Dortmund's Economic Development in February 2026: Digital Infrastructure, Senior Economy, and Vocational Training in Focus

Economic and Employment Promotion: Digital Infrastructure as a Key Issue

In Dortmund, the expansion of digital infrastructure, particularly in the areas of fiber-optic and mobile networks, was at the center of economic policy discussions. The Dortmund Economic Development Corporation (WF DO) was tasked with continuing two projects to support infrastructure expansion. These include the Mobile Network Coordination (MBK) and the Gigabit Coordination (GBK), which will be funded with a total budget of 546,510 EUR over the next three years. The city will receive 210,000 EUR in subsidies from the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. The goal is to accelerate and coordinate the expansion of broadband and mobile network coverage, including the joint use of existing infrastructure and the identification of suitable properties for mobile antennas.

The project positions are grouped into salary classes EG12 and A12 and are intended to serve as a contact point for businesses and institutions with questions about digital infrastructure. In addition to technical implementation, extensive public relations activities are planned to raise awareness of digital opportunities.

Strengthening the Senior Economy: A New Economic Segment in Dortmund

Another central topic was the development of the concept "Senior Economy Dortmund." This initiative was launched by the Senior Advisory Board to promote the participation of older people in urban society and to open up new economic opportunities. With over 160,000 seniors, this segment is not only socially but also economically relevant.

The Dortmund Economic Development Corporation will be primarily responsible for developing and implementing the concept. The goal is to introduce a quality seal "Partner of the Senior Economy Dortmund" and to address companies in trade, services, and production. A long-term initiative will be carried by an association, supported by a low-threshold membership model.

The economic development corporation also plans to create an online portal to connect companies with seniors. The initiative will be promoted through the magazine "Senioren Heute" and social networks.

Vocational Training in Dortmund: Challenges and Action Required

The vocational training situation in Dortmund was the subject of a detailed inquiry by the Left Party faction in the City Council. The administration was asked to clarify how many training positions were offered and filled in 2025, as well as the rate of unfilled positions and the reasons for this. In addition, the vocational training dropout rate and its causes, as well as measures to improve the situation, were in the focus.

The city of Dortmund relies on programs such as "Dozubi Plus," which financially support trainees and companies. For 2026, topic-specific measures are planned to stabilize the skilled workforce situation and reduce youth unemployment. The vocational training situation is a central indicator of the city's economic future viability.

Outlook: Digital Infrastructure and Economic Diversification

The decisions made in February 2026 show that Dortmund is deliberately focusing on future fields such as digital infrastructure and economic diversification. With projects like "ACCESS Hubs" and a focus on the senior economy, the city is betting on innovation and inclusiveness. At the same time, the expansion of vocational training systems is seen as a key lever for long-term economic stability.

The coming months will show how successfully these measures are implemented and what role Dortmund will play in regional and beyond-regional economic development. Cooperation with economic actors, the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, and the broader public will remain crucial.