Economic Policy in Aachen: Impulses for Innovation and Urban Development in February 2026

Economic Impulses: Aachen's Strategy for Innovation and Growth

The economic development of a city depends significantly on strategic planning, investments, and the ability to set new impulses. In February 2026, Aachen made important decisions in several areas to sustainably strengthen the business location, foster innovation, and make the city center more vibrant.

2026 Budget and Investments for the Future

The Committee for Work, Economy, Science, and Regional Development (AAWWR) approved the partial result plans and partial financial plans of the 2026 draft budget, as well as the financial planning up to 2029 in February 2026. Investments for the years 2027–2029 were presented, showing a strategic orientation: The city emphasizes long-term financial planning to fund growth and innovation.

A central aspect was the division of product 150103 "Science and Digital Innovations" into two separate areas. This reflects organizational and legal adjustments and underlines Aachen's goal to simultaneously strengthen digital competencies and scientific research. The product sheets, approved in the presented form, form the basis for implementing this strategy.

Campus Melaten: Catalyst for Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Another focus was the development of Campus Melaten, which continues to function as an innovation and transfer ecosystem. The new building for startups and technology-oriented companies, completed in December 2025, is now being strategically further developed. Dr. Klaus Feuerborn, CEO of RWTH Aachen Campus GmbH, will report on the implementation in the coming steps and submit proposals for long-term competitiveness.

The city not only wants to strengthen research and science through Campus Melaten, but also promote networking with the business sector. Measures for location development and the creation of synergies between science and economy are central to this.

KRAFTWERK Aachen: Vision for the Future of the Bushof Area

Another milestone in urban policy is KRAFTWERK Aachen, part of the neighborhood development in the Bushof area. The goal is to create a central location for research, entrepreneurship, and societal participation. The project promotes entrepreneurial dynamism and creates jobs, through which Aachen wants to further strengthen its position as a science and startup location.

The economic development agency is working on an integrated overall concept, which will be presented in the second half of 2026 and discussed politically. Key areas include housing with social diversity, mobility, and energy. The Bushof is to become an emission-free mobility hub with Regiotram, car sharing, and e-mobility.

City Management and Support for the City Center

The reorganization of department 02 (Economy, Science, Digital City, and Europe) into the independent department "City Management" shows the city's determination to actively shape the development of the city center. Four central fields of work – analysis and planning, network and cooperation management, settlement and vacancy management, and experiential location – have been expanded.

In 2025, 18 measures were already supported by the fund "Oecher Perlen," including street festivals and decorative enhancements. The fund "Guten Abend, Aachen" supported 46 events and brought 7,500 visitors to the city center. In addition, 11 vacant retail units were successfully placed through the project "Ladenliebe."

With initiatives such as networking events for retail and gastronomy and workshops, cooperation between stakeholders is being promoted. The platform "LeAn – Vacancy and Settlement" helps to occupy vacancies with usage concepts.

Outlook: Economic Future in Aachen

The decisions made in February 2026 show that Aachen is deliberately focusing on innovation, support for startups, and urban development. The combination of scientific expertise, digital impulses, and urban planning makes Aachen an attractive business location.

The implementation of planned projects – from Campus Melaten through KRAFTWERK Aachen to initiatives against vacancy – will be crucial in the coming months. With a strong economic policy and forward-looking financial planning, Aachen can secure its economic future and at the same time increase the quality of life for residents and businesses.