Austria – the perfect place to transform retail with AI

Operating out of Vienna, the international team develops and tests bespoke solutions, continuously refining its platform. Austria offers the perfect environment for YQ App’s mission – with exceptional quality of life and access to world-class tech talent – making it the ideal launchpad for the startup’s planned expansion across Europe. 

You are founder of the AI-powered YQ App, which aims to turn business data into business growth. I'm sure that's a tough one, but can you explain how this works in a few sentences? 

YQ App is like a superpower for retailers. Our AI platform captures the pulse of retail – everything from customer behavior and workforce dynamics to trends, events, and even local patterns – and turns it into crystal-clear insights. It tells businesses what to stock, when to schedule staff, and how to wow customers, driving growth without needing a super PhD in data science. We're here to make retail smarter, simpler, and unstoppable, transforming privacy into an opportunity for growth. 

What were the main reasons for founding YQ App in Austria? 

Austria stole my heart twelve years ago, and it’s where YQ was born. Its vibrant retail scene was the perfect playground to test our solutions, and the startup ecosystem – think great universities, funding, and a prime European location – gave us wings. Plus, the quality of life here draws brilliant minds from everywhere, making it a no-brainer to start our journey in Austria.

How would you rate Austria as a business location for AI startups? 

Austria is a gem for startups. It's right in the heart of Europe. The startup vibe is growing, and the quality of life attracts global talent. It’s a place where big ideas feel at home – and YQ is proof of that. 

Your team, which has grown to 11 within roughly a year, includes collaborators from 6 nations. How would you rate the access to talent in Austria? 

Austria’s talent pool is great. We built a team of 11 from six nations – each one passionate about innovating retail. The country’s quality of life and buzzing tech scene act like a magnet for diverse, driven people. It’s like Austria handpicks talent for us. 

You have been able to launch several pilots of YQ App’s solution. How open are Austrian companies for cooperation with startups? 

Austrian businesses are cautious but curious. Earning their trust was – and still is – a challenge; retailers want proof, not promises. But once we demonstrate how YQ can drive growth, doors open. And once that connection is made, they’re genuinely willing to try new things. 

What opportunities and potential do you see for YQ App in Austria? 

Austria is our launchpad and so much more. Its strong retail sector is perfect for honing YQ’s magic. The diverse market here mirrors Europe, giving us insights to go global. We’re not just growing a company – we’re building a hub to revolutionize retail, starting right here. 

What were the biggest challenges? 

Starting YQ was like a walk in the Alps, both inspiring and difficult. Setting up the company and navigating legal hoops felt like climbing a mountain. Finding the right talent took grit, but the real challenge? Winning over traditional retailers. Those first pilot wins showed us trust is earned – and we’re earning it every day.

How did ABA support you? 

ABA worked like a guiding star. ABA connected us with the right people – agencies, partners, you name it. They made us feel like family. 

What do you consider to be the most important underlying conditions and strengths of the Austrian business location for companies in the deep tech sector? What is the country’s unique selling proposition? 

Austria’s deep tech scene thrives on great universities, a central European spot that screams opportunity, and a culture of innovation. But its true value? A tight-knit community that blends heart with ingenuity, transforming EU privacy protections into a foundation for trust and growth. It’s a place where dreams soar, rooted in a village-like spirit – that’s Austria’s unique spark.

What are the next steps/long-term goals of YQ App after its foundation? 

We’re just warming up. First, we’re expanding across Austria, Germany, the UK, and beyond, teaming up with retail giants and perfecting our AI to predict solutions that truly help our customers making the right decisions. Next, we’ll bring consumers into the mix, creating a retail ecosystem where everyone wins. Our big dream? To be the global heartbeat of retail, transforming stores worldwide. 

And finally, one last question: what do you personally value the most about Austria? 

Austria feels like a warm place. It’s where my daughter took her first steps, where my family found home, and where YQ came to life. It mixes big-city energy with village warmth – nature, culture, and community all in one. I’m forever grateful to call it home.