From artificial intelligence and environmental technology to space projects - the award winners prove that future technologies have long been a reality in Upper Austria.
AI, medical technology and green solutions
Sepp Hochreiter's research group in Linz, which is presenting an internationally recognised innovation with its new "xLSTM" AI architecture, was particularly in the spotlight. It enables faster and more precise processing of texts, setting new standards in artificial intelligence. Medicine also benefits from Upper Austrian expertise: a simulator for aneurysm operations was honoured, as was a testing concept for transparent and trustworthy AI applications.
In industry, the EV Group caused a stir with a new measurement technology for microchips. The environmental technology company Scheuch developed a process that reduces CO₂ emissions from flue gases by more than 90 per cent. The STIWA Group also scored highly with a system that makes the production of battery cells significantly more efficient.
From high-tech to space travel
The innovative strength of small and medium-sized companies was also impressively demonstrated. The start-up voidsy won with a highly sensitive tomography system that can detect even the smallest damage to aircraft structures. Peak Technology impressed with precision parts for a space telescope, and framag presented technologies designed to make steel production more climate-friendly.
A particular highlight was the award for "radical innovation": a new type of quantum sensor from the Science Park Linz promises to make measurement processes in medicine and industry simpler and more cost-effective.
The award ceremony makes it clear that Upper Austria is not only a strong industrial centre, but also a hotspot for future technologies. Solutions are being developed here that will have an impact far beyond the state's borders. We think that's #schongenial.
