Research-business collaboration network Adapter and Estonia’s AI and robotics centre AIRE (AI & Robotics Estonia) are strengthening international partnerships with Switzerland and the wider DACH region. From September, Anu Nef takes on the role of Head of International Partnerships at both organisations, responsible for developing strategic partnerships between Estonian research, innovation and business organisations and their counterparts in Switzerland, Austria and Germany (DACH).
Nef works primarily from Switzerland, while maintaining close cooperation with AIRE and Adapter’s teams and partner organisations in Estonia. Her work focuses on identifying partner organisations for Estonian companies and research institutions, mapping cooperation opportunities and supporting delegations and collaborative visits.
“Switzerland is one of the strongest innovation ecosystems in the world, which is why I see real potential for closer collaboration between Estonian and Swiss research, technology and business organisations,” said Nef. “My goal isn’t simply to grow the number of contacts but to connect the right organisations, in ways that can grow into long-term, substantive partnerships.”
According to Katre Eljas, Head of AIRE, Anu’s presence in Switzerland gives AIRE and Adapter the opportunity to be closer to the DACH ecosystem. “This allows us to move from individual international contacts toward clearer, longer-term partnerships. It’s important to open new doors for Estonian companies and research institutions. But just as important is introducing Estonia’s capabilities to organisations across the DACH region. We believe this will grow into meaningful, long-term collaboration in both directions,” said Eljas.
Anu brings a strong international background and experience spanning both the private and public sectors, with a deep understanding of the Swiss business and innovation landscape. Having worked internationally and across different sectors and ecosystems, she brings an understanding of how organisations, cultures and interests need to come together for international cooperation to move beyond introductions and become tangible partnerships.
According to the World Intellectual Property Organization’s (WIPO) Global Innovation Index, Switzerland has ranked as the world’s most innovative country for 15 consecutive years and ranks first worldwide for university-industry R&D collaboration. Roughly two-thirds of the country’s R&D activity is funded by the private sector.
Companies, universities, research institutions and innovation organisations looking to build cooperation between Estonia, Switzerland or the wider DACH region can get in touch with AIRE or Adapter.
