More and more Styrians are taking the step into self-employment. For 30 years they have been actively supported by the Styrian economic development agency, as managing director Christoph Ludwig explains in an interview.
Mr. Ludwig, what is the balance after 30 years of Styrian economic development? With the establishment of this development company in April 1991, multiple responsibilities between the departments could be reduced and regional structures that optimally meet the needs of customers were established. It is still our mission to implement the economic strategy of the state government, that is, of state councilor Barbara Eibinger-Miedl. Despite the exceptional situation, the balance sheet is impressive. What have been the biggest milestones for you since your takeover in 2019? My biggest challenge – you can also call it a milestone – is coping with the pandemic situation that affects all of us Areas calls. During this time, together with the economic department, projects such as Data House, Unicorn and Startupmark as well as the relocation of large companies were implemented. You support entrepreneurial activities and say that personal discussions are important to you. What advice is given to entrepreneurs in times of great uncertainty? Change is the only constant in economic life, but change also takes courage and energy. Only with combined strength will it be possible to secure impulses for our business location. Businesspeople are the engine for growth and work. You not only create innovative products, but also new business models. It is our job to support them. In the current situation, there is no alternative to quick-acting aid? Although Styria was massively affected by the Corona crisis with an estimated decline in real gross value added of around -6.8 percent, there is also to report positive developments. Nevertheless, rapid support for current hardship cases will be necessary. Can you take a look into the future for us: Which industries will dominate? It’s an open secret when I mention digitization and sustainability here. The state’s new innovation award has precisely defined these areas of strength for the future. All industries that are strong in these areas will be in demand.
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