Preamble
Austria has the potential to become a leading hub for Distributed Ledger Technologies (DLT) and digital assets. To strengthen innovation and secure long-term competitiveness, a clear and ambitious strategy is required. With this DLT Initiative, we introduce concrete measures that place education, research, and application at the center. Our goal is to establish Austria as a premier innovation hub for DLT and blockchain technology in Europe.
1. Education Initiative for DLT & Digital Assets
- Introduction of DLT and blockchain courses in schools and universities as part of a broader digital curriculum.
- Promotion of professional development programs for specialists in blockchain, digital assets, and smart contracts.
- Establishment of competence centers at universities to ensure practical education and applied research.
- Development of Open Educational Resources (OER) for digital financial literacy and blockchain technologies.
- Creation of a state-funded “DLT Education Fund” to support innovative educational projects.
2. Strengthening Research & Technology Development
- Establishment of an “Austrian Blockchain Excellence Center” for interdisciplinary research focusing on legal, technical, and economic aspects of DLT.
- Promotion of public-private partnerships for the development of new blockchain applications and protocols.
- Implementation of a national funding program for startups and research institutions in the field of blockchain and digital assets.
- Integration of DLT into government research projects to accelerate knowledge transfer to the economy.
- Tax incentives for blockchain startups and the creation of a national innovation fund to support future technologies.
3. Promotion of Practical Blockchain Applications
- Introduction of blockchain-based identity and administrative services (E-Government 3.0).
- Utilization of DLT for digital traceability in supply chains, healthcare, and the energy sector.
- Support for Austrian businesses in implementing blockchain technologies through government funding programs.
- Promotion of tokenized capital markets and digital financing models for SMEs.
- Expansion of digital infrastructure to position Austria among the top 10 most innovative locations in Europe.
- Application of blockchain technology in the public sector to enhance transparency in tax spending and encourage greater citizen engagement.
4. International Positioning & Location Promotion
- Positioning Austria as a leading blockchain and digital asset hub within the EU.
- Attractive tax incentives for blockchain enterprises and digital financial innovations.
- Development of an international Web3 Hub Austria, serving as a networking platform for research, business, and policy stakeholders.
- Promotion of international cooperation with technology leaders and innovation centers.
- Establishment of a dedicated DLT Ministry with a budget and action plan to ensure long-term industry support.
This DLT Initiative represents a firm commitment from the Austrian government to foster blockchain and digital assets. Through targeted measures in education, research, regulation, and application, we will establish the necessary framework for a thriving digital future and secure Austria’s position as a leader in European innovation.