switzerland's sme policy
TRANSCRIPT
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Switzerland’s SME policy
contEnt
Editorial ....................................................................................................................3
Switzerland’s SME policy: the Key features .......................................................................................................4
Administration: fewer forms, greater efficiency .................................................................................6
E-Government: online services for SMEs ..........................................................................................8
Financing: government help in accessing start-up capital ......................................................10
SERV: security and liquidity for exporters .........................................................................12
Switzerland Global Enterprise: opening new doors .................................................................................................14
Education and training: an opportunity for SMEs and a worthwhile investment for all................................16
Research and innovation: harnessing the expertise of public research institutions .......................................18
The CTI: helping you to turn your ideas into innovative products .......................................20
Combining work and family life: it can be done and it’s worthwhile! ........................................................................22
Addresses ...............................................................................................................24
Publisher: Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research EAER, Federal Palace East Wing, 3003 Bern T +41 31 322 20 07, F +41 31 322 21 94 www.wbf.admin.ch, [email protected] Concept and copy: Zoebeli Communications AG, Bern Photo-reportage: Croci & du Fresne Photography, Worblaufen This brochure is available in German (Article no. 710.089.D), French (Article no. 710.089.F), Italian (Article no. 710.089.I) and English (Article no. 710.089.E). Ordering: www.bundespublikationen.admin.ch
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Editorial
Dear Readers,
This brochure gives a say to a number of small businesses – for example a young entrepreneur in the field of solar installations, a family business specialising in sparkling wine and a successful company with many years of experience in producing cylindrical grinding machines. Businesses such as these, with less than 250 employees, rarely make the headlines, unjustly, in my view. Switzerland’s economy thrives on its many flexible and innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). They account for the vast majority of businesses in Switzerland, provide two-thirds of all jobs and are an important basis for our stable and productive economy.
The Federal Council takes the concerns of SMEs seriously. With a policy tailored to their specific needs, we are working hard to optimise their long-term general conditions. For example, the SME web portal established a few years ago, simplifies administrative procedures for entrepreneurs in a number of areas. Other services are designed to help when starting up a business, driving innovation and exporting goods and services.
The bilateral agreements with the EU and the free trade agreements with other trade partners are an important pillar of Swiss foreign economic policy. Switzerland currently has a network of free trade agreements with 65 countries. This facilitates market access for Swiss companies, lowering trade barriers and thus prices for both sides.
As part of its economic growth policy, the Federal Council remains firmly committed to improving Switzerland’s appeal as a location for business and industry. This long-term policy has contributed to the development in Switzerland of internationally competitive industrial and service sectors. I am working hard to ensure that Swiss SMEs can continue to compete successfully in world markets and thereby safeguard jobs in Switzerland.
Another of our country’s strengths is its dual-track system of education, which provides Switzerland with well-trained, multilingual and motivated professionals at all levels. The combination of training in host companies and school-based learning encourages young people to participate in the labour market and pursue education and training. It also increases professional competence in all areas thanks to the numerous opportunities for continuing education and training.
This brochure provides an overview of the key instruments in Switzerland’s SME policy, along with a number of testimonials from entrepreneurs about how the federal government’s instruments helped their company prosper. It is designed to provide you with information and help you tackle the everyday challenges faced by businesses.
Johann N. Schneider-Ammann Federal Councillor Head of the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER)
Bern, October 2013
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SwitzErland’S SME policy: thE KEy FEaturES
From bakeries and fiduciaries to precision parts manufacturers operating on the international market, 99.6 per cent of Swiss companies employ fewer than 250 staff. these small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are a vital element of the Swiss economy.
SMEs account for the vast majority of Swiss firms. They provide two-thirds of all jobs in the country, and as such form the bedrock of our prosperity. These businesses, whether a local stationery store or an engineering firm involved in the export trade, are subject to various laws and regulations. They are generally governed by the same provisions as large corporations, but limited staff resources make it harder for SMEs to implement the provisions. SMEs are also often dependent on external support when setting up business or dealing with international markets, for example.
The federal government is aware of these specific needs and has responded by tailoring its policy on SMEs to ensure that operating conditions are as favourable as possible. The main aims are to:
77 ease the administrative burden 77 develop e-government 77 facilitate business financing 77 improve access to markets 77 encourage education, research and innovation
the emphasis of Switzerland’s economic growth policy
Greater labour productivity is the key to increased prosperity. The federal government therefore wants to use its economic growth policy to increase the economic output of every hour of work performed. To achieve this goal the federal government applies measures in a number of areas:
