KEY SECTORS & NICHE SOLUTIONS
Advanced automotive industry
241
COMPANIES IN 2020
15.000
EMPLOYEES IN 2020
3.5 bn €
REVENUES IN 2020
Every single car in the world has at least one component made in Slovenia.
- long industrial tradition
- skilled and innovative workforce
- niche specialization
- high quality solutions at competitive prices
- industry 4.0 principles
- compliance with leading standards
- high-end titanium exhaust systems for motorcycles
- diesel cold-start systems for internal combustion engines
- gas springs for the automotive industry
- testing market for new operating vehicle systems
- development and supply of electrical components and software for smart, autonomous, and electrical vehicles
- production of plastic and metal components, including car bodies
Slovenia’s automotive industry is a flexible network of highly specialized niche players. Innovative SMEs are developing systems and components ranging from power drives for electric and hybrid cars to exhaust systems used in GP motorcycles and sport cars. The industry includes everything from component suppliers to end-product manufacturers, including trailers, motorhomes, small cars, and even sport supercars. With several leading players in areas like electromotors and mechatronics, the Slovenian automotive industry can provide sophisticated components and unique solutions like high-torque in-wheel electric drive systems and AI based real traffic simulation solutions.
Photo: Elaphe
Mobility
A pioneer in the field of electric and hybrid powered airplanes.
- niche pioneers in several important areas of future forms of mobility
- robust R&D infrastructure tightly integrated into global research networks
- numerous local suppliers and developers of electrical and mechatronic components
- vivid start-up ecosystem
- qualified, motivated, and multilingual workforce with high level of engineering skills
- excellent testing ground
- the first electric airplane with an EASA (The EU’s Aviation Safety Agency) type certification – a milestone in the history of aviation
- world’s first four seat passenger aircraft powered by hydrogen fuel cell propulsion
- world’s first serially produced electric airplane
- the first electric engine certified by EASA for use in general aviation
- world’s first fully electric hydrofoil
- a leading developer of fixed wing unmanned aerial systems for special and heavy endurance purposes
- tech leaders in in-wheel electric motors
- the production of aluminum and plastic components for electric vehicles
- high-tech drive systems based on multi-drive and integral control platforms
- development and manufacturing of electric airplanes
- fixed wing unmanned aerial systems for high endurance surveying, remote sensing, and security
- electric drives for compressors in electric vehicles
- power systems for electric bikes
- IT solutions for mobility
- testing ground for new solutions and technologies
- interactive charging stations for electric vehicles
- in-wheel motors for electric vehicles
- components and systems for electric vehicles
- electric bike and scooter motors
- electric propulsion systems for boats
- leading technologies for electric and hydrogen cell powered airplanes
- sensor systems and measurement technologies
Slovenia is known for its high-tech products and services and its distinct competitive advantage in the mobility sector. The world’s first serially produced and fully certified electric airplane is made by a Slovenian company. Renault car plant located in Slovenia is also producing electric cars and relies on many local suppliers for components for electric and hybrid cars. Slovenian companies are the leading producers of certain types of electromotors and their key components. They have developed unique solutions, like in-wheel electric drive systems, or lightweight motors for electric planes. Innovative SMEs also offer smart interactive charging stations for e-cars, VR and AR based simulation tech used in vehicle testing, and measurement solutions for vehicle development.
With an exceptional talent pool, advanced research and development, stunning design and revolutionary manufacturing, Slovenian companies offer sophisticated solutions.
Photo: Pipistrel
Information and communication technologies
3.660
COMPANIES IN 2020
23.000
EMPLOYEES IN 2020
4,6 bn €
REVENUES IN 2020
First cryptocurrency exchange with an official license to operate within the EU was formed by Slovenians.
- major blockchain development hub
- leading research institutions in AI
- excellent testing ground
- vibrant start-up scene
- talented, multilingual, and tech-savvy employees
- long track record in IT development
- high-end water-cooling systems for computers
- the first EU member with a national blockchain test infrastructure (SI-Chain)
- the World’s first cryptocurrency exchange with an official license to operate within the EU
- control software for proton cancer therapy systems
- UNESCO’s International Research Centre for Artificial Intelligence
- IoT network solutions
- video conference platforms development
- cryptocurrency mining platforms
- enterprise asset management systems
- fraud prevention software systems
- advanced measurement technologies
- digitalization of health care, public administration, and business
- data acquisition and analysis systems
- data mining and AI based semantic analysis algorithms
Artificial intelligence and blockchain technologies count among the most disruptive technologies of our time. Slovenia is a prolific player in both areas. The Jozef Stefan Institute, the leading national scientific institution, has played a pioneering role in the development of artificial intelligence and counts among the top AI research facilities on the planet. Slovenia, with its tech savvy and well-educated citizens, is home to a bustling start-up ecosystem, particularly focused on blockchain technology. Slovenia’s digital landscape also features a wide network of diverse niche-oriented companies, ranging from software for advanced measurement systems, popular apps, IoT solutions for smart homes and cities, to blockbuster video games. Slovenia’s ICT SMEs enjoy an excellent track record, in line with the nation’s “Green, Creative and Smart” development strategy.
