silicon valley | Open Austria

OPEN AUSTRIA’s Tech Diplomacy: Bridging Policy, Innovation & AI

Technology is transforming the world at an unprecedented pace, influencing global security, human rights, and democracy. Through Tech Diplomacy, OPEN AUSTRIA promotes collaboration between governments, technology companies and experts from civil society, science and the arts to address these challenges and ensure a human-centered approach to technology.

OPEN AUSTRIA Silicon Valley serves as a bridge between Austrian and European decision-makers and the global technology industry. We facilitate discussions to reconcile cutting-edge technologies - especially artificial intelligence (AI) - with democratic values, ethical innovation and human rights.

Leading in AI & Tech Diplomacy

Tech Diplomacy

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Leading in AI & Tech Diplomacy

As an active member of the Tech Diplomacy Network, we work with diplomats, businesses, and researchers to navigate the global implications of AI, digital governance, and emerging tech policies. Our focus is on building trust in AI systems, shaping global AI governance, and fostering responsible tech development.

Through our involvement in the Freedom Online Coalition, OPEN AUSTRIA also advocates for internet freedom, privacy and human rights in the digital age and works closely with the private sector to promote responsible AI and technology policy worldwide.

About GoUSA | Silicon Valley

At GoUSA Silicon Valley (GoUSA SV), Austrian startups profit immensely from the honest and constructive feedback they receive from VC partners, mentors and corporate development managers of top-tier tech companies, who know the ins and outs of the market. Contacts that would require months or years to cultivate from Austria happen within weeks in Silicon Valley. High-profile companies like Apple or Google become approachable once you receive personal recommendations, which are plentiful.

Now in its 14th year, the venture has already graduated over 180 companies, a fifth of which established a subsidiary in the U.S. as a result of their participation in the program. Even though every company has different goals and achievements, numerous strategic partnerships were formed and successful acquisitions took place.

What’s in it for you?

Participants in our GoUSA SV program are carefully selected together with our team of Silicon Valley judges. These chosen entrepreneurs have founded companies that we believe have what it takes to succeed: They’re working to expand into the US market, raise funding here, go public or make a strategic exit. All they need is that last push, like insightful advice, a crucial connection, or in true Silicon Valley fashion, that serendipitous meeting with just the person they were looking for to help them take their business to the next level.

This is where our GoUSA SV program shines. We put our high-value Silicon Valley ecosystem to work to connect participants to our network of mentors: experienced founders, investors, and experts in their field, oftentimes of Austrian descent, who want to dedicate time to helping Austrian entrepreneurs reach their goals in the Valley.

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In addition to a two-week long bootcamp in a group setting, you will be paired with your own dedicated mentor. Your mentor will guide you and keep track of your progress week over week, lend their support, network, and insights. They will also hold you accountable and on track for your goals to ensure that you get the most value out of the program.

Whether you’re looking for funding or just exploring growth opportunities in the US, our GoUSA team will be here to support you every step of the way.

Collaboration is at the core of what we do. We engage with U.S. and Austrian stakeholders - including policymakers, industry leaders, universities, and think tanks - to foster exchange, facilitate connections, and strengthen transatlantic cooperation.

Our Partners

Latest News & Events

Stay updated on our activities in Washington and beyond. From webinars to panel discussions and networking events, we create opportunities for Austrian stakeholders to engage with policymakers, industry experts, and researchers in the U.S. tech ecosystem.