77 Competition policy to stimulate competition within Switzerland.
77 Foreign economic policy to strive for economic openness and improved access to foreign markets.
77 Labour market policy to maintain a high employment rate.
77 Education policies to strengthen education, research and innovation.
77 Finance policy to ensure sound public finances.
77 Legislation to create a legal environment that is conducive to entrepreneurship.
77 The federal government ensures that environmental impacts are acceptable despite economic growth.
“SMEs are the backbone of our economy. We are seeking to create the best possible general conditions for SMEs with an innovative SME policy.” Marie-Gabrielle Ineichen-Fleisch, State Secretary and Director of SECO
non-agricultural, private businesses by size (2008 census)
Size Private Business
% Employees %
1–2 employees
3–4 employees
5–9 employees
10–19 employees
20–49 employees
50–99 employees
100–249 employees
250+ employees
Micro enterprise (1–9)
Small business (10–49)
Medium business (50–249)
Large business (250+)
total no. of SMEs (1–249)
150,613
57,326
54,824
26,802
14,678
4,626
2,652
1,340
262,763
41,480
7,278
1,340
311,521
48.14
18.32
17.52
8.57
4.69
1.48
0.85
0.43
83.99
13.26
2.33
0.43
99.57
206,054
196,104
355,425
356,057
439,108
317,276
401,566
1,222,481
757,583
795,165
718,842
1,222,481
2,271,590
5.90
5.61
10.17
10.19
12.57
9.08
11.49
34.99
21.68
22.76
20.57
34.99
65.01
Source: SFSO, Swiss Business Census 2008
The lynchpin of Switzerland’s SME policy is the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs SECO, which works with many partners to support SMEs. These include the internationalisation facilitator Switzerland Global Enterprise, the Swiss Export Risk Insurance Agency SERV and Switzerland’s four guarantee cooperatives. The State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation SERI also contributes to creating optimal conditions. Other important partners include the Swiss Federation of Small and Medium Enterprises, Economiesuisse and sectoral trades associations. These efforts are always focussed on Switzerland’s small and medium-sized enterprises.
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adMiniStration: FEwEr ForMS, grEatEr EFFiciEncy
Every new regulation means extra work for SMEs. permits, application forms, certificates – we are doing everything we can to reduce the administrative burden.
Excessive red tape is a drag on the economy. One of the advantages Switzerland enjoys as a business location is that its administration is comparatively streamlined. But of course we cannot rest on our laurels. SMEs in Switzerland would like things to be even simpler, and other countries are continually improving the conditions they offer to firms.
this is what we are doing to reduce paper work:
Measures to reduce the administrative burden SECO works with other federal offices to reduce the administrative burden resulting from regulations. It supports the cantons and facilitates the exchange of information by finding successful ways to avoid higher regulatory costs. It prepares specific administrative relief measures for the Federal Council, such as those found in its report on administrative relief for businesses. The measures aim to reduce the administrative burden in key areas such as VAT, the Swiss Code of Obligations and building regulations, and provide remedies including e-Government.
assessing the impact of regulations and measuring costs Important new regulations are subject to an impact assessment before they are implemented in order to assess their potential impact on the stakeholders concerned, such as SMEs. SECO coordinates this process and is actively involved in some of the assessments. In addition, it has developed a methodology to analyse the regulatory costs for the companies, which is used to estimate the cost of regulations and to identify the potential for cost reduction.
SME Forum The SME Forum is an extra-parliamentary expert commission that acts in the interests of SMEs. If the SME Forum considers that a bill or regulation that has been put out for consultation might place an unnecessary burden on SMEs, it can suggest ways of simplifying matters to the federal offices concerned. In recent years, nearly 70 per cent of its recommendations were implemented. The commission therefore helps to reduce the administrative burden on SMEs.
The SME Forum consists of at least seven representatives from the private sector plus a member of the Conference of Cantonal Directors of Economic Affairs and a representative of the Swiss New Businesses Centres. SECO provides a co-president and acts as the forum’s secretariat.
information:
www.kmu.admin.ch/publikationen (report on administrative relief – available in German, French and Italian)
www.seco.admin.ch/rfa (information about assessing the impact of regulations – webpage available in German and French)
www.forum-kmu.ch (information about the SME Forum – webpage available in German and French)
“Every hour less that a company spends on administrative matters, is an hour gained for value generating activities – and that is the basis for success.” Eric Jakob, member of SECO’s board of directors and Head of the Promotion Activities Directorate, Co-President of the SME Forum
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SabinE baErlochEr, activE rEloca tion Sa, gEnEva, ownEr
“Active Relocation SA was looking for a manager who spoke French, German and English, had international experience and a good sense of humour. I knew this was the perfect job for me. During the interview, it turned out that the company was not only looking for a manager, but also an owner. So, I took the job, and bought Active Relocation SA in 2000. We are currently a team of six employees and a few freelancers.
As a relocation company we provide services to people who move to Switzerland to live and work. We help them find a place to live and a school for their children, and help them integrate. We provide courses for newcomers about Swiss culture. We explain to them, for example, why Swiss people call the police if the neighbours are too noisy after 10pm.
I had always wanted to get involved in politics, but couldn’t really identify with any of the political parties. A friend thought I would be interested in the work of the SME Forum, so I applied there and was elected in 2008. The forum allows me to advocate SME-related issues, which are meaningful to me.
The SME Forum currently consists of 15 representatives from various branches of industry. We generally meet six times a year and discuss various draft acts and ordinances. If a new regulation threatens to increase costs or the administrative burden for SMEs, we come up with proposals to improve them and submit them to the relevant federal offices and parliamentary committees. Through my work in the SME Forum I can make a difference.”
www.active-relocation.com
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E-govErnMEnt: onlinE SEr vicES For SMES
whether you are setting up a business or completing salary statements, the interactive SME web portal will make life easier. you can order debt collection reports, apply for an entry in the commercial register and register a trademark – all with the click of a mouse.