Electrical and electronics
850
COMPANIES IN 2020
29.100
EMPLOYEES IN 2020
4,9 bn €
REVENUES IN 2020
A reliable partner of the automotive industry and poised for the future.
- educated and highly skilled workforce
- high operating efficiency
- continuing investment in research and development
- ability to identify market niches
- design, development, and engineering of cutting-edge products
- integration in local and global supply chains
- commutators
- electro motors for vacuum cleaners
- medical laser devices
- fuses, switches, and circuit breakers
- advanced measurement devices
- high level of local expertise
- technologies for digital and green transformation
- development of electronic components for future mobility
- autonomous drive system development
- mechatronic solutions
Fast growth and high value-added are two of the main characteristics of the Slovenian electro and electronics industry. In fact, the industry is the fastest growing manufacturing branch in Slovenia. This was made possible by a high standard of quality, strong R&D, and constant innovation integrated into its processes. Founded on a strong tradition, this sector is turning into one of the key drivers towards a greener and digital future, providing essential components for e-mobility, smart grids, smart homes, and cities.
The vast majority of the sales are generated by companies in the electro industry and manufacturing of home appliances, electro motors, transformers, and equipment for power grids, batteries, cables, pumps, heating and cooling equipment, and various mechatronic components.
Slovenian electronics companies are mostly highly specialized SMEs with leading products in their respective niches in the production of circuit boards, electronic components, optronic and laser devices, telecommunication systems, and measurement equipment.
Photo: SPIRIT Slovenia
Medicine and pharmacy
1.500
COMPANIES IN 2020
15.000
EMPLOYEES IN 2020
3,16 bn €
REVENUES IN 2020
Pioneers in medical laser technology
- strong basic and applied research infrastructure
- top-notch biotech research
- high quality products and solutions
- long standing tradition and skilled workforce
- geostrategic position and modern logistics infrastructure
- internationally integrated R&D network
- medical laser systems
- control systems for particle therapy in cancer treatment
- apitherapy methods and products
- analysis and production processes of bacteriophages
- production and research of biopharmaceuticals
- digitalization of lab processes
- gene and cell therapy development
- therapeutic and diagnostic photonics
- wide range of innovative medical equipment products
- measurement devices and methods
It is the most R&D intensive industry and features some of Slovenia’s best performing companies. It is one of the fastest growing and the second highest exporting sector. In relative terms (production per capita), Slovenia is one of the five largest drug manufacturing nations in Europe.
Slovenian medical equipment producers were pioneers in the use of laser technologies and continue to keep the leading position in the field. Companies in Slovenia also produce high-end equipment for physiotherapy, rehabilitation, and aesthetic medicine and world’s best laser medical devices. They develop systems for stem cell isolation and bacteriophages, high quality software for laboratory instrument manufacturers, and control and measurement systems used in radiation therapy. The production of some of the most advanced medicines, like COVID-19 vaccines, was made possible by the large biomolecules’ purification technology developed by a Slovenian biotech SME.
Photo: Krka
Metal processing and machinery
2.650
COMPANIES IN 2020
56.700
EMPLOYEES IN 2020
7,7 bn €
REVENUES IN 2020
Leading manufacturers of industrial knives for most demanding applications.
The turbines made in Slovenia are used in hydroelectric power plants all over the world.
- high quality products and solutions at competitive prices
- compliance with most demanding standards
- skilled and innovative workforce
- long industrial tradition
- geostrategic position and highly developed logistics
- development in close cooperation with partners
- R&D and innovation
- tailor-made small series products
- high quality products and solutions at competitive prices
- compliance with most demanding standards
- skilled and innovative workforce
- long industrial tradition
- geostrategic position and highly developed logistics
- development in close cooperation with partners
- R&D and innovation
- tailor-made small series products
- industrial knives
- logging winches
- crankshaft processing machines
- premium grade super hardened
- and resistant steels
- lever arch mechanisms for office
- folders
- metal structures and propulsion elements
- metal matrix composites
- aluminum alloys and products
- sustainable and certified production processes
- material processing machinery
- agricultural and forestry machinery
- turnkey complete production lines
- elements for industry 4.0 production
Metal processing is one of the fastest developing sectors of industry in Slovenia with a high growth of sales and value added. Products of Slovenia’s steelmakers are intended for the most demanding uses in aerospace, oil industry, and machine production. Apart from high quality steels and aluminum in various forms, the industry also offers a wide array of metal products. The forged precision parts made in Slovenia are used by the top car manufacturers. Slovenian made prefabricated metal buildings, metal facades and roofs are present all over the world. Thermoplastic injection molding tools, die casting and tools for transforming sheet metal, developed by Slovenian companies are used by some of the leading global automotive companies. Slovenia’s companies are among the leaders in specialized forestry equipment like logging cranes and forestry winches especially.
