On September 15, the Swiss Excellence Product Award 2025 was presented at Technopark Winterthur. Each year, the foundation honors innovative products and business models in the categories of SMEs and startups. This year’s winners came from the medical and agricultural sectors.
The evening was opened by National Councillor Andri Silberschmidt-Buhofer with a keynote speech on the foundations of Swiss success and the prerequisites for ensuring the country remains internationally competitive in the future. Afterwards, the annual Swiss Excellence Product Award was presented to one outstanding startup and one SME.
In the SME category, Rigitrac Traktorenbau AG impressed the jury. The family-owned company from Küssnacht am Rigi developed the world’s first series-produced electric tractor. With this pioneering achievement, Rigitrac has successfully carved out an important niche and demonstrated how Swiss companies can tap into new markets through innovation, even in traditional industries.
In the startup category, the award went to Rhovica Neuroimaging AG. The company has developed a novel EVD catheter, SoNav™, which enables the fast and safe placement of external ventricular drains – a common and often life-saving neurosurgical procedure. The technology not only improves precision and safety but also allows real-time monitoring after placement. The jury recognized the significant medical benefits as well as the clear market potential.
In addition to the two winners, three further finalists presented their innovations: Enantios, MYNERVA AG, and New Roots AG. Together, they highlighted the impressive breadth and quality of Switzerland’s innovation landscape.
The event was chaired by Dr. Heiko Visarius, President of the Jury and moderator of the evening. He emphasized the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship for Switzerland’s competitiveness.
Technopark Winterthur is proud to have hosted this year’s ceremony and extends its warm congratulations to all finalists, and especially to the two award winners.
Photos in this article were produced and provided by Peter Brandenberger – www.im-licht.ch.
