The scholarship is intended for artisans who have started their own business or taken over an existing business in Wiesbaden with an exceptional business idea. The business must have been founded or taken over no more than three years prior to the application date. For more information on the eligibility requirements and how to apply, visit www.wiesbaden.de/wirtschaft/foerdermittel-wettbewerbe (opens in a new tab). (opens in a new tab)

“The skilled trades are a key driver of our city’s economic development. With this skilled trades scholarship, we want to support people who bring new ideas to life with courage, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit,” explains Daniela Georgi, Head of the Economic Affairs Department. “Whether it’s innovative technologies, sustainable business models, or new approaches to training—we want to help ensure that forward-looking concepts are implemented, thereby strengthening Wiesbaden’s skilled trades sector.” 

To be eligible for funding, the business idea must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Future-oriented: Use of new technologies, digital processes, or innovative approaches.
• Social added value: social or cultural impact, as well as addressing gaps in service provision.
• New approaches to careers and training: Integration of disadvantaged skilled workers and young talent into the labor market.
• Sustainability: for example, through regional supply chains or circular economy concepts.

Following an initial screening, eligible applicants will be invited in December to present their business ideas in person to a jury in Wiesbaden, which will then decide on the awarding of the grants. 

The scholarship is an initiative under the State Capital of Wiesbaden’s “Crafts Agenda 2030,” which aims to improve the framework conditions for the skilled trades.