Andreas Krimbacher (Technical Lead, nexyo), Michael Wiesmüller (Head of Department: Digital and Key Technologies for Industrial Innovation, BMIMI), Michael Fälbl (Platform Industry 4.0). Credit: Valerie Maltseva/Agenda Studio
Vienna, September 2025 – Europe's digital future is a key issue in politics, business, and society. As part of Technology Talks Austria 2025 (#TEC25), this question was examined from various perspectives in a special event entitled “Towards Sovereign Business Success.” The workshop was organized by Gaia-X Hub Austria and the Industry 4.0 platform, with the participation of the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology, and brought together leading voices from startups, industry, research, and politics.
Michael Fälbl from the Industry 4.0 platform focused on the question: How can Europe achieve digital sovereignty while successfully bringing innovative business models to market?
Spin-offs and start-ups as drivers
Particular attention was paid to the role of spin-offs, start-ups, and scale-ups. They are considered to be the driving force behind Europe's digital competitiveness—provided that innovative technologies can be reconciled with marketable products and European values.
“We need the geeks who build technology and want to be global leaders in niche areas,” demanded Stefan Plank (Co-Founder & COO, TACEO). In doing so, he summed up the need for technological pioneering spirit.
Hannah Wundsam (Managing Director, AustrianStartups), on the other hand, warned that startups in Europe need better access to capital: “More European venture capital is crucial to give young companies long-term prospects and not force them into dependence on international sources of financing.”
Read the full german article here.