The Relativity Collective: How the ETH AI Center is Shaping the Next Generation of Tech Founders

A Bern-based garage automates 80% of its administrative work. A Zurich-based trust automates client onboarding. These stories of innovation are becoming more common, but where do the founders of these future-forward companies come from? The ETH AI Center is helping answer that question by co-launching the Relativity Collective.

This isn't just another university course. It's a highly selective, pan-European network designed for the next generation of ambitious founders. The initiative connects top student talent at the most formative stage of their journey, bringing together powerhouse institutions like:

The collective is built on the belief that connecting exceptional talent raises the bar for everyone. Melanie Gabriel, Co-Director of the ETH AI Center, captured its essence perfectly: “Being surrounded by peers who quietly raise your standards. Realising that what felt ambitious locally might simply be the baseline somewhere else.” This highlights a fundamental challenge in nurturing innovation—it's as much about mindset and ambition as it is about technology.

The program has already earned endorsements from major figures in the Swiss tech scene, including Johannes Reck, co-founder of ETH spin-off GetYourGuide, and Paulina Grnarova of Zurich's DeepJudge. Their support signals the importance of building these connections early.

This initiative tackles a crucial aspect of building a world-class tech ecosystem. Switzerland has incredible raw talent coming out of universities like ETH. However, to compete globally, that talent needs exposure to broader perspectives and higher benchmarks of ambition. By connecting our best students with their peers across Europe, the Relativity Collective helps foster a global mindset from day one, encouraging them to build scalable, impactful companies.

This long-term commitment to nurturing tech leaders is what will fuel the continued growth of the Swiss market. A rising tide of ambition truly lifts all boats, creating more opportunities for innovation across the board.