The Vienna Institute for Global Studies (VIGS Institute) successfully hosted its first seminar, bringing together an esteemed cohort of researchers, investors, founders, and business leaders from over 15 countries, including Austria, Costa Rica, Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands, UK, Mexico, Australia, Hungary, Israel, South Korea, USA. Held at the WeXelerate Accelerator in the heart of Vienna, this groundbreaking event marked the beginning of a collaborative effort to address global challenges through interdisciplinary research and innovation.
The seminar, spanning from July 14 to July 19, aimed to set the research direction for the newly established VIGS Institute. The event featured a dynamic mix of keynote speeches, panel discussions, and working groups, focusing on entrepreneurship, geopolitics, and well-being. Participants emphasized the importance of integrating diverse competencies, real-world applications, and the power of global perspectives.
Key Highlights:
- Diverse Competences and Real-World Application: The VIGS project integrates various competencies, including business, research, and policy-making. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that research is grounded in real business experiences, enhancing its relevance and impact.
- Power of Diversity: The seminar underscored the value of diversity, with participants from different backgrounds contributing to the project’s uniqueness and dynamic nature.
- Bridging Academia and Practice: A core focus of the VIGS Institute is fostering collaboration between academic researchers and practitioners, breaking down silos to facilitate mutual learning and innovation.
- Global Perspective: The event brought together professionals from around the world, fostering mutual inspiration and idea exchange. This global network aims to bridge Central European collaboration with partners the United States, the EU, Israel and beyond.
- Community and Networking: Building and maintaining a diverse community and strong network was highlighted as crucial for the Institute’s success.
- Innovation and Future Planning: The seminar set the foundation for creating a dynamic hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in Central Europe, with a long-term vision for growth and impact.
- Unique Think Tank Structure: The VIGS Institute’s think tank structure was praised for its ability to bring together global experts for meaningful discussions and collaboration.
- Learning and Exposure: Participants appreciated the learning opportunities and exposure to Central European culture, enriching their professional and personal experiences.
Feedback from Participants:
Participants expressed high praise for the seminar’s structure and content. One participant remarked, “The VIGS Institute seminar has been an incredible opportunity to exchange ideas and collaborate with thought leaders from around the world. The diversity of perspectives and the focus on practical implementation of research have been particularly valuable.”
Another attendee highlighted the seminar’s role in bridging academia and practice, stating, “The collaboration between researchers and practitioners has been a game-changer. It’s refreshing to see theoretical knowledge being translated into real-world applications.”
Future Outlook:
The VIGS Institute aims to continue building on the momentum generated by this inaugural seminar. Plans are already underway for future events, with a focus on enhancing communication and collaboration across disciplines. The Institute is committed to maintaining its high standards of objectivity, scholarship, and integrity, addressing both social and environmental sustainability challenges.
About the VIGS Institute:
The Vienna Institute for Global Studies (VIGS Institute) is a nonpartisan, non-ideological research institute dedicated to solving global problems in the 21st century. Led by renowned economist Dr. Zoltan Acs, the Institute brings together a vast network of scholars, entrepreneurs, and policy experts to drive innovation and research across multiple disciplines in Central Europe.
