ZRIA After One Year: University Partnerships, Companies in the USA, and More Concrete Results

The strategic division of ZRIA has completed a year of intensive operation and strategic learning. Tangible results demonstrate that the strategy — built on developing the university and its international partnerships, connecting local and global business, and preparing quality infrastructure and attractive urban planning — is delivering real progress for the Zlín Region.

Based on ZRIA’s negotiations, the Zlín Region concluded its historical first framework agreement with Tomas Bata University in 2024, co-financing new study programmes in engineering, semiconductor materials, radiology, and paramedic services.

ZRIA established contacts with universities in Texas, New York, Seattle, and San Diego. The first definitive milestone: an official memorandum between TBU Zlín and Saint Mary’s University in San Antonio, with specific exchanges of academics and students to follow.

ZRIA also concluded a strategic partnership with Opportunity Austin, one of the most successful American development agencies — uniquely at a regional rather than state level, making Zlín Region the first in Central Europe with such an agreement. “By leveraging the strengths of both regions, we will create a dynamic ecosystem supporting mutual investment, startups, talent exchange, and joint research,” said Roland Peña, VP for Global Investment and Innovation at Opportunity Austin.

Seven regional companies presented at SXSW thanks to ZRIA, gaining contacts, potential partners, and investors. Some presented in the historically first Czechhouse showcasing the best of the Czech Republic.

Expat Centre Zlín launched, serving foreign professionals in the region. In its first year, people from more than 22 countries used its services — housing, employment, documents, expat integration networking events. The Neelz AI chatbot for expats was also launched, with planned expansion into talent support and healthcare.

ZRIA facilitated Bolt’s entry into Zlín and Uherské Hradiště, improving mobility, creating dozens of jobs, and increasing cities’ attractiveness for young people.

The agency also organised 20+ lectures on Web3 and cybersecurity reaching 1,000+ secondary school students. The Algotrading course launched at FAME TBU, connecting students with real markets. ZRIA also served as main partner of AI Days in the Zlín Region, attracting 400+ participants and 30 experts.