range of services, including weekly Open Office Hours, the Startup Landscape Austria data platform, LOOKAUT short video series, and online courses via
wîse up. The înno up program promotes collaboration between startups an established companies. The Born Global Academy supports scaleups in their journey toward international markets.