The number of start-ups in Switzerland remains largely stable in the first half of 2025. Notable growth is particularly visible in Central Switzerland and Geneva, while new companies are rather down in Ticino. The geopolitical situation and AI contribute to these developments.
During the first half of 2025, around 27,600 new companies were recorded in Switzerland. The number of business creators therefore remains stable, with a slight increase of 0.8% compared to the same period in 2024, indicates startups.ch. However, regional differences are observed.
More start-ups in Central Switzerland and in Geneva, less in Ticino
Central Switzerland has thus recorded growth of almost 8%, attracting many founders from the rest of German -speaking Switzerland, a phenomenon attributed to local tax policy.
Geneva leads the cantons with an increase of more than 12% of new registrations in the commercial register. Startups.ch explains this increase by the growth of the extended region of “Greater Geneva” and a marked cross -border dynamism. With 92,000 French cross-border workers in the region, this number has almost tripled since 2002, which represents a net engine for start-ups meeting the needs of the markets on both sides of the border. To this are added, according to the press release, tax incentives, research and development support programs as well as attractive conditions for start -ups focused on innovation.
In Ticino, however, the number of new business creations decreased by 4.9% compared to the previous year. This drop would in particular be linked to the tightening of tax constraints for Italians wishing to create a business in this canton, said the press release.
Geopolitical and IA situation
International tensions and unpredictable customs policy of the United States also contribute to a general reluctance to create companies. According to Startups.ch, it is mainly the potential founders with trade relations with the United States that is concerned. In addition, simple services are increasingly automated thanks to AI, while demand for AI consulting services is increasing.
