Top Stories from Western Switzerland (November 2024)

From award-winning campaigns and AI-driven breast cancer diagnostics to cutting-edge ultrasound technology and Switzerland’s rise in digital competitiveness, discover Western Switzerland’s top stories from November 2024.

Jimmy Jackson campaign wins 2024 Réseau Place Économique Suisse award

The GGBa’s Jimmy Jackson campaign won the 2024 Réseau Place Économique Suisse award for innovative communication. Using humor and storytelling, the campaign showcased Western Switzerland as a business hub. The campaign highlighted Switzerland’s strengths, engaging global investors and setting a benchmark for creativity in economic promotion. Other awardees included Neuchâtel’s Industrial Smart Map and Baden’s BAUZONE 5400 project.

RealWear acquires Bernese AR pioneer Almer Technologies in industry-defining move

RealWear acquired Bern-based Almer Technologies, combining RealWear’s rugged industrial AR solutions with Almer’s AI-powered lightweight headsets. Backed by TeamViewer, the acquisition aims to revolutionize AR for frontline workers. Almer’s co-founders join RealWear’s executive team, ensuring innovation continues, while TeamViewer’s enterprise software strengthens the partnership for seamless AR integration across industries.

Contrinex, Xemperia and ROMAG aquacare win the IFF 2024-2025 innovation awards

The IFF Awards celebrated Fribourg’s top innovators: Contrinex won the Enterprise Award for its 3D Smart Camera, Xemperia secured the Start-up Award for a non-invasive breast cancer blood test, and ROMAG aquacare earned the Sustainability Award for its self-powered water quality monitoring system.

CynLr opens new design and research center in Prilly and raises CHF 10 million

Indian robotics start-up CynLr opened its first international design and research center in Prilly, focusing on visual intelligence and robotics. The center will expand partnerships with Swiss institutions like EPFL and CSEM. Supported by CHF 10 million in funding, CynLr aims to revolutionize automation with adaptive robotic systems for diverse industries, from automotive to logistics.

Neuchâtel’s Industrial Smart Map, an award-winning AI-powered tool for economic promotion

Neuchâtel’s Industrial Smart Map, an AI-driven platform showcasing the canton’s industrial ecosystem, won a 2024 Réseau Place Économique Suisse award. The tool organizes companies into clusters like Microtechnology and Watchmaking, attracting investment and fostering collaboration. Its continuous updates and actionable insights solidify Neuchâtel’s position as an innovation leader in economic promotion.

Bracco boosts ultrasound imaging capabilities with new Geneva facility

Bracco invested EUR 80 million in its new Geneva facility, tripling production of its microbubble-based ultrasound contrast agents. The cutting-edge building enhances diagnostic imaging and precision medicine while prioritizing sustainability. Employing over 100 specialists, the facility cements Bracco’s leadership in CEUS technology, offering non-invasive solutions for heart, vessel, and tissue diagnostics.

Lonza expands bioconjugation capacity in Visp and creates 300 jobs

Lonza is expanding its bioconjugation capabilities in Visp with two projects: a new suite for antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and two multipurpose suites. These investments will double production capacity, creating 300 jobs and supporting cutting-edge cancer therapies. The facilities incorporate energy-efficient designs, ensuring both scalability and sustainability in meeting global healthcare demands.

Switzerland rises to second place in IMD’s 2024 Digital Competitiveness Ranking

Switzerland achieved second place in the 2024 IMD World Digital Competitiveness Ranking, excelling in knowledge transfer, high-tech exports, and cybersecurity. Despite strong talent development and regulatory frameworks, the report highlights the need for improved venture capital availability. Switzerland’s rise reflects its commitment to fostering digital innovation and maintaining global leadership in the digital economy.