Thanks to e-Government, administrative procedures, which used to involve reams of paper, can now be dealt with electronically. The interconnected nature of business has radically altered the operating environment for SMEs. Even small firms now face international competition. It is therefore vital for the state to help create the best conditions for doing business. By expanding its online services, the federal government is increasing Switzerland’s appeal as a location for business.
here’s how to make the most of the SME portal www.kmu. admin.ch:
Electronic office for start-ups Do you want to start your own business? Simply log on to our electronic business start-up site www.startbiz.ch and register your firm from the comfort of your own home. This service helps you register your company with social insurance, the Commercial Register, VAT and accident insurance. A study by Zurich University of Applied Sciences has found that this will save you about half the time you would otherwise need.
commercial register, criminal records, or debt collection reports Do you need information about a business partner, supplier
or a customer? You can use the SME portal to order extracts from the commercial register, criminal records and debt collection reports from the appropriate offices all from your computer.
Salary statements You don’t have your own software to create salary statements? The SME portal allows you to use free software provided by the Swiss Conference on Taxation SSK to generate your salary statements.
trademark Would you like to register a trademark? The SME portal makes it easy for you to register a trademark at the Federal Institute of Intellectual Property.
information Do you want to keep up to date with the latest developments? The SME portal and the SME newsletter provide you with regular updates on a range of issues from getting started to running a business and sorting out who will take over the business when you retire.
Secure electronic business transactions To help provide a breakthrough in electronic business transactions in Switzerland, the federal government launched SuisseID in 2010. SuisseID is an electronic proof of identity providing a legally valid digital signature for business transactions and dealings with the authorities. The digital signature is legally equivalent to a handwritten signature. SuisseID is similar to a bank card with a personal identification number (PIN code). SuisseID is available to any natural person in the form of a smart card or a USB stick. The website www.suisseid.ch provides information about where to order SuisseID and instructions on how to use it.
information:
www.kmu.admin.ch (SME portal)
www.startbiz.ch (electronic office for start-ups)
www.suisseid.ch (electronic proof of identity)
www.egovernment.ch (information on the federal government’s e-Government-strategy)
“Take advantage of the federal government’s online services! It is worthwhile paying a visit to www.kmu.admin.ch.” Christian Weber, Head of e-Government for SMEs, SME Policy Section in SECO’s Promotion Activities Directorate
Jürg zürchEr, Sonnbau, chur, ownEr
“I am a trained mechanical engineer and worked for many years as a fitter in the solar industry. In 2012 my boss gave up his installation business leaving me without a job. I seized the opportunity and made my long-held dream come true by setting up my own business, Sonnbau. As a one-man operation, I work in a network with other technicians. We install photovoltaic systems on roofs in Graubünden.
I registered my company using the online company start-up portal, www.startbiz.ch. The portal is clearly structured and straightforward to use and helped me sail through the process of creating my company. Without StartBiz, I would have had to contact several offices or hire a consultant to get all the information I needed. A few mouse clicks on the portal led me to the registration pages, to the necessary forms to print out and to the addresses where to send the forms. This saved me a huge amount of time.
My business is doing well. I enjoy being my own boss. Now I’m self-employed, I can live out my creativity.”
www.sonnbau.ch
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Financing: govErnMEnt hElp in accESSing Start-up capital
do you want to set up a new business or expand an existing one but you don’t have the necessary capital? there are a range of federal government instruments which help you finance your business and create good framework conditions.
The federal government cannot fund companies directly, nor does it intend to. But it helps to create good conditions on the capital markets. The SECO-led “SME capital market” working group, composed of representatives from business and the federal administration, keeps track of developments in lending to SMEs.
we can help you find capital for your business:
commercial guarantees Entrepreneurs usually need to borrow funds to found or develop a business. This is when a guarantee can be of use. Guarantee cooperatives make it easier for promising small and medium-sized enterprises to obtain bank loans. In Switzerland there are three regional guarantee cooperatives and one national cooperative especially for women entrepreneurs, SAFFA. They offer loan guarantees of up to CHF 500,000. The federal government bears 65 per cent of the risk of loss and part of the administrative costs.
Swiss Society for hotel credit The Swiss Society for Hotel Credit (SGH) helps hotels fund infrastructure investments: from granting loans, drawing up feasibility studies and business plans, through to benchmarking against competitors. The society aims to boost the international competitiveness of the Swiss hotel trade by providing comprehensive support.
cti invest The private and independently operated CTI Invest supports start-ups in their search for startup capital. CTI Invest offers young entrepreneurs a platform to present their business ideas to a wide audience of business angels and national and international venture capital firms.
information:
www.kmu-buergschaften.ch (overview of the four guarantee cooperatives)
www.bgmitte.ch (Central Switzerland’s guarantee cooperative for SMEs)
www.bgost.ch (Eastern Switzerland’s guarantee cooperative for SMEs)
www.cautionnementromand.ch (SME guarantee cooperative for Western Switzerland)
www.saffa.ch (Women’s Guarantee Cooperative)
www.sgh.ch (Swiss Society for Hotel Credit)
www.cti-invest.ch (private non-profit organisation that supports start-ups on financing issues)
www.seco.admin.ch (available in German, Fr ench and Italian) Themen > Standortförderung > KMU Politik > Finanzierung der KMU
“Swiss SMEs should be assured the best regulatory environment, including access to capital. That’s what the federal government is striving for.” Martin Godel, Head of SME Policy in SECO’s Promotion Activities Directorate
JEan-MariE MaulEr, MaulEr & ciE Sa, MôtiErS,
Managing dirEctor
“I am the fourth generation in my family to run the Mauler Môtiers vineyard in the Neuchâtel Jura. We have been producing sparkling wines in an old monastery using traditional methods since 1829.
