Switzerland continues to set the pace in science, innovation and entrepreneurship. These ten startups exemplify the country’s growing role as a global tech incubator
Switzerland has long held a reputation as a hub for innovation, academic excellence and cutting‑edge technology. With its world‑class universities, stable political and economic environment, and access to top‑tier investment, the country offers fertile ground for new ventures in artificial intelligence, life sciences, robotics and quantum computing.
In recent years, the Swiss startup ecosystem has expanded significantly, with promising companies emerging in areas such as clean‑tech, space technology and next‑generation computing. Cities like Zurich, Lausanne and Basel have become magnets for ambitious entrepreneurs, researchers and investors looking to scale bold ideas and build globally relevant solutions.
Below are ten startups shaping Switzerland’s technological future in 2025.
AXMED (BASEL)
Axmed focuses on improving access to essential medicines, particularly in low‑ and middle‑income countries. Its platform connects healthcare providers with prequalified manufacturers, ensuring the availability of affordable, high‑quality treatments.
Through its global advisory services, the company also supports pharmaceutical firms in developing inclusive market strategies. Founded in 2023, Axmed has secured €6.7 million in funding to expand its global presence.
CELLX BIOSOLUTIONS (ZURICH)
CellX offers sustainable biodegradation technologies for the treatment of chemical waste. Using naturally occurring bacteria, the company’s systems break down pollutants such as PFAS, pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. CellX also provides biodegradability testing and customised treatment solutions to help industries meet environmental standards. Established in 2024, the startup has raised €2 million.
DPHI SPACE (LAUSANNE)
DPhi Space provides a hosted payload platform that simplifies the deployment of space payloads. Its modular service allows companies to access power, computing and communications for missions without the complexity of CubeSat development. By lowering the entry barrier, DPhi supports broader participation in space research. Founded in 2024, the company has raised €2.4 million to develop its platform.
LIGHTIUM (ZURICH)
Lightium develops photonic integrated circuits using its proprietary Thin‑Film Lithium Niobate (TFLN) platform. These components support applications in telecoms, quantum computing and AI. The startup’s 200mm wafer manufacturing enables fast prototyping and scalable production. Founded in 2023, Lightium has secured €9.6 million to advance its photonic technology.
MIMIC (ZURICH)
Mimic creates AI‑powered robots that learn from human motion to perform complex tasks. Designed for human‑centric workplaces, the robots are capable of tool handling and task generalisation with minimal calibration.
By leveraging large‑scale video data, Mimic makes robotic automation more accessible across industries. Established in 2024, the startup has raised €2.7 million.
NEXTESY (ZURICH)
Nextesy builds AI‑driven software to automate business processes including invoicing, payroll and accounting. Its all‑in‑one platform integrates document management and financial analytics, helping SMEs streamline operations. Founded in 2023, the company has secured €3.5 million to expand its enterprise automation tools.
PREM LABS (LUGANO)
Prem offers a platform for building and deploying custom AI agents without requiring deep technical knowledge. Its technology supports specialised reasoning models and small language models, with options for self‑hosted deployment. Aimed at enterprises seeking greater control over AI workflows, Prem has raised €13 million since its founding in 2023.
RHYGAZE (BASEL)
A spin‑out from the Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel, RhyGaze is developing gene therapy treatments for retinal diseases. Its optogenetic approach introduces new light‑sensitive genes into non‑functional cone cells, offering hope for vision restoration. With €92.5 million in funding secured in 2024, the company is advancing towards clinical application.
RIVR (ZURICH)
Formerly Swiss‑Mile, RIVR is developing wheeled‑legged delivery robots powered by physical AI. These systems are designed for efficient last‑mile logistics in urban settings, combining mobility with autonomous learning. With over €24 million in backing, including from Bezos Expeditions, RIVR is currently trialling its robots with global logistics providers.
ZURIQ (ZURICH)
ZuriQ is building a scalable quantum computer based on trapped‑ion qubits arranged in a three‑dimensional structure. Its system supports parallel operations and industrial‑grade chip fabrication, aiming to accelerate breakthroughs in chemistry, logistics and pharmaceuticals. Founded in 2024, ZuriQ has raised €4 million to develop its hardware platform.
From biotech and robotics to AI and quantum computing, these ten startups highlight the breadth and ambition of Switzerland’s innovation ecosystem. With strong institutional support and a global outlook, they are poised to shape the next chapter of European and global tech leadership.