How we work together
Innovation is created through collaboration
New technologies are crucial to sustainable business success. As Austria’s leading research center for electronics- and software-based systems, Silicon Austria Labs (SAL) helps companies efficiently transform innovative ideas into marketable solutions.
We collaborate with partners from a variety of industries and of all sizes — from startups and SMEs to international corporations. Our focus is on application-oriented research across the entire value chain: from the initial idea to the prototype.
Our goal: to make collaboration as simple, efficient, and effective as possible.
Opportunities for collaboration
SAL offers flexible collaboration models tailored to specific requirements and project goals — ranging from long-term partnerships to clearly defined research contracts.
Cooperative model
The collaborative research model provides an accessible entry point into joint research projects and combines innovative strength with efficient implementation.
- Co-financing of up to 50% of project costs by SAL
- Combination of cash and in-kind contributions possible
- Quick, streamlined project launch without a traditional grant application
- Bilateral or multilateral project structures
- Focus on applied, industry-oriented research (TRL 3–6)
This model is particularly well-suited for the joint development of new technologies while sharing the risk structure.
Contract research
For clearly defined research questions or specific development goals, SAL offers contract research with a high degree of planning reliability and rapid implementation.
Services include, among others:
- Technology research and feasibility studies
- Proof-of-concept and prototype development
- Measurements, tests, and validations
Advantages:
- Rapid project launch and transparent project structure
- Access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure
- IP rights generally remain with the client
- Research at TRL levels 3–8
R&D Services
In addition to research projects, SAL offers specialized R&D services covering individual stages of development.
The portfolio ranges from design and simulation through characterization, measurement, and testing to manufacturing in the field of micro- and nanotechnology. Services can be utilized flexibly and tailored to specific needs.
