A record year for domestic tourism
The Austrian Hotel and Tourism Bank (OeHT) has had a truly remarkable year. In a gripping press conference on January 27, 2026, Tourism State Secretary Elisabeth Zehetner, together with OeHT managing directors Andrea Sassen-Abfalter and Matthias Matzer, presented the breathtaking results of the 2025 funding balance. This report shows how targeted investments not only promote stability and value creation in Austrian tourism, but can also trigger a spectacular boom in the industry.
Funding in the billions
The numbers speak for themselves: In 2025, funding was provided at an unprecedented level. The OeHT, which serves as the central financing agency for domestic tourism, has, through its smart investment strategies, made a major contribution to the sector's stability. But what does this concretely mean for the people of Austria?
For hotel owners and tourism companies, this funding means a variety of opportunities to modernize their businesses, improve the quality of their offerings, and thereby remain competitive. This in turn leads to a direct improvement of the tourist infrastructure, from which not only companies but also guests benefit. And the best part: these investments contribute to the creation and safeguarding of thousands of jobs in the tourism sector.
What is behind the OeHT?
The Austrian Hotel and Tourism Bank, abbreviated OeHT, is a specialist bank that focuses on financing projects in the tourism and leisure sector. It was founded with the goal of strengthening the competitiveness of Austrian tourism businesses and promoting their capacity for innovation. With its many years of experience and deep understanding of the industry, the OeHT has repeatedly proven that it is a reliable partner for companies across Austria.
Historical retrospective: From crisis to recovery
It's no secret that Austrian tourism has faced major challenges in recent years. The pandemic hit the sector hard worldwide, and many businesses struggled to survive. But thanks to targeted support measures and the tireless work of the OeHT, a sustainable recovery could be initiated.
Compared with other federal states, investments by the OeHT are especially paying off in alpine regions such as Tyrol and Salzburg. These areas, known for their winter tourism, have been able, thanks to the funding, not only to improve their infrastructure but also to open up new markets and implement innovative concepts.
A look ahead: What can we expect in 2026?
The press conference offered not only a review of a successful year but also an exciting outlook for 2026. State Secretary Zehetner and the OeHT managing directors announced that next year's focus will be on sustainable and environmentally friendly projects. The goal is to position Austrian tourism as a leader in sustainability and thereby appeal to new target groups.
For citizens, this means not only an improvement in tourist offerings but also a strengthening of environmental awareness. After all, it's about preserving Austria's natural beauty while at the same time achieving economic success.
Expert opinions: What do the professionals say?
Tourism experts agree: the OeHT has played a major role in the stability and growth of the sector. Through its targeted investments, not only is the quality of tourism offerings being improved, but the resilience of businesses is also being strengthened. But what do the concrete effects look like?
- Increased competitiveness: Through the funding, companies can invest in new technologies and innovative concepts that give them a decisive advantage over international competitors.
- Job security: The investments help secure existing jobs and create new ones, which is especially important in rural regions.
- Sustainability: The focus on environmentally friendly projects ensures that tourism in Austria is designed to be sustainable in the long term, benefiting both the environment and the economy.
The numbers and facts tell a clear story: OeHT is well on its way to making Austrian tourism fit for the future. But what does this mean for the individual citizen?
Direct impacts on the population
For Austrians, the positive development in tourism primarily means one thing: quality of life. Thanks to improved tourism offerings, not only visitors but also locals benefit. Infrastructure is modernized, quality of life is increased, and the regional economy is strengthened. All of this leads to higher satisfaction and improved well-being among the population.
But despite all the successes, there are also challenges to be overcome. The rising demand for tourism offerings also raises ecological and social questions that will need to be addressed in the coming years.
Conclusion: A successful year looking to the future
The OeHT's 2025 funding record is an impressive testament to the successful work of the bank and its partners. Through targeted investments and smart strategies, Austrian tourism has been strengthened and prepared for the challenges of the future. With a clear focus on sustainability and innovation, OeHT is well on its way to establishing Austria as a leading tourism destination.
The coming years promise to be exciting, and it remains to be seen how the industry will continue to develop. One thing is certain, however: the OeHT will continue to play a central role and keep Austrian tourism on a course for success.
