Bremen in dialogue: Entrepreneurs and scientists are looking for solutions!

Bremen in dialogue: Entrepreneurs and scientists are looking for solutions!

Around 100 representatives from business, politics, science and civil society gathered on September 13, 2025 at the Constructor University in Bremen for an important discussion event. Under the title “Global Uncertainties, Regional Answers – Economy in Dialogue”, the aim was to strengthen regional cooperation and develop common strategies to overcome global challenges. The event was organized by the Bremen-Nord Economic and Structural Council (WIR) in collaboration with the Bremen Chamber of Commerce – IHK for Bremen and Bremerhaven.

Welcoming words were given by Rainer Küchen from WIR and the Chancellor of the Constructor University, Turgut Tülü. The latter emphasized the international orientation of the university, which includes a student body from over 130 countries. He also pointed out the importance of industrial partnerships and practical study programs. Mirja Romeiser and Falk Witte moderated the event.

Challenges of the regional economy

André Grobien, President of the IHK Bremen, and Dr. Tim Nesemann, CEO of Sparkasse Bremen, about current challenges for the region. Topics such as tariffs, geopolitical tensions, rising energy costs and demographic changes were addressed. Grobien and Nesemann emphasized that Bremen's long-term success depends on internal strengths such as digital transformation, the adaptability of companies and the immigration of qualified specialists. Preparing the workforce for future demands through targeted training and investment was seen as crucial.

A central element of the discussion was the quality of life in the region. This is seen as a key factor in attracting and retaining qualified specialists. Leisure activities and modern urban infrastructure play an important role here.

Panel discussion and informal exchange

This was followed by a panel discussion in which, in addition to Grobien and Nesemann, Peter Heumüller from Marinetech Edelstahlhandel GmbH, Ulf Schnittger from Schnittger Wilde Ingenieure and Dr. Fabian T. Dehos, Professor of Economics, took part. This round offered participants the opportunity to discuss open questions and shed light on different perspectives.

The evening concluded with an informal exchange in the foyer, which aimed to promote “dialogue at eye level”. It became clear that exchange between regional actors is essential for economic well-being.

This discussion takes place in a context in which regional structural policy continues to gain importance. According to information from the Federal Ministry of Economics The GRW (Joint Task “Improvement of the Regional Economic Structure”) is a central national instrument for promoting structurally weak regions and aims to compensate for locational disadvantages and to secure growth and employment.

The GRW reforms of 2022 placed a clear focus on accelerating the transformation to a climate-neutral economy. A public consultation was also launched on the topic of “Industrial and commercial land development in structurally weak regions”, with the aim of identifying obstacles to the establishment of new companies and developing solutions. This also includes the provision of information for anyone interested and offers material, including a questionnaire in PDF format.

The results of these efforts, coupled with the commitment of regional actors, could make a decisive contribution to further strengthening Bremen as a location for skilled workers and companies and expanding its position in an already challenging global environment.