The metal processing industry is, together with machinery production, among Slovenia’s top exporting sectors and serves as a backbone to the automotive field, the nation’s most important exporting industry.
Photo: SPIRIT Slovenia
Woodworking and furniture
3.300
COMPANIES IN 2020
12.900
EMPLOYEES IN 2020
1,4 bn €
REVENUES IN 2020
From traditional woodenware to top design
- supply of top-quality wood
- long tradition in woodworking
- sustainable and environmentally friendly material
- top-notch local design using wood
- advanced technologies in niche areas
- diverse and innovative use of wood
- low energy and passive prefabricated buildings
- smart windows and doors
- composite and cross-laminated timber technologies
- sustainable construction technologies
- wood coatings and other products based on liquified wood
- nanocellulose
- advanced biomass-based materials
Slovenia has not only got rich sources of wood and long tradition in woodenware but it has also produced numerous innovative design products and research-oriented initiatives. The Slovenians are aware that wood is healthy, clean, CO2 neutral, renewable – and as such a top material with huge future potential. The results are top-quality products in selected niches, such as top quality hotel furniture, exclusive small series furniture, wooden elements for the caravanning and boatbuilding industries, products specifically designed for large retailer networks, and the manufacture of doors and windows.
Slovenia’s prefabricated wooden buildings could be found in high-end locations in European cities from Vienna to London. The environmentally friendly and healthy natural material is often combined with modern IT solutions to create low emission and low energy houses. With a strong heritage, vast forests and availability of top-quality local timber, Slovenian woodworking industry seems poised to play an increasingly important role.
Photo: Miha Bratina
Food and Beverages
4.600
COMPANIES IN 2020
20.500
EMPLOYEES IN 2020
2,7 bn €
REVENUES IN 2020
Number 1 beekeeping nation
Wines are among the best in the world
- excellent natural conditions for organic farming
- high-quality local ingredients
- top-level of expertise
- tradition as a basis for healthy food products and inspirational cuisine
- rigorous quality control and compliance with high standards
- boutique small-scale production focused on the highest quality
- leading in expertise in beekeeping
- leading global pâté producer
- eggs and poultry with enhanced Omega-3 fat content producers
- premium quality ice cream from original recipes
- boutique wine production
- high-quality fruit juices and mineral waters
- honey products
- healthy food
- organic farming
- top-quality poultry
The local cuisine with its international-award-winning chefs and restaurants has become one of Slovenia’s main tourist attractions: in 2021 Slovenia was the European Region of Gastronomy. The basis for the country’s cuisine is the top-quality local production of foods and beverages. “Slovenia is a unique destination with exceptional natural features and a strong sustainable commitment allowing the production of the highest quality ingredients”, wrote the Michelin guide a few years back. Food and beverage production mostly relies on small-scale farming which often uses organic methods. Emphasis is increasingly being put on health, safety, and sustainability.
The drive to sustainability and health is backed by strict regulations and quality control across the entire food production chain. This applies to all areas – yet regulation is particularly stringent in honey production, where Slovenia is the global leader in expertise and quality. Other important areas of Slovenia’s food and beverages industry (including close to 2,000 agricultural and fishing companies) are bakery products, meat products, dairies, fruit and fruit products, ice cream, non-alcoholic beverages, and beer. And lastly: wine. Slovenia benefits from excellent natural conditions for wine growing and produces top-class wines.
www.slovenia.info | Photo: Ciril Jazbec
STRATEGIC RESEARCH AND INNOVATION PARTNERSHIPS
Strategic Research and Innovation Partnerships (SRIPs) present the priority areas where Slovenia has the innovation potential to create a competitive advantage for positioning itself in global markets, and thus to strengthen its visibility. SRIPs are long-term partnerships between business, research and knowledge institutions, the State and regional and local structures, as well as integrators, users and the non-governmental sphere.
Sustainable tourism (SRIPT)
The Strategic Research and Innovation Partnership – Sustainable Tourism (SRIPT) contributes to the development of Slovenian sustainable tourism with the objectives of increasing investment in research and development, promoting innovation in tourism, revitalising and achieving higher added value in the tourism industry.
www.slovenia.info | Photo: Domen Grgl
Mobility (SRIP ACS+)
Strategic Research and Innovation Partnership in Mobility (SRIP ACS+) lays the foundations and defines the directions for the development of the Slovenian economy in the field of mobility in a strong link with science and education as well as with the state institutions. It is oriented towards making an important contribution to the implementation of Slovenia as a reference country for green mobility in Europe and globally. It joins two association members, Business interest association ACS Automotive cluster of Slovenia and Transport Association at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia.
