The uptownBasel competence center celebrated its official opening on September 8 in the presence of the cantonal government of Basel-Landschaft and 150 guests from the economy, science, and politics, according to a press release from uptownBasel AG. The development and production location on the former site of ABB Arlesheim in the canton of Basel-Landschaft is to be developed into an incubator for innovation and technology transfer over the next few years.

The first building to be finished has already been leased out fully. The European technology companies Bouygues and Vinci Energies have settled there, among others. The Straumann Group will arrive soon as well. The investors, the family of Monique and Thomas Staehelin, plan to build nine buildings in total, providing space for 50 international companies.

Investment of 500 million Swiss francs

Staehelin, who is the Chairman of the Board of Directors at uptownBasel, comments in the press release: “While Swiss industry and the international supply chain continue to come under pressure, value in the Basel region will be strengthened with the uptownBasel area. This is an issue that is close to my heart.” Thomas and Monique Staehelin are investing around 500 million Swiss francs in the project.

uptownBasel’s partners also include Basel Area Business & Innovation. Christof Klöpper, CEO of location promotion, states on uptownBasel’s website: “uptownBasel provides a significant contribution to strengthening the future-oriented ecosystem consisting of life sciences, the heath sector, and production technology. Furthermore, uptownBasel broadens the offering of attractive workplaces for startups and established companies, which is truly welcomed by Basel Area Business & Innovation.”