Wilhelmshaven: Economic Promotion and Innovation in the Focus of Urban Development

Economic Promotion Wilhelmshaven (WFG): A Key Player in Regional Development

The Economic Promotion Agency Wilhelmshaven (WFG), led by Managing Director Alexander Leonhardt, is a central actor in the region's economic development. The WFG coordinates funding programs, supports startups, and acts as an interface between economy, politics, and science. The city of Wilhelmshaven holds a majority share of 52%, supported by the district of Friesland with 48% and the Port of Wilhelmshaven.

The WFG is divided into several departments – project management, controlling, and event management – and has a broad network ranging from expert advisory boards to innovation and startup consulting. Special emphasis is placed on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, digitalization, and the transition to a sustainable economic structure.

Floating Homes: A New Form of Housing and Economic Opportunity?

The CDU parliamentary group succeeded in moving the Committee for Economy, Tourism, and Ports to address a controversial topic: the settlement of Floating Homes in the Great Harbor. The application for a zoning plan for this new form of housing was submitted on February 19, 2026, and aims to enable urban densification without additional sealing of land. The goal is to increase the city's attractiveness while simultaneously creating an innovative housing offer that can also be used for tourism.

The discussion about Floating Homes shows the city's willingness to adopt new forms of urban development. At the same time, the legal, planning, and ecological framework conditions still need to be clarified. Integration into the harbor development plan and the involvement of expert advisory boards are decisive steps in this process.

Tourism Strategy 2026: Sustainability and Digital Transformation in Focus

Another central topic during the February week was the future of Wilhelmshaven's tourism strategy. The WFG and the city hall are working on a variety of measures, including the expansion of cycling and hiking trails, the development of new city tours, and the introduction of a water taxi service between Bontekai, Südstrand, and the Marine Museum.

A particular focus is on digitalization and the use of funding: The NBank supports projects in the areas of tourism, innovation, and sustainability with up to 80% funding rate. The city plans a fall/winter campaign under the motto "Cozy Coastal City" to launch the year 2026 with new offers and package tours. At the same time, the city voucher is being further developed, while unused booking platforms are being phased out.

The tourist infrastructure is being reviewed as part of the recognition process for a spa town. High requirements regarding cycling and hiking trails, barrier-free accessibility, and quality assurance must be met, a process that can take up to 1.5 years.

Future Perspectives: Transformation and Competitiveness

Economic development in Wilhelmshaven is shaped by three central themes: transformation, sustainability, and competitiveness. The "Green Region by the Sea" is being advanced through projects such as the energy hub, the hydrogen economy, and the development of new business models.

The WFG is focusing on cooperation models between industry, tourism, and science in order to create synergies. At the same time, measures are being developed to combat the shortage of skilled workers, for example through modern work forms and the strengthening of digital skills. The region is thus being supported in maintaining its competitiveness in the race for investors and skilled workers.

Conclusion: Wilhelmshaven on Course to Become a Green, Digital, and Vibrant Port City

The February week of 2026 shows that Wilhelmshaven is actively working on the city's future. With the WFG as a central actor, an ambitious tourism strategy, and new housing forms such as Floating Homes, the city has the courage to transform. Cooperation with economy, politics, and science is key here. If the projects and cooperation models are successfully implemented, Wilhelmshaven can convince as a vibrant, green, and digital port city in the coming years.