The ETH Learning Factory Zug, a collaborative initiative at Tech Cluster Zug, will bring together students from ETH Zurich, apprentices, professionals, and researchers to tackle practical industrial and societal challenges. Supported by ETH Zurich, the Canton of Zug, the City of Zug, and nine local companies, this project aims to strengthen the connection between academic and vocational education, enhancing Switzerland's dual education system. It seeks to explore how ideas evolve into prototypes and the benefits of interdisciplinary learning for diverse participants.
Activities at the facility will concentrate on industrial automation and digitalization, sustainable systems, and digital learning. ETH Zurich will manage the operations, focusing on teaching and research with support from approximately 20 full-time positions on site. The total cost for the initial ten-year phase is around CHF 110 million, with the Canton of Zug contributing CHF 55 million and the City of Zug CHF 27.5 million. Additional funding comes from industry partners and in-kind contributions from ETH Zurich through faculty teaching, as detailed in funding agreements available on the company's website at https://www.techclusterzug.ch.
The Canton of Zug will establish two funding agreements: one with Tech Cluster Zug (Urban Assets Zug AG) for infrastructure and use, and another with ETH Zurich and the ETH Zurich Foundation for operations and development. Similarly, the City of Zug will enter into a funding agreement with ETH Zurich and the ETH Zurich Foundation for operations, development, and equipment. All agreements have a ten-year term, with options for termination after five years if key milestones are not achieved, ensuring a long-term commitment to the project's objectives.
For the region and economy, the ETH Learning Factory Zug creates a convergence point for knowledge, practice, and innovation. Companies gain access to practice-oriented, research-based ideas and qualified talent, while apprentices and students acquire hands-on experience with real industrial projects. This initiative introduces a new model for talent development and co-education, offering lasting benefits for education, research, and the local economy. It fosters a collaborative ecosystem for companies around Tech Cluster Zug, boosting innovation potential and supporting economic growth.
This forward-looking project represents a long-term investment in education and innovation for all partners, including the Canton of Zug, the City of Zug, ETH Zurich, and participating companies. It lays the groundwork for preparing future generations to address technological, social, and economic challenges. Parliamentary processes, including a popular ballot vote in the City of Zug, are expected to conclude by the end of this year. Following approvals, conversion could begin in 2027, with occupancy possible during 2029, marking a pivotal step in advancing educational practices and industrial collaboration.