To meet increasing demand, in the 1990s we decided to build a modern cellar and offices on the edge of the village. A major bank granted us a loan of several million francs so that we could build. Back then, the mortgage interest rate was at record levels. At the time Switzerland was sliding into recession. At the same time foreign competition was making inroads into the Swiss market. We had no other choice but to invest more in sales and marketing. We took on another loan. We were paying so much interest that we lacked the funds to expand the company.
Our bank would not give us any more loans. So we turned to the Western Switzerland Guarantee Cooperative. In early 2007 it agreed to bear the risk of a 150,000-franc loan. Without this guarantee, our company would have been in jeopardy.
As a result, our economic situation began to improve, but we still had liquidity problems. At the end of 2007 the guarantee cooperative increased its guarantee to 500,000 francs, which allowed us to take out another loan of 350,000 francs. This gave us the cash safety net we needed.
Guarantees create trust. Thanks to the guarantees we received, the banks were prepared to grant loans and the shareholders to increase the capital. But it also raised confidence among our employees. Since 2004, we have recorded an annual sales growth rate of five to ten per cent.”
www.mauler.ch
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SErv: SEcurity and liquidity For ExportErS
Export orders entail numerous risks. Swiss Export risk insurance SErv gives you and your bank the security you need when conducting business across international boundaries.
Imagine that you are shipping goods abroad and there is unexpected political unrest in the destination country, which means you wait in vain for outstanding invoices to be paid. Or your customer pays the amount due in the local currency, but the central bank is not prepared to issue the foreign currency required. Both scenarios can hit a small business hard. SERV can protect you against risks of this kind. It insures export transactions by Swiss companies to politically or economically risky countries.
SErv reduces your export risk and helps your company achieve higher liquidity:
insurance for guaranteed receipt of payment SERV insurance protects your business against payment default resulting from economic or political risks. You are covered if the foreign buyer cannot or does not want to pay. SERV steps in when extraordinary measures are imposed by governments or events such as war, revolution, annexation or civil unrest occur. For example, your company receives compensation if private debtors are unable to pay or due to the political situation goods are lost, confiscated or damaged, or cannot be re-exported.
guarantee for banks You need capital to take on new export orders, but you have already reached your guarantee and credit limit with the bank? As SERV provides a guarantee to cover a possible debt default, you can get the required capital from the bank without exceeding your existing credit limit. This gives your company the necessary liquidity to take on new business and expand.
advice SERV has considerable expertise in structuring, financing and securing export business. The SERV team will be happy to advise you.
information:
www.serv-ch.com (Swiss Export Risk Insurance)
insurance:
SERV insurance is available to any company that has its headquarters in Switzerland. There is no minimum size, either in terms of the company or its turnover. Besides the export of consumer and investment goods, SERV also covers exports of services such as construction, maintenance and engineering work or licence and expertise agreements.
“SERV products give Swiss SMEs the security they need to export goods abroad.” Claudio Franzetti, acting SERV Director
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urS tSchudin, tSchudin ag, grEnchEn, propriEtor
“In 1947 my father built his first cylindrical grinding machine in a small workshop in Grenchen. I have always been fascinated by these machines, even as a young child. No one was surprised when I took over Tschudin AG in 1986.
We manufacture high-precision cylindrical grinding machines with which our customers can produce cylindrical parts. We supply to companies in various industries throughout Europe. Business is good. We have enough orders, and the margins are right. This success is due primarily to our innovative team of 20 employees. Thanks to modern improvements, we are always one step ahead of our competitors.
We have used the services of Swiss Export Risk Insurance SERV for several years now. Some of our customers want to cover themselves before they make a down payment for an order. With a SERV deposit guarantee they would get their money back if Tschudin AG could not deliver for some reason. Thanks to the SERV guarantee we receive our customers’ deposits and so always have enough liquid funds.
Cooperation with SERV is excellent. Their team is very professional and always gives us competent advice. We will continue using the services of SERV in the future.”
www.tschudin.eu
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SwitzErland global EntErpriSE: opEning nEw doorS
Switzerland global Enterprise (formerly known as osec) has a government mandate to help businesses set up or expand activities abroad. it is a centre of Excellence for internationalisation promoting exports, imports and investments and can help you to tap new potential for your international business with its global network of consultants and experts. Switzerland global Enterprise also helps foreign companies to setup office in Switzerland.
Businesses that are active on international markets usually not only become more productive and competitive, but also more innovative. But moving into international markets represents a major step for Swiss SMEs. Switzerland Global Enterprise has a global network of internationalisation specialists to help companies in Switzerland and Liechtenstein enter markets abroad.
Switzerland global Enterprise helps Swiss SMEs to enter markets abroad and foreign companies to trade in Switzerland:
Export promotion As an expert in internationalisation, Switzerland Global Enterprise helps you to identify and tap new business opportunities worldwide. Specialists keep you in touch with relevant developments in the global markets, arrange contacts and help you to seize new business opportunities. Switzerland Global Enterprise conducts market analyses for you and supports you with trade fairs abroad under the general aegis of SWISS Pavilion. On the “Expert Directory” internet platform you can find an expert for your export or internationalisation projects quickly and easily.
import promotion Under SECO’s economic development cooperation programme, Switzerland Global Enterprise supports SMEs in selected partner countries by easing their access to the market and opening up new business opportunities in Switzerland and the EU. This strengthens the competitiveness of these companies as well as cooperation and trade relations between Switzerland, the EU countries and the partner countries. In addition, importers in Switzerland and in Europe benefit from contacts with reliable suppliers in the partner countries.
location promotion Switzerland Global Enterprise informs potential foreign investors about the specific strengths of Switzerland as a business location and conditions which reign here. Switzerland Global Enterprise helps the cantons to attract foreign companies by conducting market and trend analyses and coordinating the activities of all bodies involved in promoting Switzerland as a business location.
