Support for industry

Quick and unbureaucratic

Reliable partner. Anyone wishing to set up or expand a business in Heidelberg can count on the administration to provide help – ranging from financial advice to staff recruitment and network-building.

Strong SMEs. Heidelerg is home to over 7,700 companies, many of them small and medium-sized enterprises. In 2009, the City of Heidelberg created a special network – the so-called "Mittelstandsoffensive" – to provide advice to SMEs and to give them quick and unbureaucratic support in any crisis. A special SME support officer works with the network’s expert advisors and the companies themselves to develop tailored solutions.

Local support. Next to assisting new start-ups, Heidelberg also helps existing local firms to grow their business, provides advice on locations, finds suitable sites or buildings, coordinates licensing processes and liaises between companies and the authorities.

Attractive retail center. Heidelberg is one of the region’s most popular shopping destinations – and the city authorities are determined to further enhance its attraction for shoppers and tourists. Retail experts are there to help Heidelberg companies in all matters related to the sector.

Recruitment assistance. Small businesses in particular can find it difficult to attract the right trainees and young staff – and the result is that many posts remain unfilled. The City of Heidelberg’s business support department helps companies find well-trained staff and acts as a bridge between businesses and young people.