Photo: Elaphe
SRIP Circular Economy
The main objective of the Strategic Research and Innovation Partnership – Networks for the transition into circular economy is to build new value chains to enter global markets, with a focus on guiding members towards the co-development of technologies and industrial processes for the production of high quality products, while reducing resource consumption, switching to renewables, reducing unused waste and contributing towards a carbon-neutral economy. It focuses on six key areas: sustainable energy, biomass and alternative raw materials, secondary raw materials, functional materials, processes and technologies and circular business models.
Photo: Alex Stokel
Factories of the Future
The objective of the Strategic Research and Innovation Partnership of the Factories of the Future (SRIP TOP) is to create an open and friendly environment for the development of innovations that will be breakthrough and prospective and will go beyond the national framework. SRIP TOP focuses on key research areas: robot systems and components, intelligent management systems for future factories, smart mechatronic tools, intelligent laser systems, smart plasma systems, advanced sensors, new materials, smart factory, and on key technologies, such as robotics, management technologies, nanotechnology, photonics, plasma technology, modern technology for materials, which it provides also for other SRIPs.
Materials as end Products
The objective of the Strategic Research and Innovation Partnership of the Factories of the Future (SRIP TOP) is to create an open and friendly environment for the development of innovations that will be breakthrough and prospective and will go beyond the national framework. SRIP TOP focuses on key research areas: robot systems and components, intelligent management systems for future factories, smart mechatronic tools, intelligent laser systems, smart plasma systems, advanced sensors, new materials, smart factory, and on key technologies, such as robotics, management technologies, nanotechnology, photonics, plasma technology, modern technology for materials, which it provides also for other SRIPs.
Photo: Litostroj
Sustainable Food Production
Strategic Research and Innovation partnership for Sustainable Food Production (SRIP HRANA) is a central national hub for networking and collaboration between ambitious and development-oriented stakeholders in agriculture, food and other related sectors. It has developed into a dynamic community of agriculture holdings, companies, cooperatives, research institutions, investors and other interested parties, whose main interests are focused on improvement of research and development activities in the companies for the purpose of agri-food sector development.
www.slovenia.info | Photo: Ciril Jazbec
Smart Buildings and the Home with Wood Chain
The Strategic Development and Innovation Partnership Smart Buildings and the Home with Wood Chain (SRIP PSiDL) brings together members working in the broad field of smart and sustainable buildings, covering building products, wood and wood-based materials, components, devices and systems, both for building installation and for building fit-out, as well as solutions for smart building management and related advanced smart neighbourhood infrastructure. The vision of the SRIP is to establish a lasting partnership that will enable integrated solutions to build the smart, sustainable, healthy, environmentally and user friendly, connected and energy self-sufficient living and working environments of the future.
Photo: Marles
Health – Medicine
SRIP Health – Medicine organised into effective value chains and establishing the right support services for knowledge transfer, intellectual property protection and recognition of Slovenia as a strong global medical/healthcare brand, enables creation of a stimulating innovation environment for the health and medicine field. Such environment has positive impact on healthy and active ageing of the population, and realisation of half a billion euros worth of additional export potential.
Photo: Cosylab & Leo Cancer Care
Smart Cities and Communities
The main objective of the Smart Cities and Communities partnership (SRIP PMiS) is to establish a globally recognised ecosystem of partners, permanently synergistically enhancing and linking their competence, as well as offering adequate capacities for R&D, production and marketing of globally competitive innovative high-tech solutions in all aspects of Smart cities and communities. The interconnections of different fields, relations with the ICT horizontal network and connectivity to other strategic development partnerships make the SRIP Smart Cities and Communities verticals a significant factor. It focuses on key areas: health, energy and ulities, mobility, transport and logistics, security, smart city ecosystem, urban life equality and covers six key technological fields: cybersecurity, digital transformation, GIS-T, HPC and big data, IoS, IoT.
MEET YOUR INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES
There are numerous reasons why it is smart to invest in Slovenia. Not only has it been recognized as one of the world’s most sustainable countries, but its high quality of life also makes Slovenia a perfect country to live and work in.
www.slovenia.info | Photo: Ciril Jazbec
Photo: Alexander Papec
SLOVENIA – MAKE THE MOST OF IT!
Ministry of Economic Development and Technology
Kotnikova 5 | SI-1000 Ljubljana
+386 1 400 33 11 | gp.mgrt@gov.si
SPIRIT Slovenia Business Development Agency
Verovškova 60, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
+386 1 5891 870 | info@sloveniabusiness.eu