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Top Stories from Western Switzerland (September 2024)

Business environment

30 September 2024

Top Stories Western Switzerland

From breakthroughs in surgical robotics and AI-powered spine surgery to Switzerland’s continued global innovation leadership, discover Western Switzerland’s top stories from September 2024.

Switzerland continues to lead global innovation for the 14th consecutive year

Switzerland remains the world’s top innovator for the 14th year in a row, according to the World Intellectual Property Organization’s Global Innovation Index 2024 and other reports. The country excels in high-tech manufacturing, biotechnology, and university-industry collaboration. Despite room for improvement in ICT and energy technologies, Switzerland’s robust research environment and institutional support maintain its leadership in global innovation.

LEM Surgical unveils new headquarters in Bern to advance surgical robotics

LEM Surgical has opened a 19,400-square-foot state-of-the-art headquarters in Bern focused on advancing surgical robotics. The facility integrates research and development with precision manufacturing to support the company’s Sapien robotic system for spine surgery. The new headquarters is designed to accelerate innovation in surgical robotics and improve product quality, positioning LEM Surgical as a leader in the field.

University of Fribourg launches new start-up grant for its spin-offs

The University of Fribourg has launched a new start-up grant to support its spin-offs, providing up to CHF 150,000 per year. The grant will help protect early-stage intellectual property and advance project development, thereby improving market readiness and the ability to secure venture capital. The initiative is part of the university’s commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship through its Knowledge and Technology Transfer Service.

Alohi wins the 2024 Innovation Award at the Grands Prix de l’Économie

Geneva-based Alohi, known for its digital workflow solutions such as Sign.Plus, Fax.Plus and Scan.Plus, has won the 2024 Innovation Award at the Grands Prix de l’Économie. The award recognizes Alohi’s contributions to the Geneva economy and its technological advancements. With more than 3.9 million users worldwide, Alohi enhances productivity and security in business processes while contributing to job creation and economic growth.

CSEM celebrates 40 years of innovation and industry collaboration in Neuchâtel

The Swiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology (CSEM) is celebrating its 40th anniversary, highlighting its key role in driving innovation in microtechnology, nanotechnology and digitalization. CSEM has been instrumental in bridging the gap between academic research and industrial applications, particularly in fields such as renewable energy and precision manufacturing. The anniversary event in Bern (CSEM Business Day 2024) will showcase its achievements and future innovations.

Neo Medical secures USD 68 million to expand its AI-powered spine surgery platform

Lausanne-based Neo Medical has raised USD 68 million in Series B funding to expand its AI-powered spine surgery platform globally, with a focus on the U.S. market. Neo Medical’s technology integrates artificial intelligence and augmented reality to improve surgical precision and reduce complications. The funds will also support product development and commercialization in the thoracolumbar fusion market.

DePoly tops 2024 Swiss Startup Awards with its innovative plastic recycling technology

Valais-based DePoly, an EPFL spin-off specializing in advanced plastic recycling technology, won first place at the 2024 TOP 100 Swiss Startup Awards. The company’s patented process converts plastic waste into raw materials, promoting sustainability. Other winners include Corintis (liquid cooling systems for semiconductors) and Yokoy (AI-powered expense management). The awards recognize the innovation and impact of Swiss start-ups across multiple industries.