The Site Development Process
With its focus on Advanced Materials, the SFG is pursuing a long-term regional development process. This is not a short-term campaign or a single funding program. The focus is on building a high-performing, comprehensive ecosystem.
Specifically, this means that the SFG brings together companies, research institutions, universities, clusters, and other relevant stakeholders. It organizes networking events, compiles information, creates transparency regarding strengths and needs, and supports communication within the emerging community.
At the same time, the SFG aims to serve as an interface with national and European developments. When programs, platforms, or funding opportunities arise, the Styrian community should be as well-prepared as possible and able to contribute its expertise in a targeted manner.
Our goals for the first phase of the process:
- Identifying the needs, strengths, and opportunities of the Styrian ecosystem
- Building a powerful Advanced Materials Community
- Systematic networking of companies, research institutions, and relevant stakeholders
- Supporting technology transfer into industrial applications
- Increasing regional, national, and international visibility
- Transparency regarding national and European funding instruments
Process Steps
First Advisory Board Meeting – August 6, 2026
At the first meeting of the strategic advisory board, fundamental decisions were made regarding the strategic and thematic direction of the site development process. In addition to discussing current developments in the materials sector, important insights were gained regarding the focus of the process and its thematic guidelines.
Kick-off Roundtable – May 27, 2026
Together with Provincial Councilor for Economic Affairs Willibald Ehrenhöfer, the SFG team presented the new priority topic of Advanced Materials. Approximately 50 stakeholders from business, research, interest groups, and government accepted the invitation to the Hotel Weitzer in Graz.
State Councilor Willibald Ehrenhöfer welcomed the guests and emphasized the immense importance of “Advanced Materials” for Styria as a business location. Following this, the SFG’s project facilitators outlined the initiative’s scope, and the ensuing discussion provided them with an initial assessment of the situation from the community.
