Zoltan J. Acs is an internationally recognized economist specializing in entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic development. As Director of the Vienna Institute for Global Studies (VIGS), he leads interdisciplinary research on global economic transformation and inclusive growth. He is also Professor Emeritus at George Mason University and has held visiting appointments at institutions including Imperial College Business School and the London School of Economics.
Acs is the founder of the Global Entrepreneurship and Development Institute (GEDI) and is widely known for the Knowledge Spillover Theory of Entrepreneurship, which connects innovation systems to new venture creation. Over his career, he has advised governments and international organizations on building entrepreneurial ecosystems to drive sustainable prosperity. His research continues to influence both academic thought and policy worldwide.