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Swedish and Austrian Innovators Win Global Entrepreneur Awards for 2025

A cybersecurity pioneer and a green construction leader redefine global innovation. Their stories—from Yubico's password-free future to Wiehag's timber revolution—unfold at Vienna's historic gala.

The image shows the Cyber Threat Intelligence Integration Center (CTIC) logo, which consists of a...
The image shows the Cyber Threat Intelligence Integration Center (CTIC) logo, which consists of a blue circle with a white silhouette of a person in the center, surrounded by a white ring with the words "CTIC" written in blue. The logo is set against a white background.

Swedish and Austrian Innovators Win Global Entrepreneur Awards for 2025

Two entrepreneurs have been recognised for their global impact in innovation and sustainability. Stina Ehrensvärd, co-founder of cybersecurity firm Yubico, won the EY Entrepreneur of the Year award—becoming the first Swede and only the fourth woman to do so in 25 years. Meanwhile, Erich Wiesner, CEO of timber construction leader Wiehag, represented Austria at the same prestigious event.

The awards ceremony will take place on October 17, 2025, at Vienna’s historic Hofburg Palace.

Stina Ehrensvärd co-founded Yubico in 2007, a Swedish-American company specialising in secure login solutions. Its flagship product, the YubiKey, serves as a physical alternative to passwords or a second factor in two-factor authentication. The firm has grown rapidly, achieving a 40% compound annual growth rate since 2020. Today, Yubico secures 19 of the world’s 20 largest internet companies.

Erich Wiesner leads Wiehag, an Austrian business focused on sustainable timber construction. Under his direction, the company has delivered high-profile projects across the globe. Wiesner was named Austria’s national Entrepreneur of the Year in 2024 before competing for the global title. The EY World Entrepreneur of the Year programme highlights leaders who drive innovation, economic growth, and positive change. This year’s gala will bring together finalists from over 60 countries for the final decision in Vienna.

Ehrensvärd’s win marks a historic moment for Swedish entrepreneurship and women in technology. Wiesner’s nomination underscores Austria’s strength in sustainable business. Both leaders will be honoured at the October ceremony, where their contributions to cybersecurity and green construction will take centre stage.

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