Western Switzerland's Digital Ecosystem: Focus on the Canton of Fribourg
While digital transformation is often associated with the technologies that make it possible, its success depends above all on organizations’ ability to integrate it sustainably into their practices and culture. This reality has been a constant throughout François Briguet’s career. With decades of experience leading technology and organizational projects in complex environments, he advocates for a vision of digital transformation focused on practical applications, buy-in, and the creation of tangible value for companies and their employees. This approach naturally enriches the discussions of the Alp ICT Expert Committee.
Throughout his career, particularly at the Fribourg Cantonal Bank, where he held various leadership roles in the field of technology and solutions, François Briguet has spearheaded numerous transformations related to information systems, digital services, and evolving work practices. His career reflects a steadfast conviction: technology is meaningful only when it meets real needs, simplifies processes, and provides lasting support to the people who use it. This vision also resonates with his longstanding commitment to sustainable development and corporate social responsibility.
François Briguet
Head of the Technologies & Solutions Division at BCF & President of IT Valley
“Human values are, and always will be, the foundation of our relationships with others. ICT technologies must remain at the service of humanity, enriching our relationships rather than diminishing them. Alp ICT is a platform that enables us to communicate more effectively, learn about technologies, and make them our own. In this way, we will continue to live in an increasingly connected world that remains true to its human nature.”
This vision is also reflected in the projects he currently supports to foster the next generation of digital talent and promote skills transfer. One of the most emblematic initiatives is the development of the AF-ICT Academy, which aims to strengthen training for young IT professionals in order to sustainably meet the skills needs of Fribourg-based companies. This approach illustrates a commitment to preparing the region for the digital future while placing people at the heart of technological change.
In this context, his involvement in the Alp ICT Expert Committee is a natural extension of his commitment to sharing experiences and pooling expertise to support businesses in Western Switzerland.
A digital transformation driven by skills and networks.
François Briguet’s vision is directly aligned with the priorities of the Canton of Fribourg. Historically characterized by a strong entrepreneurial and industrial culture, the region has gradually made innovation a driver of economic development that benefits all of its sectors. In this context, digital technologies are not viewed as an end in themselves, but as a means to strengthen the competitiveness of businesses, support their transformation, and develop the skills they will need in the future.
This approach is reflected, in particular, in a strong focus on fostering networking among economic stakeholders. In this regard, the IT Valley association, chaired by François Briguet, plays a central role in fostering the Fribourg digital ecosystem by promoting exchanges among businesses, experts, institutions, and talent. This commitment to strengthening synergies is also reflected in concrete initiatives such as the Digital Portal, which helps raise awareness of the digital skills, resources, and opportunities available in the region.
The same approach is evident at Bluefactory, a true innovation hub where startups, companies, researchers, and institutions collaborate on the major economic challenges of the future. The site hosts projects focused on digital technologies, the industry of the future, and sustainability, demonstrating how Fribourg aims to turn innovation into concrete solutions that create value for its economy.
This vision is, of course, supported by the Economic Development Office of the Canton of Fribourg, which places innovation, talent, and entrepreneurship at the heart of its development strategy. Through initiatives such as the “Why Fribourg” series, the region highlights the companies, projects, and skills that contribute to its appeal and capacity for innovation.
“The Canton of Fribourg has successfully seized strategic opportunities and made targeted investments that have led to the creation of specialized research centers, centers of expertise, and innovation hubs. By capitalizing on the latest technological and digital advancements, the region has thus been able to build a robust and diversified economy, with a focus on areas such as the bioeconomy and Industry 4.0.”
At a time when artificial intelligence, data, and digital technologies are gradually reshaping organizations, Fribourg reminds us that the success of a transformation depends not only on the tools deployed, but also on companies’ ability to develop the skills, collaborations, and culture needed to ensure that these tools are used sustainably to serve people and create value.
