Powerful Conversations, Real Stories, Real Impact
Live from the CUPRA City Garage Vienna, the BTM-Podcast brought together entrepreneurs and leaders for an evening of honest dialogue addressing the realities behind entrepreneurship that are rarely spoken about.
Proud to see IFAVH supporting platforms that create space for transparency, learning, and meaningful connection. Looking forward to the episode and the conversations it will continue to spark.
We’re proud to share that Philipp Peischl, CEO of IFAVH, took part in key engagements held in Abu Dhabi during the visit of Austrian State Secretary Alexander P. This high-level exchange brought together influential leaders committed to strengthening innovation pathways between Austria and the UAE.
The discussions focused on deepening cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and emerging technologies, alongside major Emirati institutions such as ADNOC Group, MBZUAI (Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence), and ADGM. Each conversation highlighted the strategic potential of aligning Austria’s innovation strengths with the UAE’s rapid technological growth and forward-looking ecosystem.
Beyond the formal meetings, this visit served as a platform to explore practical opportunities for startups, research institutions, and innovators from both regions. Austria’s highly skilled talent pool and strong academic foundations, paired with Abu Dhabi’s global positioning, investment opportunities, and future-driven policies, create powerful pathways for collaboration and growth.
For IFAVH, this synergy perfectly aligns with our mission: accelerating innovation, empowering entrepreneurship, and building bridges between global business ecosystems. The momentum generated during this visit signals a promising future where Austria and the UAE work hand-in-hand to drive impactful innovation across borders.
As these relationships continue to strengthen, IFAVH remains committed to fostering international partnerships that unlock new opportunities for founders, investors, and industry leaders worldwide. The journey ahead is bright and we are excited to help shape it.
Image Rights: (c) BKA, Alexander Zillbauer
Austrian Venture Week 2025 – What a Journey!
This year’s edition brought together innovators, founders, investors, and partners for an unforgettable week of collaboration across the UAE. From meaningful discussions to cultural explorations, the entire experience showcased the incredible potential of connecting Austria’s entrepreneurial spirit with the UAE’s fast-growing innovation landscape.
With 1,000+ registrations, 13 unique event formats, and 3 Emirates explored, the week was nothing short of remarkable. Each day introduced new opportunities new partnerships, new ideas, and new pathways bridging Europe and the UAE. These numbers reflect not just participation but the growing momentum behind cross-border innovation.
Our journey took us from Ras Al Khaimah’s Marjan Island & Wynn Resort, to the visionary experiences at The Heart of Europe, and finally to the dynamic energy of DMCC Dubai. At every stop, founders and ecosystem leaders exchanged insights, shared experiences, and unlocked fresh perspectives on the future of entrepreneurship.
What truly made Austrian Venture Week special was the people the attendees who traveled, contributed, and passionately engaged throughout the experience. Your conversations, ideas, and collaborations shaped this week into something far beyond an event. It became a movement of shared ambition and global connection.
To everyone who joined us, shared their expertise, and helped turn Austrian Venture Week 2025 into an extraordinary milestone: Thank you. Together, we have built bridges that will continue to strengthen innovation between Austria and the UAE for years to come.
October 14th marked a major milestone for IFAVH as we proudly celebrated the Soft Opening of IFAVHUB a moment that brought together global innovators, founders, and ecosystem partners during both the Austrian Venture Week Delegation and Shark Island Venture Week in the UAE.
This soft launch wasn’t just the unveiling of a new space; it signaled the start of a new era for our mission. IFAVHUB is designed to be a central platform where entrepreneurs, startups, and innovators can collaborate, learn, and scale bridging ideas across borders and unlocking new opportunities for growth. With innovation accelerating across the region, the hub stands as a testament to our commitment to building a community driven by creativity, ambition, and global connection.
The event was made even more special with the presence of distinguished guests and supporters who have played key roles in strengthening the ties between Austria and the UAE:
Their attendance highlighted the importance of international collaboration and the collective effort to strengthen innovation ecosystems. The conversations during the event were filled with energy reflecting a shared belief in what IFAVHUB can become: A thriving hub where ideas are nurtured, partnerships grow, and visions transform into reality.
As we step into this new chapter, we look forward to supporting founders, connecting global communities, and building a future where innovation moves freely across borders.
The journey has just begun and we’re excited for what lies ahead.
