THE VOICE OF SWISS STARTUPS

Scaleups

Join our Scaleup Community

From Traction to Transformation

Scaleups are companies that have moved beyond the startup phase and are now focused on accelerating growth, expanding internationally, and building structured, scalable operations. They’ve already validated their business model and now face new challenges—hiring at scale, entering new markets, and securing larger rounds of funding. What sets them apart is their proven traction, strategic focus, and growing economic impact.

SSA helps scaleups tackle these challenges with focused political advocacy, curated networking opportunities for founders and leadership teams, and peer-led learning opportunities.

Become a Scaleup Member

Our Definition of a Scaleup

A clear definition is essential – not just for classification, but for targeted support

As a founder, you know when things shift. You’ve found product-market fit, your team is growing fast, and the stakes are higher than ever. But while “scaleup” is used everywhere, it’s rarely defined in a way that reflects your reality. Without a clear definition, identifying and supporting high-growth ventures becomes a guessing game. That’s why the Swiss Startup Association created a definition tailored to the Swiss ecosystem and aligned with global standards. It centers on five key traits: strong revenue growth, expanding teams, advanced funding stages, international presence, and evolving leadership.

Read the complete Scaleup definition on our blog

Revenue: 8–10 million CHF

This revenue stage signals product-market fit. Founder-led sales no longer scale, requiring structured go-to-market strategies, specialized teams, and repeatable processes.

Number of Employees: 80–100 full-time employees

With 80 to 100 employees, informal communication breaks down. Leadership must add management layers, clear processes, and accountability to maintain alignment.

Funding Stage: Series B or later OR cumulative venture funding of 30+ million CHF

In this stage, companies must shift to disciplined planning and long-term strategy while operating under closer investor scrutiny.

Internationalization

Geographical expansion brings cultural, legal, and operational hurdles. Scaleups must align global teams, localize effectively, and ensure compliance through careful planning.

Leadership Team

As scaleups grow, they need experienced external leaders. Transitioning from founder-led decisions to professional leadership requires alignment, accountability, and strong support systems.

Ready to take your startup to the next level?

Scaleup Membership

Join our Scaleup Membership to grow your business and strengthen the ecosystem. Gain access to exclusive C-level events, speaking opportunities, and a powerful network of peers navigating hypergrowth.

All benefits listed for SSA Premium members (e.g. company profile on the SSA website, exclusive offers, free legal advice, event discounts, and featured exposure on SSA channels). Full benefit list is available here.
Exclusive access to dedicated scaleup events
Access for C-level/Management team of scaleups to relevant events (e.g. CRO dinners)
Potential opportunity to participate as a guest speaker in an SSA event (Founders Day, Academy, Webinar, etc.)

Pascal Bieri Co-Founder of Planted

A huge shoutout to the incredible SSA team. Your dedication to fostering collaboration and innovation in the startup community is great - we couldn't do it without you bringing all of us together to learn and grow!

Péter Fankhauser CEO and CO-Founder ANYbotics

The SSA serves as a united voice, advocating for the needs and interests of startups in political and policy discussions. Their efforts contribute to creating a favourable environment for Swiss startups.

Laura Matter Founder noii.ch

"No matter what problem I reach out to them with, the Swiss Startup Association always has a contact, a free workshop, or simply a motivational injection. Especially for people like me who are still inexperienced as entrepreneurs, their support is worth its weight in gold!"

Michael Kubli Kinastic AG

"It is important that Swiss startups also have a voice in politics and that they can stick together as well as benefit from each other. The SSA makes this possible and that is why I am a member myself."

Julian Liniger CEO & Co-Founder of Relai

It makes me feel connected to the Swiss startup (founders) ecosystem and helps me build my network and to exchange experiences with startup peers.

Pascal Brunner vatorex

"The Swiss Startup Association is the nationwide voice of entrepreneurs. As startups can only move the ecosystem together, we joined the SSA."