Startup Project – Regione Puglia
Puglian startups conquering the Swiss market
This project was created to showcase Puglian innovation and accompany local startups toward new opportunities in Switzerland, thanks to the Puglia FESR – FSE+ 2021/2027 program. An initiative that brings together institutions, companies, and investors to:
- Promote the technological and innovative excellence of the Puglia Region
- Facilitate startup access to international events and trade fairs
- Create direct connections with the Swiss market and its key players
Presentation of the Swiss tech ecosystem in Puglia
In October 2025, Bari will host a dedicated day for Puglian tech startups interested in learning how to leverage the Swiss tech ecosystem to scale internationally.
The chosen format is a founder circle, where a young Puglian founder based in Zurich—who successfully scaled into an international agritech venture through Switzerland—will challenge the business models of local startups and provide practical advice.
Swiss Italian Startup Award – Geneva
Five Puglian startups will participate in the startup competition organized by the Italian Chamber of Commerce for Switzerland in collaboration with FONGIT: the Swiss Italian Startup Award, 18 November 2025.
Launched in 2024 to introduce a selection of Italian tech startups into the Swiss market, the event already includes one of the five Puglian startups among the finalists.
Highlights of CCIS activities in support of the startups:
- Pitch preparation sessions
- Networking meetings with corporations and investors
- Dedicated booth for the Puglian delegation
- Visibility on stage at a major international event
Italian Tech Forum – Zurich, 4 February 2026
The Puglia Region will also take center stage at another flagship event of the Italian Chamber of Commerce for Switzerland, held in Zurich—the country’s main financial hub, where around 40% of national VC investments are concentrated. Puglia’s presence will feature:
- 5 innovative startups showcased at the Forum
- A pitch session for one selected startup
- Exchanges with experts and investors
- A panel dedicated to Puglia’s technology development strategy
- A booth for exhibition and networking
Why Switzerland
Switzerland is one of Europe’s most dynamic hubs for technology, innovation, and venture capital. Giving Puglian startups access to this ecosystem means:
01.Connecting with potential partners and investors
02.Experiencing a competitive and international environment
03.Leveraging relationships built in this market to strengthen Puglia’s presence globally
Institutional Partners
The project is promoted by: Regione Puglia and Regional Agency for Technology and Innovation (ARTI) in collaboration with the Italian Chamber of Commerce for Switzerland.
