EPFL Innovation Park to expand with a focus on co-creation

Computer image of the winners 3XN | GXN and Itten+Brechbühl.©EPFL 2022 - EPFL Innovation Park is turning 30 this year and poised to expand with a new site, called Ecotope, where startups, researchers and outside companies will be able to pool their resources in order to explore groundbreaking ideas. The Canton of Vaud is its main partner. "Ecotope will be a major plus for our canton," says Philippe Leuba, the head of Vaud's Department of the Economy, Innovation and Sports. "It will spur innovation - and thus job creation - make EPFL a more competitive school and bolster our economy in general." Some 30 years after Innovation Park opened its doors, plans are under way to double its capacity. "But it's not just about adding surface area," says Ursula Oesterle, EPFL's Vice President for Innovation and the person behind the initiative. "Today, businesses interested in innovation - whether startups or established companies - need a place where they can meet on a daily basis to share ideas. That's the kind of vibrant, stimulating environment we intend to create with Ecotope.