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Transformation in Hesse: How the HessenFonds strengthens companies!
The annual event at the University of Kassel highlights transformation processes, Hesse's digital future and innovative funding programs.
Transformation in Hesse: How the HessenFonds strengthens companies!
The annual event of the Transformation Network Region Kassel (tregks) took place on June 17, 2025, which was launched two years ago to network the actors in regional transformation. An initial interim assessment was made with the motto “Experiences, insights and perspectives”. The panel discussion brought together well-known representatives, including Kaweh Mansoori, the Hessian Minister for Economic Affairs, Energy, Transport, Housing and Rural Areas, and Martin Köchy, Managing Director of Hanomag Aluminum Solutions GmbH. Also Prof. Dr. Guido Bünstorf from the University of Kassel was part of this discussion.
The focus of the discussion was on current and future challenges that affect Hesse as an automotive state. Mansoori emphasized how important it is to maintain the factory locations and secure prosperity in the region. A central element was the introduction of the HessenFonds, which serves as a support instrument for investment projects without major bureaucratic hurdles. This fund makes it possible to help companies during structural change, particularly in the areas of decarbonization and digitalization.
The HessenFonds: support for companies
The HessenFonds is designed specifically for Hessen companies and supports start-ups, medium-sized companies and large companies in transformation processes. The funding includes low-interest loans, investments and risk capital, which can be applied for via WIBank. Loud technologieland-hessen.de The fund promotes investments and projects to strengthen competitiveness and promote future topics. Lending offers terms until 2028 for low-interest loans and until 2034 for investments.
The preset basic interest rate advantage of 1 percent p.a. applies to all businesses, although companies with loan amounts over 1 million euros can receive an additional interest bonus of up to 1 percent if they meet specific criteria. This interest bonus is granted automatically for loans of up to 1 million euros. WIBank has also developed a comprehensive lending model that includes both programs via the house bank process and direct loans to companies.
Transformation and digitalization in Hesse
Prof. Dr. During the discussion, Guido Bünstorf also pointed out Hesse's lagging behind in digitalization compared to the national average. The decarbonization strategy in Hesse received positive feedback, but this does not change the different perspectives on how the region should approach new challenges. Bünstorf called for openness to new things and an open discourse in order to secure the future viability of North Hesse.
Silke Engler, deputy district councilor (SPD), emphasized that decisive steps have already been taken in northern Hesse that the region can be proud of. Köchy added that it is necessary to face change and adopt a more productive attitude. A strong sense of unity among employees and in the region is essential for the upcoming change.
Overall, the tregk's annual event signals that Hesse is a region in transition in which strategy and cooperation are of crucial importance in the context of new challenges. The introduction of the HessenFonds is seen as a step not only to make the region future-proof, but also to establish it as an innovative and climate-friendly technology and production location.