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From the Laboratory to a Global Innovation

IMC KremsAlumni StoryMedical and Pharmaceutical BiotechnologyUmwelt- und NachhaltigkeitsmanagementCareer & start-ups
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Hanna Gansch is one of those IMC alumnae who combine scientific expertise, entrepreneurship and international impact in an impressive way.

As a double Master graduate of IMC Krems – in Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Umwelt- und Nachhaltigkeitsmanagement – she knew early on that she wanted her work to make a societal and technological contribution.

Today, she is the visionary behind the internationally recognised Fräsinator. The innovation quickly attracted attention, especially in Egypt and the GCC region: there, the Fräsinator can “mill” sand off the streets, much like snow blowers remove snow in Europe and the USA. Unlike snow, however, sand is not seasonal – it is created almost daily due to extreme weather conditions.

Hanna Gansch
Hanna’s patented technology is based on an impeller that moves materials – whether snow, silage or sand – gently yet extremely energy efficiently.

How it all began: Passion, studies and the birth of an idea

Hanna’s journey to IMC Krems began with extensive research. Her enthusiasm for microbiology – her favourite subject at HLUW Yspertal – led her to study biotechnology. The English-taught programme and excellent rankings convinced her instantly, and she welcomed the challenge.

After completing her first master degree, she worked at Baxter. A conversation with a fellow student became the turning point: the enthusiasm for the Umwelt- und Nachhaltigkeitsmanagement programme was so contagious that Hanna reduced her working hours to start the part-time course. This decision changed everything – this was the beginning of the Fräsinator story.

In the middle of her second master degree, she founded the company together with her father and dedicated her thesis to energy-saving innovation. She examined whether the special gearbox, which reduces energy consumption by 60%, could also increase the efficiency of wind turbines. Theoretically yes, practically too complex. Yet the idea remains on her radar.

The Fräsinator – an Innovation that crosses borders

The patented technology is based on an impeller that moves materials – whether snow, silage or sand – gently yet extremely energy efficiently. The machine saves up to 60% energy, can be used all year round, and meets demands for which no suitable solution existed before.

2 Minutes 2 Million – the moment everything accelerated

Hanna presented her idea on the TV show 2 Minutes 2 Million (2 Minuten 2 Millionen) on Puls 4 – and won the jury over. Her pitch was humorous, well founded and showcased the innovation’s potential. The appearance became a decisive catalyst for the next development steps.

Recent developments: Stronger after a challenging phase

The past years have been intense. After a difficult period, Hanna realigned her strategy, strengthened partnerships and expanded the international market presence. Today, she leads the company as CEO and majority owner – a role that demonstrates her vision, structure and leadership skills.

Her story shows how perseverance, competence and courage can turn challenging times into opportunities for the future.

What makes her a true IMC High-Flyer

  • Technology with global relevance:
    The Fräsinator demonstrates Austrian innovation – from Alpine snow to desert sand.
  • Female leadership at the highest level:
    As founder and CEO, she sets an important example for women in technical industries.
  • Scientifically grounded, entrepreneurially executed:
    Her two master degrees form a strong foundation for sustainable, technology-based entrepreneurship.
  • Authentic and inspiring:
    From childhood dreams of unicorns to a world class innovation – her story is unique, down to earth and encouraging.

Three questions for Hanna Gansch

How does an Austrian founder manage to develop a technology that works reliably even under desert conditions, such as in Dubai?

It was a fortunate coincidence. The gearbox can mill or move all bulk materials – including sand. At some point, we realised that the sand on roads in desert regions creates the same problem as snow does in Europe. It was obvious to adapt the European solution – snow blowers – for desert states. With no competitors! Once this approach gained traction, we focused entirely on sand. Successfully.

Which strategies help to realign a project more strongly after a difficult phase?

Failure is exhausting, but it is also an opportunity to emerge stronger. An honest analysis of the past, the determination to get back up again, and the passion to bring the vision to life motivated me to restructure the project and restart with full momentum.

Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

Umwelt- und Nachhaltigkeitsmanagement

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