Vorarlberg

Vorarlberg is the westernmost federal state of Austria and is located in the four-country region bordering Germany, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. Its strategic geographical location ensures excellent accessibility: major European cities such as Zurich and Munich can be reached within approximately two hours by car, while cities like Paris, London, Brussels, or Berlin are just about two flight hours away. Notably, 80% of Vorarlberg’s 321-kilometer border is shared with other countries – a strong indicator of the region’s high international connectivity.

The economically dynamic Lake Constance four-country region is one of Europe’s strongest economic areas, characterized by high purchasing power and intense research and cooperation activity. This environment provides ideal conditions for hosting national and international congresses and conferences.

Vorarlberg offers a solid and growing science and research landscape, supported by the Vorarlberg University of Applied Sciences, research-driven companies, and regional institutions. Local stakeholders already work closely together, strengthening the region as a centre for knowledge and innovation. Through the Lake Constance Arts & Sciences Association, Vorarlberg is also part of an international research and cooperation network.

With its Science and Research Strategy 2030+, the region aims to strategically position Vorarlberg as a location for science, research, and innovation. The focus lies on future-oriented topics such as digitalisation, circular economy, life sciences, and energy. Business, science, and society are to be even more closely interconnected within regional and international networks, creating a dynamic environment for knowledge-based congresses and specialist conferences.

Vorarlberg is among the most innovative regions in Europe. Its innovation rate is approximately twice as high as the Austrian average. The region consistently ranks at the top among Austrian federal states and is placed among the top 20 most innovative regions worldwide.

Around 90% of research and development (R&D) activities are carried out directly by companies. Regional research institutions maintain close cooperation with the private sector, significantly contributing to the region’s high level of innovation.

Key Location Advantages at a Glance

• Strategically central location within high-income markets
• Efficient public administration and short decision-making processes
• Low corporate taxation (no trade or wealth tax)
• Highly qualified workforce with international, practice-oriented education
• Modern, well-connected economic structure
• High productivity and strong export orientation
• Advanced, secure technological infrastructure
• Strong R&D capacity with a high share of internal funding

Vorarlberg is the most industrialized federal state in Austria. The production of goods contributes nearly 30% to the region’s total economic output – a leading figure in international comparison. Key industries include metal and electrical engineering, mechanical and steel engineering, food production, as well as the plastics and packaging sectors.

The region benefits from integrated value chains at a high level, characterized by short communication paths, strong specialization, and dynamic partners from the creative and service industries. Companies based in Vorarlberg are highly export-oriented and closely integrated into international value chains – a development supported by the region’s central location in Europe.

Modern congress centers such as the Festspielhaus Bregenz, Montforthaus Feldkirch, Messe Dornbirn, and Kulturhaus Dornbirn offer flexible space solutions and professional settings for events of all sizes.

In addition, a wide range of specialized conference hotels and meeting venues are available in both urban and scenic locations. The Venue Finderby Convention Partner Vorarlberg supports event planners in selecting suitable venues based on criteria such as capacity, location, or type of event.

Convention Partner Vorarlberg supports event organizers from the early planning phase with a range of services: from location scouting and quote collection to the development of tailor-made event formats. Personalized consulting also includes guidance on the certification of Green Meetings & Green Events.

Sustainability is an integral part of Vorarlberg’s event landscape. Numerous venues and service providers are certified according to environmental standards, covering areas such as mobility, catering, energy supply, and resource efficiency. Organizers receive active support in implementing sustainable event concepts.