Deep Tech Investment World Leadership Attributed to Switzerland, According to New Report
In the heart of Europe, Switzerland stands out as a global powerhouse in deep technology, with its focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Autonomous Robotics, Life Sciences and Biotech, and Financial Services Technology. This competitive edge is largely due to the country's strong academic foundations, particularly from leading institutions like ETH Zurich and EPFL, two of Europe's top universities for deep tech spin-offs.
Switzerland's deep tech sector has seen significant growth in recent years, with more than $100 billion in combined enterprise value generated by its startups. From 2019 to 2025, an impressive 60% of the country's total venture capital investment went into deep tech, making Switzerland the global leader in this regard. The country also ranks first in Europe and third worldwide for deep tech VC funding per capita, attracting major capital inflows from the US and EU.
The Swiss deep tech ecosystem is home to over 1,500 startups, each powered by the strong research coming from ETH Zurich, EPFL, and other institutions. These emerging companies are active in AI-driven automation, autonomous systems, biotech solutions, and fintech innovations.
One of the key highlights of 2024 was the increased investment in AI-first startups, which saw a tripling of the share compared to 2020. Robotics, climate tech, and biotech also continued to grow, with significant funding rounds from companies like Neustark, Neo Medical, and Transmutex. The sector is projected to hit $2.3bn in funding in 2025.
However, the Swiss deep tech sector faces a challenge: nearly 96% of late-stage investment comes from global, not local, funds. Alex Stoeckl, founding partner at VC firm Founderful, believes that the next decade belongs to scientists and engineers who turn research into global companies.
The Swiss Deep Tech Report 2025, produced by the Deep Tech Nation Switzerland Foundation, in collaboration with startup data platforms Dealroom.co and Startupticker, provides an insightful look into this thriving sector. The report was backed by telecom firm Swisscom and banking giant UBS.
Switzerland's success in deep tech is a testament to its unique blend of academic excellence, venture capital support, and international investor confidence. For over a decade, Switzerland has topped the Global Innovation Index, solidifying its position as a leader in innovation and technology. As the sector continues to grow, it's clear that Switzerland's next chapter in deep tech innovation is just beginning.
Investors are increasingly pouring funds into AI-first and fintech startups in Switzerland, contributing to the country's growth as a global leader in Financial Services Technology within the deep tech sector. The Swiss deep tech ecosystem is also associated with business ventures focused on AI-driven automation, autonomous systems, biotech solutions, and technological innovations.
