| Startup Thailand | TH |
The UK and Austria: More Than Destinations,
They’re Gateways for Thai Startups to the Global Market
The startup world today is no longer confined to Silicon Valley—it has spread to every corner of the globe. In response, the “Global Startup Hub: Gateway to Europe” event, organized by the National Innovation Agency (NIA), served as a crucial entry point for Thai startups looking to establish a concrete presence in the European market. By leveraging strong networks in the UK and Austria—two innovation hubs connected to a European market of over 450 million people—the NIA aims to help Thai startups gain in-depth knowledge of actionable trends, technologies, and business opportunities while building relationships with leading partners for success on the international stage.
The UK: A Breeding Ground for Startups and a Launchpad to Europe
“The UK is ready in every dimension to support international startups.” This message of confidence was reinforced by Germaine Dowling, Senior Technology Advisor at the British Embassy Bangkok. She provided detailed insights into eight key industries posed for significant growth over the next decade, which the UK government is actively prioritizing: Creative Industries, Advanced Manufacturing, Digital and Technology, Financial Services, Clean Energy, Life Sciences, Defence, and Professional and Business Services.
Additionally, six core technologies are a national strategic focus, supported by substantial investment, including an annual R&D budget of over £22.6 billion. These technologies are Advanced Connectivity, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cybersecurity, Engineering Biology, Quantum Technologies, and Semiconductors. Beyond national strategy, the UK supports global startup ecosystems through programs like the Global Entrepreneur Program (GEP). Startups that join the GEP can receive an Innovator Founders Visa, coaching from a Dealmaker, and opportunities to connect with global clients.
A notable success story is Amity Solutions, a Thai AI software firm under the Amity Group. They leveraged the UK’s network to partner with Costa Coffee and Turing, a leading AI company and global provider of Intelligent Talent Cloud. The UK also hosts events like London Tech Week and AI Week, which provide Thai startups with a platform to pitch directly to VCs and key policymakers. The UK is not just a market; it’s a global training ground that offers ambitious startups the chance to compete and grow on an international stage.
Grow Strong in Vienna: A City of Creativity and Business Development
While many know Vienna, the capital of Austria, for its history and culture, the Global Startup Hub event showcased another side of the city: one of Europe’s most robust startup ecosystems. Vienna is home to over 1,700 startups, more than 50 co-working spaces, top universities, and dedicated support agencies. These include the Austrian Business Agency (ABA), the main point of contact for foreign startups entering the Austrian market, and the Vienna Business Agency (VBA), which attracts new businesses and promotes Vienna as a startup hub.
A key event is the annual “ViennaUP” festival, one of the largest startup festivals in the region. It offers Thai startups a chance to participate in pitching sessions, networking events, and workshops through the “Vienna Startup Package”. Organized by the Vienna Business Agency, this program allows international startups to immerse themselves in Vienna’s ecosystem and explore business opportunities in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Participants receive business coaching, peer-to-peer learning, and the chance to meet global investors. Success stories that have emerged from this supportive ecosystem include Bitpanda (a crypto platform), GoStudent (an online tutoring platform), and Refurbed (a refurbished smartphone platform).
Opportunity Awaits Those Who “Start First”
The “Global Startup Hub: Gateway to Europe” event isn’t an end—it’s the starting line for Thai startups to truly build a new chapter on the global stage.
The UK is ready to be more than a market; it’s a global training ground. With its national R&D strategy and massive investments, it provides the capital and networks needed to drive rapid startup growth. Meanwhile, Austria is a crucial gateway to Europe, offering a strong innovation ecosystem and an excellent quality of life. Both countries serve as comprehensive bases from which you can launch your assault on the larger European market.
Taking a small step out of your comfort zone today could lead to the greatest change in your business history. If you’re ready, a world of boundless opportunities is waiting for you.
