Economic Development in Hagen: Challenges and Opportunities in March 2026

Economic Committee Hagen: Location Development in Focus

Economic development in Hagen is a central topic for the city's future viability. In March 2026, the Economic Committee set key priorities to strengthen the business location. The challenges are diverse – ranging from traffic infrastructure to the availability of skilled workers. In this article, we analyze the most important decisions and developments.

Economic Promotion and Funding: Developing a New Strategy

The Economic Committee has focused on securing and developing Hagen as a business location. A central instrument in this effort is the regional economic promotion program (RWP), which approved 43 business applications between 2021 and 2025. The investments totaled 134.85 million euros, with an average of 10% of the costs covered by funding.

From 2026, the RWP will undergo reform. The focus will now be on increasing productivity, modernization, and digitalization. The mandatory creation of jobs will no longer be a requirement. The goal is to provide targeted advice and support to businesses in making investments, thereby increasing Hagen’s attractiveness as a business location. Infrastructure is seen as a key factor for economic development, particularly in projects such as the Seepark Hengstey and the expansion of broadband networks.

Transport and Digital Infrastructure: Critical Assessments

The transport and digital infrastructure in Hagen is generally evaluated negatively by businesses. 60% of companies consider the condition of roads and rail as inadequate. Broadband availability is somewhat better, with 44% positive assessments. Mobile network coverage and public transport, however, are significantly worse.

These infrastructure problems are not only a barrier for the local economy but also for investors from other regions. The city of Hagen has therefore set clear priorities: investments in transport networks, digital infrastructure, and education. In particular, the expansion of broadband and the modernization of public transport are seen as central to the city's future viability.

Securing Skilled Workers and Education: A Central Area of Action

The availability of skilled workers in Hagen remains critical. Only 10% of companies rate the availability of qualified personnel as good. At the same time, the demand is high: 75% name access to qualified staff as a central location factor. Therefore, dual education and the quality of educational offerings must be urgently strengthened.

Another problem is housing availability. Although 75% of companies consider the availability of attractive housing to be important, only 22% are satisfied. This shows that Hagen must not only have a strong economy, but also be a livable city in order to attract and retain skilled workers.

Political Goals: A Culture of Welcome and Transparency

The Economic Committee has formulated clear political goals. A culture of welcome and facilitation is to be created in order to attract companies and investors. Transparency and responsibility in municipal holdings are further priorities. Cooperation with external partners such as the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (SIHK) and the Federal Employment Agency is central to generating impulses for economic development.

Mayor Rehbein encouraged the committee members in his opening speech to work constructively and goal-oriented in the coming years. The results of the meeting show that Hagen is ready to face the challenges of the future.

Outlook: Investment Needs and Collaborations

The next steps for Hagen lie in the implementation of the approved measures. The planned opening event in May 2026 and the working session with partners and the advisory board show that the city is actively working on future development. At the same time, the evaluation of collaborations with universities for technology transfer and training centers is another central topic.

Economic development in Hagen does not depend only on the city, but also on the region. The industrial offensive in the Märkische region and support from EU funding offer new opportunities. With targeted investments, improved infrastructure, and strengthened educational offerings, Hagen can increase its competitiveness and grow in the long term.

Conclusion: Hagen on Course for an Economic Future

The decisions of the Economic Committee show that Hagen is actively working toward a future-oriented economy. The challenges are great, but the strategy is clear: investments in infrastructure, education, and skilled workers, strengthening economic promotion, and creating a liveable city. With these measures, Hagen can position itself as an attractive business location and secure its future.