The ETH Learning Factory Zug, a new collaborative learning and research center, is set to be established at Tech Cluster Zug in Switzerland, with operations planned to begin by 2029. This initiative will bring together students from ETH Zurich, apprentices, professionals, and researchers to address real-world industrial and societal challenges, deliberately connecting academic and vocational education to further develop Switzerland's dual education system.
The project is supported by ETH Zurich, the Canton of Zug, the City of Zug, and nine companies based in Zug. The Government Council of the Canton of Zug and the City Council of Zug have committed to participating in the first phase. A new learning and working environment will be created on the premises of Tech Cluster Zug AG, featuring modern learning spaces, workshops, digital learning environments, and areas for interdisciplinary collaboration.
Activities at the Learning Factory will focus on industrial automation and digitalization, sustainable systems, and digital learning. ETH Zurich will operate the facility and be responsible for teaching and research, supported by approximately 20 full-time positions on site. The total cost of the first phase over ten years amounts to approximately CHF 110 million, with the Canton of Zug contributing CHF 55 million and the City of Zug CHF 27.5 million. Additional funding will come from industry partners and contributions in kind from ETH Zurich through faculty teaching activities.
The Canton of Zug will enter into two funding agreements: one with Tech Cluster Zug covering infrastructure and use, and one with ETH Zurich and the ETH Zurich Foundation covering operations and further development. The City of Zug will also conclude a funding agreement with ETH Zurich and the ETH Zurich Foundation for operations, development, and equipment. All agreements are set for a ten-year term, with termination options after five years if key milestones are not achieved.
This project creates significant value for the region and economy by establishing a hub where knowledge, practice, and innovation converge directly. Companies benefit from practice-oriented, research-based ideas and access to qualified talent, while apprentices and students gain hands-on experience working on real industrial projects. For the Canton and City of Zug, it opens up a new form of talent development and co-education with long-term benefits for education, research, and the economy. For companies around Tech Cluster Zug, it creates potential for a collaborative ecosystem.
Parliamentary processes, including a popular ballot vote in the City of Zug, are expected to be completed by the end of this year. Following approval by the Cantonal and City Parliaments and by voters in the City of Zug, the conversion project could start in 2027, with occupation of the building possible during 2029.
