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Funding and competitions

Hesse Champions 2026

Hessian companies - especially small and medium-sized enterprises - can apply for the title "Hessen Champion 2026" until June 30, 2026.

Hesssen Champions - apply now!

Business competition

The "Hessen Champions" Innovation and Growth Award honors Hessian companies that strengthen Hesse as a business location through forward-thinking ideas, innovative products, and sustainable entrepreneurship. The goal is to highlight outstanding achievements and provide a platform for creative minds, committed employers, and true drivers of innovation. 

All companies based in Hesse are eligible to apply until June 30, 2026, with a particular focus on small and medium-sized enterprises. 

The following categories will be recognized: 

  • Innovation:
    For companies that impress with new ideas and unique solutions—the evaluation criteria include degree of innovation, unique selling proposition, stage of development, and market potential.
  • Global Market Leader & Hidden Champion:
    For companies that are global leaders in their industry with a product or service. Market share and international significance within a niche are decisive factors.
  • Employer of the Year:
    For companies that have created a particularly large number of jobs in Hesse and contributed to securing a skilled workforce through creative HR strategies. 

Contact us

Department for Economy and Employment

Address

Kirchgasse 47
65183 Wiesbaden

Postal address

P.O. Box 3920
65029 Wiesbaden

Notes on public transport

Public transportation: Bus stop Dern'sches Gelände, Luisenplatz and Wilhelmstraße; bus lines 1, 2, 4, 5, 8, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 27, 30, 36, 45, 46, 47, 48, 262.

Opening hours

The department can be reached by telephone from Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the number given in the contact field. It is recommended that you make an appointment in advance.

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Explanations and notes

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