The canton of Fribourg has everything new companies need to get off the ground and established companies to grow: competitive tax rates, a highly educated and well-qualified workforce, bilingualism and an abundance of land ripe for development.

THE PLACE TO GROW

Fribourg has four USP (unique selling propositions) that set it apart from the competition:

• Bioeconomy
• Industry 4.0
• The youngest population in Switzerland
• An active land policy

Fribourg has adopted a development strategy that capitalizes on the dynamism and diversity of the local economic ecosystem, and prioritizes the bioeconomy and Industry 4.0.

Bioeconomy covers all primary sector activities associated with the production, processing and valorization of biological resources, as well as the production of molecules, energy and innovative materials for the building industry. It involves a wide range of fields, including those in which Fribourg excels, namely agrifood, construction and biotechnologies.

Industry 4.0 refers to the digitalization of processes, trade, communication and productions, and is powered by advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things and robotics.

With sustained demographic growth and the youngest population in Switzerland, the canton of Fribourg is well-equipped to meet digital transformation challenges head on.

Fribourg has another powerful tool at its disposal: the cantonal land development agency (ECPF). In simple terms, it is a real estate broker for primary sector clients, with the mission of ensuring that the canton is able to offer a more or less steady supply of industrial land.

Among the canton’s many other advantages are its dynamic and dense network of higher education institutions, a strong innovation culture, unwavering and dedicated support for businesses, and exceptional quality of life (see below).