A record year for domestic tourism
The Austrian Hotel and Tourism Bank (OeHT) has had a truly impressive year. In an exciting 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 report. This report shows how targeted investments can not only promote stability and value creation in Austrian tourism, but also trigger a spectacular boom in the sector.
Funding in the billions
The numbers speak for themselves: In 2025, funding was made available at an unprecedented level. The OeHT, which acts as the central financing body for domestic tourism, has significantly contributed to the stability of the sector through its smart investment strategies. But what does this mean concretely for the people in Austria?
For hoteliers and tourism companies, these grants mean a variety of opportunities to modernize their businesses, improve the quality of their offerings and thus remain competitive. This in turn leads to a direct improvement of the tourist infrastructure, from which not only businesses but also guests benefit. And the best part: these investments help create and secure thousands of jobs in the tourism industry.
What's behind the OeHT?
The Austrian Hotel and Tourism Bank, or OeHT for short, is a specialist bank that focuses on financing projects in the tourism and leisure industry. It was founded with the aim 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 sector, the OeHT has repeatedly proven that it is a reliable partner for companies across Austria.
Historical look back: From crisis to upswing
It's no secret that Austrian tourism has faced major challenges in recent years. The pandemic hit the sector hard worldwide, and many companies fought for survival. But thanks to targeted funding measures and the tireless work of the OeHT, a sustainable recovery could be initiated.
Compared to other federal states, it becomes apparent that investments by the OeHT are bearing fruit especially in alpine regions like Tyrol and Salzburg. These areas, known for their winter tourism, were able through the funding not only to improve their infrastructure but also to open up new markets and implement innovative concepts.
A look into the future: What awaits us 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 pioneer in sustainability and thus address new target groups.
For citizens this means not only an improvement of tourist offerings, but also a strengthening of environmental awareness. After all, the aim is to preserve 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 a significant share in the stability and growth of the sector. Through its targeted investments not only is the quality of tourist offerings improved, but also the resilience of companies is 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 competition.
- Job security: The investments help secure existing jobs and create new ones, which is particularly important in rural regions.
- Sustainability: The focus on environmentally friendly projects ensures that tourism in Austria is shaped sustainably in the long term, benefiting both the environment and the economy.
The numbers and facts speak clearly: the OeHT is well on its way to preparing Austrian tourism for the future. But what does that mean for the individual citizen?
Direct impact on the population
For Austrians the positive development in tourism above all means one thing: quality of life. Through the improved tourist offerings, not only guests 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 of the population.
But despite all successes there are also challenges to be mastered. The increasing demand for tourist offerings also brings ecological and social questions that will need to be answered in the coming years.
Conclusion: A successful year with an eye to the future
The OeHT's 2025 funding report is an impressive testament to the successful work of the bank and its partners. Through targeted investments and smart strategies, Austrian tourism was strengthened and prepared for the challenges of the future. With a clear focus on sustainability and innovation, the 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 sector 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.