Swiss business hubs The Swiss Business Hubs are Switzerland Global Enterprise’s representatives abroad. Locally based experts with vast experience of the markets can provide your SME with useful information about your target market and help you to establish important contacts. They are familiar with local customs and know how to open doors to decision-makers and obtain access to ministries and public authorities.
information:
www.s-ge.com/en (Switzerland Global Enterprise)
www.expertdirectory.ch (Find an expert on your export or interna tionalisation project quickly and easily)
“Innovation, productivity, quality and swissness – these are the characteristics of a Swiss business. They are what distinguish Swiss businesses abroad and they must be stressed again and again in order to remain successful in international markets.” Daniel Küng, CEO of Switzerland Global Enterprise
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alESSandro prioglio, tEq Sa, lugano, cEo
“TEQ manufactures electronic components which are installed in trucks and buses. We produce, for example, displays, control modules and sensors. We also develop fleet management systems. These are used by public transport operation control centres and show passengers the waiting times at bus stops.
Until a few years ago we supplied customers primarily in Italy and Germany. Lately, we have increasingly been able to attract customers in Switzerland, Turkey and Ukraine. We are currently trying to enter the Russian and Spanish markets.
Seven years ago, we bid for a contract for a fleet management system in Italy. This involved facing quite a few bureaucratic hurdles. The Chamber of Commerce of the canton of Ticino drew our attention to Switzerland Global Enterprise. The internationalisation specialist helped us to overcome the obstacles. Since then, Switzerland Global Enterprise has always provided us with valuable advice. The organisation also helps us to establish business abroad by giving us contacts, especially for our activities in Russia. The employees at Switzerland Global Enterprise are always very dedicated and competent, even though we operate in a specific niche. For any SME wanting to establish business relationships abroad, I can highly recommend working with Switzerland Global Enterprise.”
www.teq.ch
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Education and training: an opportunity For SMES and a
worthwhilE invEStMEnt For all
well-trained professionals and managers are critical to the success of a company. the State Secretariat for Education, research and innovation SEri ensures that education and training opportunities are wide-ranging and flexible – from vocational education and training through to higher education. SMEs that engage in education and training benefit in several ways: for example, an attractive cost-benefit ratio, new ideas for running their company and public recognition.
The State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation SERI works with the cantons, professional and business associations and social partners to ensure there are sufficient apprenticeship places and modern vocational and professional education and training (VPET) programmes. SERI promotes the vocational baccalaureate programme and advocates an attractive range of opportunities – from professional education and training (professional colleges and federal vocational and professional education and training examinations), through to higher education institutions. Innovations, such as new professions or learning methods, are particularly encouraged. SERI also coordinates Swiss VPET with other countries.
SEri and its partners can help you with vpEt:
cantonal vpEt office Do you want to train apprentices or do you have questions about training? At the cantonal VPET offices you can get individual advice and support.
handbook on vocational Education and training Do you train apprentices? The Handbook on Vocational Education and Training in Companies provides a host of practical aids such as factsheets, checklists and forms.
host company networks Perhaps your capacity is limited or you can only cover part of a training programme because your business is too specialised? In host company networks, several companies team up to offer apprenticeships.
vocational training portal Are you already involved in vocational education and training or would you like to be? BERUFSBILDUNGPLUS.CH gives you plenty of relevant information, useful help and links.
label for host companies You want to show customers and business partners that you are committed to training? Host companies which train students receive a special label from their cantonal VPET office.
Mobility programmes Do you want to experience something different? The “ch Stiftung” foundation offers a comprehensive range of exchange and mobility programmes, both within Switzerland and in Europe and around the world. The foundation supports businesses and young people, so that both sides can benefit from an exchange.
information:
www.SERI.admin.ch (State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation)
www.sbbk.ch (cantonal VPET offices)
www.sdbb.ch (handbook of basic vocational training)
www.berufsbildung.ch (host company networks)
www.berufsbildungplus.ch (campaign by network partners)
www.ch-go.ch (ch Stiftung: exchange and mobility programmes)
www.berufsberatung.ch (job, study and career advice)
“SMEs which train invest in the future.” Josef Widmer, SERI Deputy Director and Head of the Vocational and Professional Education and Training Directorate
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daniEl FlücKigEr, S. FlücKigEr ag, auSwil, hEad oF thE
bodyworK dEpartMEnt and MEMbEr oF thE board
“It all started with my grandfather. In the 1920s he set up a repair workshop in Auswil in the canton of Bern. My father expanded the business in the 1960s and got into the car dealership business. My sister, my brother and I took over the business in the 1990s. In addition to selling and trading cars and agricultural machinery, we offer repair and service work. We also have a body shop. Our customer base extends far beyond the cantonal border. S. Flückiger AG has more than 40 employees and is currently training 15 apprentices.
I am responsible for four apprentices in the bodywork department. Two auto body mechanics and two body paint technicians are completing a four-year VET programme. When you show the apprentices how to do the job and give them time, they learn the skills and become good employees. When apprentices receive due support and encouragement, they give a lot in return.
