AIT at the Austrian Innovation Forum 2026: Research for New Paths to Innovation
How do key technologies turn into concrete innovations? Under the motto “Beyond Optimization,” the 16th Austrian Innovation Forum will bring together innovation leaders, companies, and researchers on October 6 and 7, 2026, at the Erste Campus in Vienna. The focus will be on new paths to growth, technological opportunities, and the implementation of innovative ideas. The AIT Austrian Institute of Technology will be represented with presentations in the program and its own exhibition booth.
Brigitte Bach: Key Technologies for Austria and Europe
On October 6 at 11:55 a.m., Brigitte Bach, Managing Director and Spokesperson for the AIT Executive Board, will deliver an opening address for the RealTalk session “Key Technologies in and for Austria and Europe | Beyond Optimization.” Together with Herbert Lohninger of the ACP Group and Claus Zeppelzauer of ecoplus, she will discuss which technological competencies Austria should specifically strengthen and where strategic priorities are needed. Tarek Leitner will moderate the session.
Karl Kugler: Perspectives on Innovation and AI
On October 7 at 2:30 p.m., Karl Kugler, Head of AI Factory Austria (AI), will participate in the concluding RealTalk “Beyond Optimization.” Together with Daniel Zawarczynski of WKÖ AUSSENWIRTSCHAFT AUSTRIA, he will take stock and discuss key insights from the forum. The discussion will be moderated by Tina Viatte.
AIT at the Booth: Quantum Encryption and Artificial Intelligence
The AIT booth will highlight different research focuses on each of the two days of the event:
- October 6: Quantum Encryption with QKD – Insights into quantum key distribution and its significance for secure communication.
- October 7: AI Task Force – Discussion on the potential of artificial intelligence and possible applications in business.
Visit us at the AIT booth and speak with our experts about your questions and opportunities for collaboration.
Date: October 6–7, 2026
Location: Erste Campus, Vienna