In a video talk with brutkasten, Patrik Cesky (aws Gründungsfonds), Lisa Smith (Prewave), and Ingo Bleier (Erste Group) discuss why early-stage funding is the key to successfully transforming research into market-ready products — and how startups and investors contribute to strengthening Austria as a hub for innovation.
aws Gründungsfonds as an active growth partner
aws Gründungsfonds invests precisely when private investors are still hesitant. With our network and long-term support, including participation in later follow-on rounds, we open up new opportunities for growth-oriented founders.
Prewave – from TU spinoff to global scaleup
With AI-powered risk management in supply chains, Prewave has successfully turned research into a scalable product. The discussion highlights the crucial role early-stage funding plays on the path from startup to internationally successful scaleup — and what founders should pay attention to along the way.
Erste Bank's investment initiatives
Erste Bank actively engages in venture capital initiatives to drive innovation while leveraging attractive return opportunities. In addition, selected direct investments — for example in FinTech or DeepTech solutions — strategically strengthen the bank’s core business.
Conclusion – Early-stage funding is more than just risk capital. It’s the lever that makes research economically viable and brings “innovation made in Austria” to the global stage.