Before starting an apprenticeship, potential apprentices complete a three-day trial in our company. If they like the work and the chemistry is right, they can extend their work experience an additional week. To date, I have trained twelve apprentices. My experience has been positive in all respects.
I am proud of all my apprentices. I am particularly happy with André Schmid. He holds a Federal PET Diploma and is Swiss champion among auto body mechanics. He participated at the World Skills Championships in Leipzig, where he showed the world what you can learn in Auswil.”
www.sfag.ch
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rESEarch and innovation: harnESSing thE ExpEr tiSE oF
public rESEarch inStitutionS
public research institutions in the Eth domain (Swiss Federal institutes of technology) at universities and universities of applied science have a wealth of expertise and the latest findings. Make the most of this potential! you can commission a research project, seek advice from experts, acquire usage rights for new products or processes, use research infrastructure or take part in continued education and training. the State Secretariat for Education, research and innovation (SEri) is committed to providing optimal conditions for research and makes funding available.
The doors of public research institutions are wide open for businesses. They make ideal innovation partners for SMEs that cannot afford to conduct their own R&D. Cooperation pays off for SMEs. This knowledge and technology transfer results in innovative products, novel processes and promising services. Through public-private partnerships SMEs ensure their success in the market and increase their competitiveness at both national and international levels.
this is how you can benefit from cooperation with public research institutions:
research cooperation Are you looking for a suitable public research institution to work with on a joint R&D project? The ETH Domain institutions (ETH Zurich, EPF Lausanne, the Paul Scherrer Institute, WSL, Empa and Eawag), universities and universities of applied sciences can help you find the right research partner. The Euresearch network provides support for European projects. In a cooperation agreement with your partners, you define the respective tasks as well as the ownership, exploitation and publication rights of research findings. Funding is provided directly by the project partners, but can also be obtained in the form of national or international grant funding awarded through competition.
Forms of cooperation: 77 Direct research cooperation: your SME and the research
institution carry out projects together. 77 CTI projects: application-oriented R&D projects (see page
20). 77 European projects: you can benefit from EU funding for ap
plication-oriented and cross-border research projects. There are also other European research initiatives such as EUREKA and COST. The SME Eurosearch network provides information about the possibilities of participating in European research cooperation and helps you get your projects rolling.
77 Contract research: the public research institutions will carry out research on your behalf.
Exploiting technology Are you looking for innovative solutions for new products? As an SME you can acquire the rights to use findings from public research institutions.
advice Do you need expert advice? Public research institutions offer professional advice as well as analyses, assessments and expert reports.
research infrastructure Are you looking for access to state-of-the-art infrastructure? Public research institutions are equipped with the latest equipment and facilities, which can be made available to SMEs when there is a mutual interest.
practice-oriented continued education and training Are you looking for continued education training opportunities for yourself or for your employees? Universities hold information events and offer continuing education and training courses where they provide you with the latest findings from science and research.
information:
www.sbfi.admin.ch (State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation)
www.euresearch.ch (Coordination network and information centre for European research coordination)
www.ethrat.ch/wtt (Knowledge and technology transfer in the ETH Domain)
www.crus.ch (Rectors’ Conference of the Swiss Universities – access to all universities)
www.kfh.ch (Rectors’ Conference of the Swiss Universities of Applied Sciences – access to all universities of applied sciences)
“The doors of public research institutions are wide open for SMEs.” Jürg Burri, Head of the Research and Innovation Directorate, SERI
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proF. Jutta hEiM, Evolva Sa, rEinach (bl), SEnior SciEntiFic
adviSor For Evolva and MEMbEr oF thE board oF dirEctorS
“Evolva specialises in the development and production of biosynthetic products in the fields of nutrition health and well being. Our leading product is a sugar substitute, without any unpleasant aftertaste. Evolva has its headquarters in Reinach in the canton of Basel-Landschaft. We operate a second research centre in Copenhagen and have offices in India and the USA. Evolva has a staff of around 100 employees.
We often work with Swiss universities of applied sciences, universities and the ETH Domain. We are currently working with the University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland in Muttenz on a CTI project focussed on developing a specific anti-ageing skin product. We have begun work on another research project with the Paul Scherrer Institute. The University of Basel allows us to use special equipment, which would be too expensive for us to purchase on our own. Of course we also benefit from the expertise of the scientists. In Switzerland alone, we can contact ten scientific advisors from various universities.
Evolva has been involved in several European research projects monitored by the Swiss Coordination Office for Euresearch. During these projects, we exchange knowledge, databases and chemical and biological substances with the participating research institutions and SMEs. We can use the research findings to develop and manufacture our products. In addition, every new project expands our network. The grant funding covers up to about three quarters of our project.”
www.evolva.ch
1919
thE cti: hElping you to turn your idEaS into innov ativE
productS
Switzerland’s economy relies on innovation; it is what makes it attractive as a location for business. good ideas alone are not enough though. Economic success hinges on the ability to turn those ideas into marketable products. the commission for technology and innovation (cti) can help you develop your ideas and bring them to fruition.
