SEF4KMU

SEF4KMU operates as the Swiss Economic Forum's dedicated Growth Initiative, providing complimentary strategic support to Swiss startups and small-to-medium enterprises with ambitious expansion plans. Since its inception in 2012, this entrepreneur-focused program has successfully assisted over 100 emerging companies in securing more than CHF 200 million in growth capital. The initiative embodies the philosophy of "by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs," connecting promising ventures with the SEF's distinguished network of industry leaders and subject matter experts for comprehensive strategy analysis sessions.

The program delivers a multifaceted approach to business development, offering thorough validation processes, strategic assessments, and specialized financial and legal consultation from seasoned professionals. Participating companies benefit from a wide spectrum of services addressing various growth success factors, including detailed optimization recommendations tailored to their specific business models. The culmination of this process may result in the prestigious SEF Growth High Potential Label, which serves as a recognized marker of excellence and future promise within the Swiss business ecosystem.

Beyond strategic guidance, SEF4KMU facilitates privileged access to both debt and equity financing opportunities through its partnership with UBS, one of Switzerland's premier financial institutions. Participants also receive intellectual property strategy support powered by the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property (IPI), ensuring that innovation assets are properly protected and leveraged during scaling phases. Additionally, the program grants entrepreneurs integration into exclusive Swiss Economic Forum events, providing invaluable networking opportunities with potential investors, partners, and industry influencers.

Complementing the core program, SEF4KMU regularly hosts complimentary best practice events in collaboration with strategic partners. These gatherings offer participants exclusive insights into successful scaling methodologies, practical implementation strategies, and real-world case studies from accomplished entrepreneurs. With particular attention to supporting female founders, these events create specialized networking opportunities connecting participants with relevant experts and fellow entrepreneurs facing similar growth challenges. The combination of structured program support and ongoing community engagement positions SEF4KMU as a cornerstone resource for Switzerland's next generation of business success stories.