The Austrian Trade Association (ÖGV) is a non-partisan association for entrepreneurs with voluntary membership and was founded around 185 years ago. 33 years later, in 1872, the construction work on Palais Eschenbach was completed and our association building was officially opened. The members of the trade association come from industry, trade, commerce and the liberal professions. Purpose: A functioning regulatory policy is the basis for successful entrepreneurship. This can primarily develop in an environment of fair competition, with predictable political framework conditions, with secure property and in freedom. The successful implementation of these principles and thus a powerful representation of interests are key objectives of the Austrian Trade Association. This is achieved through representation of interests, lobbying and press work for entrepreneurs. From the very beginning, the Austrian Trade Association has played a key role in shaping these framework conditions for free enterprise based on the social market economy. Compared to other associations, we can look back on the longest and most successful history in Austria. But as befits the attitude of an entrepreneur, we are looking to the future.

In over 100 years, 243 scientists and inventors, including 25 Nobel Prize winners, have been honoured with the Wilhelm Exner Medal. The medal, named after the Austrian business and technology promoter Wilhelm Exner, has been awarded by the Foundation of the Austrian Trade Association (ÖGV) since 1921. The diverse research results of the laureates are characterised by a reference to entrepreneurial practice, as they have formed and continue to form the foundation for the growth of industry and commerce. They therefore fully correspond to the principles advocated by Wilhelm Exner. The personalities to be honoured are selected on the recommendation of those already honoured and by decision of the Foundation's Scientific Advisory Board.

is a Brussels-based business federation for European associations of small and medium enterprises (SME), representing approx. 600.000 enterprises associated, employing more than 14,5 milion people.

Palais Eschenbach in the heart of Vienna is a typical example of a classicist representative building from the Rindstrasse era. Its spacious halls offer the flair of a bygone era and at the same time impress as a location for ‘modern’ events.In the building, which was erected in 1872 as an association building for the Austrian Trade Association, you have the option of renting the entire Beletage or just individual rooms for conferences, events, presentations, seminars and celebrations of all kinds for 10 to 350 people.You can decide for yourself whether you want to organise everything yourself, hire an agency or just choose the catering. Our staff are happy to recommend partners who they are confident will work well and smoothly together and who are familiar with the venue.From a presentation in a small circle to a fireside chat or a conference lasting several days with many participants, Palais Eschenbach offers the perfect setting in the heart of Vienna thanks to its modular bookability and an experienced event management team: from reservation to dismantling. How to get there? The cheapest car park in Vienna is just a few steps away and Eschenbachgasse is easy to reach by public transport anyway.Arrange a free viewing appointment or visit one of the numerous events in the building to experience the rooms in action. We look forward to seeing you.