As the federal government’s innovation promotion agency, the CTI has the task of promoting innovation by providing funding, advice and networks, thereby channelling scientific research to boost economic performance. Promotion is applied according to the principle of subsidiarity, i.e. when innovation is stalling or market potential remains untapped. The CTI therefore helps to improve the competitiveness of Swiss companies, in particular SMEs, and the performance of organisations serving the Swiss public.
the cti uses the following instruments to promote your ideas:
r&d Funding The CTI helps leverage innovation by co-funding R&D projects that companies, public sponsors or non-profit organisations carry out together with public research institutions. With a focus on new technologies and findings, the CTI provides funding for projects that are geared towards rapid implementation, and in particular for projects in the areas of life sciences, micro and nanotechnologies, engineering sciences and enabling sciences.
Start-up and Entrepreneurship The CTI encourages young entrepreneurs and scientists to think in an entrepreneurial way. It offers training programmes and coaching to provide young entrepreneurs with the necessary professional support to successfully implement their business ideas. Support is given to knowledge-intensive and technology-based companies with great market potential.
77 “CTI Entrepreneurship” provides potential young entrepreneurs with all they need to know about starting up a new company. Programme options range from awareness raising events to five-day courses.
77 “CTI Start-up” offers company founders individual training and coaching to facilitate fundraising and develop a market entry strategy. After the coaching process, the best companies are awarded the CTI Start-up Label. This is an important step on the road to success as it confirms market opportunities and venture capital capability.
77 “CTI Invest” (an association under private law) supports young entrepreneurs who have already gone through the CTI coaching programme or been awarded the CTI Start-up Label, in their search for start-up capital.
Ktt Support The CTI encourages the transfer of knowledge and technology (KTT) between universities and industry to get innovation projects and start-up ideas off the ground. Innovation mentors provide on-site information about funding opportunities and help prepare applications for funding. The national thematic network (NTN) brings SMEs and public research institutions from all over Switzerland together. Interactive and physical KTT platforms allow users to establish contacts and exchange experiences.
information:
www.kti.admin.ch (Commission for Technology and Innovation; R&D grants: Funding provided for applied research and development projects; WTT Support: knowledge and technology transfer)
www.ctistartup.ch (CTI Start-up: a coaching programme for innovative young entrepreneurs; CTI Start-up Label: Award granted to promising new companies)
www.cti-entrepreneurship.ch (a training and educational frame work to help new companies grow)
www.cti-invest.ch (an association under private law that helps new companies find investment capital)
“Switzerland is the world leader in innovation performance. To keep our leading position, we support the translation of science-based ideas into economic performance. This keeps our economy strong.” Klara Sekanina, Director of the Commission for Technology and Innovation CTI
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tiMo haFnEr, gaStroS ag, zurich, FoundEr
“A few years ago I burned my fingers on a metal container used to keep food warm at a hotel buffet. This led me to the idea for my novel warming system called Induct-Warm®, which involves specially coated porcelain kept hot using induction technology.
I set out to develop the product in 2006 and in 2010 I started the venturelab training course organised by the Commission for Technology and Innovation (CTI). Specialists accompanied me in several modules through all the stages of setting up the business: from devising a business plan to the internationalisation of the business. CTI mentors helped me resolve detailed problems during intensive sessions. At the same time, I was accepted onto the CTI’s Start-up Coaching programme. An advisor helped me to structure the company and find investors. This was a huge help.
Gastros AG has won several awards, including the 2011 Gastrovision Innovations Award and the Venturekick competition. In addition, our company was awarded the CTI Start-up-Label in 2012. Without the CTI we would not be where we are today. It is only with the support of the CTI that our project became a company.
Our core team consists of five people. Our clients include leading hotels, airline lounges, catering companies and private households throughout the world. We will also use the CTI’s services in the future. We recently submitted an application to the CTI for an R&D project grant. We would like to develop a new product with a university and an industrial company so that we can tap new markets.”
www.gastros.ch
2121
coMbining worK and FaMily liFE: it can bE donE
and it’S worthwhilE!
28 per cent of all people in employment have children un-der the age of fifteen. that means 1.23 million people have to juggle work and family life every day. an employment policy aimed at helping them is good for all firms, including small and medium-sized businesses. the SME handbook on work and family (available in german, French and italian) is a practical guide that shows how you can benefit from running your business in a family-friendly manner.
As an employer, you have women and men on your payroll who have a variety of family duties to fulfil. Large firms can afford to offer childcare facilities, but you may not. However you know your employees well and can respond to their individual needs more flexibly.
improve your business performance and competitive position:
Finding a work-life balance Models that make it easier to combine work and family life are good for small and medium-sized businesses too: think for instance of flexible working hours, part-time and teleworking (an approach in which employees do at least part of their work off company premises). This makes you a more attractive employer. Staff are more motivated and reward you with greater commitment and higher productivity. They are loyal to the company and less likely to leave for other firms. Sharing responsibility more widely and spreading the skills base of your employees reduces business risks. Absences and staff turnover fall, keeping down the costs of recruiting and training new staff.
a practical guide Our manual on how small and medium-sized businesses can help their employees combine work and family life contains a full description of the benefits of family-friendly working models. It is full of specific examples and tips for your dayto-day routine. Case studies on companies that are already using such models are presented. You will find the numerous checklists and working materials particularly useful. The project is supported by the Confederation of Swiss Employers and the Swiss Federation of Small and Medium Enterprises.
information:
You can order the publication (available in German, French and Italian) free of charge or download it from the following address: www.seco.admin.ch Themen > Arbeit > Beruf und Familie/Frauen und Karriere > Vereinbarkeit von Beruf und Familie
“Take a look at the SME handbook on work and family: it is full of specific examples and tips for your day-to-day routine.” Anne Küng Gugler, Dep. Head of the Labour Market & Social Policy Analyses unit of the Economic Policy Directorate, SECO
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bEatrix thoMa, rinco ultraSonicS ag, roManShorn,
hEad oF huMan rESourcES
“Rinco Ultrasonics AG has been manufacturing ultrasonic equipment in Romanshorn since 1976. Our customers throughout the world use our machines to weld plastic components together, such as mobile phone housings or coffee machine components. We also produce cutting units and stations to cut synthetic textiles and food.
