MCI Number 1 Start-up Institution in Austria

Austria’s leading university for start-up foundings per 1,000 students | International study highlights the potential of Austria’s science and business sectors

According to a recent study by the Technical University of Munich (TUM), the Entrepreneurial School® in Innsbruck is the strongest university in Austria in terms of start-up activity, measured by the number of start-up foundations per 1,000 students. MCI is also the only Austrian university to make it into the top 20 universities in the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland).

This was confirmed by the newly published study “Entrepreneurial Impact of Academic Institutions” by TUM. The study analyzes the role, activities, and outcomes of universities in the fields of entrepreneurship and start-up formation.

First published in 2023, the study was expanded in 2025 to cover the entire DACH region. It is based on the analysis of over 50,000 start-ups founded between 2014 and 2024, drawing from national statistical offices, social media data, university websites, and existing regional studies (Startup Detector, Austrian Startup Monitor, Startupticker.ch, Startup.ch, Dealroom, PitchBook, etc.).

Statements:

Eva-Maria Holzleitner, Federal Minister for Women, Science and Research: "MCI’s success highlights the important role universities play in our society—not just as centers for learning and research, but as key players in shaping progress, driving innovation, and creating jobs. When quality teaching inspires great ideas, and those ideas turn into thriving businesses, it’s a win for everyone. It boosts local economies, generates new employment opportunities, and helps build a stronger, more connected society."

Martin Pillei, Head of Research & Development at MCI: “These excellent results highlight our strategic focus on entrepreneurial thinking and action across research, teaching, and knowledge transfer. For our students, this creates an inspiring environment where entrepreneurial ideas are actively supported and brought to life. For companies, it offers an opportunity to connect with innovation-driven talent and practice-oriented start-up projects. The ranking shows: at MCI, entrepreneurship is not just taught—it’s lived.”

Marcus Hofer, Managing Director of Standortagentur Tirol and Startup.Tirol: “I warmly congratulate MCI on this success. The high number of start-ups emerging from MCI is a strong sign of lived entrepreneurial spirit and the dynamic start-up culture that defines Tyrol as an innovation hub. It creates value, jobs, and international visibility, and is a vital driver for sustainable economic development in the region.”

Oswald Wolkenstein, Chair of the MCI Supervisory Board: “It is remarkable what MCI accomplishes on a daily basis, even in the face of significant infrastructural constraints. One can only hope that policymakers will soon recognize the immense potential a new campus holds—not only for Tyrol’s economic growth and regional appeal but also for securing long-term prosperity for future generations.”

Andreas Altmann, MCI Rector: “These results once again confirm the path our university has taken and the outstanding achievements of our highly dedicated team. Start-up formations create innovative jobs, strengthen competitiveness, and enhance the attractiveness of our region.”