Economic Policy in Munich: Focus on Innovation and Labor Market in February 2026

Economic Future Security in the State Capital

With digitalization and the changing demands of the labor market, Munich plays a key role in Bavaria's economic development. In February 2026, three significant topics were at the center: the promotion of cultural interim use, the Munich Employment and Qualification Program (MBQ), and the digitalization of economic policy under the guiding principle of digital sovereignty. These topics reflect the requirements of a competitive, sustainable, and inclusive economic location.

Digital Sovereignty as a Strategic Guiding Principle

Digital sovereignty is increasingly becoming a central element of economic planning in Munich. In the meeting of the Committee for Employment and Economy on February 24, 2026, a proposal from the Greens – Rosa List faction was discussed, which suggests digital sovereignty as a strategic guiding principle for economic and innovation promotion.

The idea behind this proposal is to reduce dependence on foreign technology companies while simultaneously strengthening the development of national and regional technologies. Specifically, this means aligning state funding more closely with domestic start-ups, IT infrastructure, and digital skills. The discussion in the meeting showed that while economic actors in Munich recognize the necessity of digital sovereignty, they also expressed concerns about implementation and competitiveness in global markets.

Cultural Interim Use as a Growth Driver

Another central topic was the fund "Innovative Cultural Interim Use 2025." The goal of this fund is to support creative projects in vacant or temporarily unused spaces in order to promote cultural diversity and economic impulses. In the meeting, the results of the funding programs were evaluated, and suggestions for the future were made. It was particularly emphasized how such projects can be valuable not only culturally but also economically – by creating jobs, increasing tourist appeal, and strengthening small businesses.

At the same time, it was critically noted that the evaluation mechanisms still need to be improved in order to measure the actual impact of these projects and guide financial investment more efficiently.

MBQ: Employment and Qualification in Focus

The Munich Employment and Qualification Program (MBQ) is another focus of the city's economic policy. It aims to provide people who are disadvantaged in the labor market with a perspective through qualification measures and employment opportunities. In the meeting, the goals, current status, and impact of the program were presented.

The discussion showed that the MBQ remains relevant especially in times of economic uncertainty. At the same time, it became clear that long-term financing and adaptation to new challenges, such as the transition to Industry 4.0, still need to be improved. Cooperation with regional companies and educational institutions was seen as crucial for the success of the program.

Outlook: Economic Policy as an Investment in the Future

Munich is in a phase in which economic policy is not only about short-term profits but about long-term investments in innovation, jobs, and sustainable development. The discussions and decisions in the Committee for Employment and Economy in February 2026 show that the city is consciously preparing for the challenges of the future.

The three focal points – digital sovereignty, cultural interim use, and the MBQ – should not be viewed in isolation but form an overall concept that connects economy, society, and culture. The coming months will show how these initiatives are specifically implemented and what role they will play in the city's economic policy.