I began working for Rinco as a part-time receptionist in 1996. After a year, I was offered a job as secretary to the director. I then trained as a personnel specialist and was hired as head of human resources.
The company has 47 employees, 15 of whom work part time. We have flexible working hours before 8.30 in the morning and from 4.30 in the afternoon. Two women share the job of receptionist. This has the advantage that they can cover for each other during the holidays or if they are ill. We give priority to mothers and fathers when planning the holiday schedule so they can take time off during the school holidays. We are also flexible to changing an employee’s free afternoons to adapt to a change in a child’s timetable. We also offer paid paternity leave of five days, and the opportunity for mothers and fathers to take unpaid leave and to reduce their level of employment.
It is thanks to these flexible working conditions that our company won an award as the most family-friendly company in the canton of Thurgau. These conditions are the key to our low staff turnover rate. The employees are satisfied and identify strongly with our company. Candidates always appreciate that we are a family-friendly employer.”
www.rincoultrasonics.com
2323
addrESSES
Switzerland’s SME policy
Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research EAER Federal Palace East Wing 3003 Bern Phone +41 31 322 20 07 Fax +41 31 322 21 94 [email protected] www.wbf.admin.ch
State Secretariat for Economic Affairs SECO Holzikofenweg 36 3003 Bern Phone +41 31 322 56 56 Fax +41 31 322 27 49 [email protected] www.seco.admin.ch www.sme.admin.ch
State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation SERI Effingerstrasse 27 3003 Bern Phone +41 31 322 21 29 Fax +41 31 324 96 14 [email protected] www.sbfi.admin.ch
innovation
Commission for Technology and Innovation CTI Effingerstrasse 27 3003 Bern Phone +41 31 322 21 29 Fax +41 31 322 21 15 [email protected] www.kti.admin.ch
CTI Invest Seehofstrasse 6 8008 Zurich Phone +41 79 251 32 09 [email protected] www.cti-invest.ch
venturelab c/o IFJ Institut für Jungunternehmen Kirchlistrasse 1 9010 St Gallen Phone +41 71 242 98 88 Fax +41 71 242 98 99 [email protected] www.venturelab.ch
venturelab PSE-C 1015 Lausanne Phone +41 21 533 09 80 [email protected] www.venturelab.ch
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Funding support
BG Mitte, Bürgschaftsgenossenschaft für KMU Bahnhofstrasse 59D Postfach 1104 3401 Burgdorf Phone +41 34 420 20 20 Fax +41 34 420 20 29 [email protected] www.bgm-ccc.ch
BG Ost, Bürgschaftsgenossenschaft für KMU Rorschacherstrasse 150 Postfach 170 9006 St Gallen Phone +41 71 242 00 60 Fax +41 71 242 00 70 [email protected] www.bgost.ch
Coopérative romande de cautionnement – PME (CRC-PME) Avenue Général Guisan 117 Case postale 109 1009 Pully Phone +41 21 721 11 91 Fax +41 21 721 11 90 [email protected] www.crcpme.ch
SAFFA Bürgschaftsgenossenschaft Auf der Lyss 14 4051 Basel Phone +41 61 683 18 42 Fax +41 61 322 06 15 [email protected] www.saffa.ch
Schweizerische Gesellschaft für Hotelkredit Gartenstrasse 25 Postfach 8027 Zurich Phone +41 44 209 16 16 Fax +41 44 209 16 17 [email protected] www.sgh.ch
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Support for internationalisation
Switzerland Global Enterprise Stampfenbachstrasse 85 8006 Zurich Phone +41 44 365 51 51 Fax +41 44 365 52 21 [email protected] www.s-ge.com
Switzerland Global Enterprise Avenue d’Ouchy 47 Case postale 315 1001 Lausanne Phone +41 21 613 35 70 Fax +41 21 613 35 02 [email protected] www.s-ge.com
Switzerland Global Enterprise Corso Elvezia 16 Casella postale 5399 6901 Lugano Phone +41 91 911 51 35 Fax +41 91 911 51 39 [email protected] www.s-ge.com
SERV Swiss Export Risk Insurance Zeltweg 63 8032 Zurich Phone +41 58 551 55 55 Fax +41 58 551 55 00 [email protected] www.serv-ch.com
S chw e i ze r i s ch e Ei d g e n o s s e n s cha f t SMEPORTAL www.sme.admin.ch Co n fé d éra t i o n s uis s e
Co n fe d era z i o n e Sv i z zera Co n fe d era z i u n s v i z r a
Setting up business online: // sme.admin.ch
The SMEPORTAL of the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs SECO
is the leading information platform for small and medium-sized
enterprises in Switzerland. Company founders can register their business
in the Commercial Register, with the Compensation Office and for
VAT and Accident Insurance online. So to save time and money, take
advantage of the online business services.
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