NEOS Vienna launches academy to train political representatives

NEOS Vienna has launched an academy for political education and training, ORF reported on Monday. The Chancenwerkstatt, or “opportunity workshop”, is intended for current elected representatives, party officials and people looking to enter politics.

The party said the initiative responds to a roughly 40 percent increase in the number of NEOS representatives since Vienna’s 2025 election. It aims to support elected representatives in their political work, help party officials develop skills for organisational duties and prepare newcomers for potential political roles.

“With the Chancenwerkstatt, we are creating a strong programme for everyone who wants to take on responsibility at NEOS,” Vienna NEOS spokesperson and Education Minister Christoph Wiederkehr said. Participants would gain the knowledge and practical skills needed for political work, he said.

NEOS Vienna parliamentary group leader Selma Arapovic will head the academy. National Council member Ines Holzegger will serve as vice-president.