Wiesbaden’s leaders unite to tackle economic challenges at IHK’s 2026 reception
Over 400 guests gathered at the IHK Wiesbaden’s New Year Reception on January 15, 2026, to discuss the region's economic future. Held in Wiesbaden, the event brought together local leaders, entrepreneurs, and officials to address challenges and opportunities for growth. Key topics included reforms, commercial land shortages, and the need for stronger collaboration between businesses and communities.
IHK President Jörg Brömer opened the reception by calling for bold reforms to support regional businesses. He described local companies as the 'powerhouses' of the regional economy but warned that slow permitting processes, complex startup rules, and unstable energy prices were holding them back. Brömer also pointed to successful projects like the Startup Hub in the Old Courthouse and 'shop local' campaigns as signs of the region's resilience.
State Secretary Umut Sönmez urged attendees not to underestimate Germany’s economic strength, even amid ongoing crises. He also criticised plans to dedicate 40 hectares of Wiesbaden’s commercial land to the new Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) headquarters, arguing that it would reduce space for business expansion. The event highlighted the role of local entrepreneurs, such as the Mittelstandsverbund Wiesbaden, alongside major firms like Deutsche Bank and Rittal GmbH. Representatives from the Hessian Ministry of Economic Affairs, led by Minister Kaweh Mansury, joined discussions on securing skilled labour, retaining young people in rural areas, and improving municipal funding. Mayors and business leaders explored ways to link volunteer work more closely with economic growth. Brömer closed by expressing hope that Wiesbaden’s title as World Design Capital 2026, under the theme ‘Design for Democracy’, would bring new energy to the region. Guests left with plans to strengthen partnerships and push for necessary reforms in the coming year.
The reception ended with a clear focus on collaboration and action. Businesses, officials, and community leaders identified shared priorities, from cutting red tape to securing commercial land. The discussions set the stage for concrete steps to boost the region’s economic stability in 2026.
