The discussion will focus on the current developments and strategies to maintain and enhance Austria's attractiveness as a location for international headquarters.

International corporate headquarters play a vital role in value creation in Austria. They generate highly qualified jobs, promote innovations, and strengthen international networking of the economy. However, Austria's appeal as a headquarters location is under increasing pressure due to bureaucratic hurdles, high tax burdens, a shortage of skilled workers—particularly in the digital sector—and rising energy and location costs, which threaten competitiveness.

Under the moderation of Die Presse- journalist Madlen Stottmeyer, leading economic experts will analyze these developments and discuss strategies to sustain and grow Austria's reputation as an attractive location for international headquarters.

Notable speakers include:

• Phillip C. Nell, leader of the Headquarters in Austria research project at WU Vienna
• Birgit Rechberger-Krammer, President of Henkel Austria & Corporate Senior Vice President Henkel Consumer Brands Europe
• Rene Tritscher, Managing Director, Austrian Business Agency
• Martina Sennebogen, Chairwoman of the Board, Capgemini Austria
• Manfred Stanek, Chairman of the Board, Semperit AG Holding

The initiative aims to foster entrepreneurial and research spirit by supporting practically relevant research projects in areas such as entrepreneurship and innovation, internationalization and growth, and the economic landscape.

The central idea is to strengthen the link between local top research and Austria's economy, facilitating a bridge between theory and practice through various projects and activities to promote the economic environment.