University of St.Gallen

Investment thesis

The University of St.Gallen (HSG) exists to advance research and education in business administration, economics, law, and social sciences, while actively transferring knowledge to the corporate and public sectors through dedicated entrepreneurship units.

• Strategic agenda: Digital transformation and AI — HSG positions AI and digitalisation as central to its research and teaching, with specific focus on AI agents, behavioural economics, and sustainable finance [1].
• Strategic agenda: Sustainability and circular economy — The university runs the Circular Lab and focuses on consumer spending, sustainable finance, and ESG integration in business models [1].
• Strategic agenda: Behavioural and empirical research — HSG leverages novel data sources (e.g., satellite data) and empirical methods to study market behaviour and economic trends [1].
• Strategic agenda: Executive and corporate education — Beyond traditional degrees, HSG provides Executive MBA, Board Programmes, and custom corporate education, bridging academia and industry practice [1].

Credibility: The university’s own website details its schools, research units (Circular Lab, GSERM), and transfer services (HSG Entrepreneurship), confirming its dual role as a research institution and an innovation partner.

Value add

• Network access — HSG connects applicants to a global alumni network, corporate partners, and policy leaders through events and programmes [1].
• Research facilities — Access to specialized units like the Circular Lab and GSERM for empirical and sustainability-focused research [1].
• Credibility and visibility — Association with HSG enhances institutional reputation, supported by rankings, accreditations, and public symposia [1].
• Follow-on opportunities — Engagement through transfer services or education can lead to long-term partnerships, consulting contracts, or collaborative research [1].

Fit verdict: HSG is best suited for organizations seeking knowledge transfer, executive education, or research collaboration rather than direct financial grants.

Founder diligence script:

• Does my project align with HSG’s research focus on digital transformation, sustainability, or behavioural economics?
• Am I prepared to engage through non-financial channels (education, consulting, research partnership) rather than seeking a grant?
• Can I leverage HSG’s network for corporate partnerships or policy influence?
• Is my team eligible for or interested in executive education or PhD programmes?
• Do I have the resources to participate in fee-based programmes (e.g., Executive MBA) if applicable?

Portfolio focus

• Sustainability and circular economy — Research and programmes like the Circular Lab focus on sustainable business models and consumer behaviour [1].
• Digital transformation and AI — HSG explores AI agents, online retail, and digital innovation, with specific research units and special topics [1].
• Behavioural economics — Studies on financial markets, NFTs, and consumer spending highlight a focus on human-centric economic analysis [1].
• Executive leadership — Programmes like the Executive MBA and Board Programmes target senior leaders, shaping future corporate and policy decision-makers [1].
• Empirical research methods — GSERM and related units emphasize rigorous data analysis and methodological training for researchers [1].

Interconnection: The portfolio clusters around high-impact, policy-relevant topics (sustainability, AI, behaviour) that align with HSG’s mission to influence business and society.