Overview of Economic Clusters 244 Startup Support

Startup Support / Ideentriebwerk

Startup Support / Ideentriebwerk

[Summary] “We are the largest not-for-profit startup association in Graz. Our mission is to connect startups and startup enthusiasts through our unique events, workshops and annual Startup Playground. We’re the first port of call for anyone interested in the Graz startup scene.”

Originally founded in 2012 by four students, the Ideentriebwerk has grown to become the largest not-for-profit startup association in Graz. Through a unique blend of events, community get-togethers and its annual showcase Startup Playground event, it is a one-stop shop for anyone who is interested in the startup scene or who has already started their own company. Over the past eight years, the Ideentriebwerk has built a thriving community and ecosystem which attracts attendees and industry experts from all backgrounds and sectors. It offers a range of services to startups including in person and online events, networking opportunities, knowledge sharing through their blog and recent podcast, and pitching training. It periodically holds a Startup Spritzer, an event that facilitates networking between individuals, organizations and experts in the startup scene. As part of the event, there is a presentation of a startup success story and the opportunity to pitch an idea and receive feedback from the audience and the industry experts.

Ideentriebwerk also offers a range of one-off workshops with topics ranging from marketing and communications through to visual design or crowdfunding. Its flagship event, the Startup Playground, takes place every year and is a three day extravaganza where startups or those with an interest in the startup scene can apply to attend. Attendees hone their ideas and upskill through a series of workshops, team building and mentoring sessions. Those who do not have a startup idea can just attend the event and offer advice and suggestions to the other participants. The event culminates in a competition where attendees get to pitch their ideas to a panel of experts for a chance to win a range of prizes.

Filled with case studies, expert advice, insights, interviews, local tips and useful addresses, Startup Guide Graz is essential reading for anyone interested in starting up a business, whether they’re new to the city, new to the startup scene or a seasoned businessperson starting again.

Graz, a university city, research stronghold and UNESCO City of Design, is located in the heart of Europe and has a colorful creative scene working alongside technological world market leaders. The thriving startup ecosystem is the perfect location to grow innovative ideas and bring business models to life.

Every Startup Has a Story

Startup Guide books are made to inspire and guide anyone interested in starting up in a particular city or region around the world. Established business owners are all too familiar with the struggles and victories of starting up, and their shared experiences can help other entrepreneurs to develop and grow their own businesses.

20 EUR / 20 USD / 15 GBP

ISBN 978-989-54894-5-9