Kiel is investing in inter-municipal economic development – impulses for the location 2026

Kiel as an economic engine: Inter-municipal cooperation and investments in focus

In February 2026, Kiel positioned itself as an active shaper of its economic future. By developing new industrial areas, engaging in inter-municipal cooperation, and setting a clear course toward sustainable infrastructure, the city has provided a clear impulse for the region. These measures not only demonstrate growth ambitions but also reflect strategic planning aligned with ecological and financial principles.

New industrial areas: Inter-municipal cooperation as a key

The development of inter-municipal industrial areas is a central component of Kiel’s economic strategy. In “Barkauer Land,” an 80-hectare industrial and commercial area is being planned jointly by the municipalities of Großbarkau, Honigsee, and Klein Barkau. The feasibility study, which began in 2026, is being supported by Kiel with 45,000 EUR.

Another key focus is the expansion of the IKG Lehmkaten. With 13.36 hectares of net construction land, marketing is planned to be completed by 2026. Development will take place between 2026 and 2028, primarily financed by low-interest loans from the state of Schleswig-Holstein (16.8 million EUR) and up to 3.8 million EUR in subsidies. Particularly noteworthy is the decision to forgo a central heating system based on fossil fuels in favor of heat pumps – a clear signal for climate-friendly infrastructure for business.

Financing and sustainability – how is it paid for?

The financing of industrial area development in Kiel is transparent and sustainably planned. For the Barkauer Land project, Kiel covers the costs of the feasibility study, while partner municipalities contribute additional funds. The natural capital accounting is fully financed by KielRegion, underscoring the regional cooperation.

In the Lehmkaten project, a loan amounting to 16.8 million EUR is involved, with expected marketing revenues of 12.865 million EUR. In the long term, costs are to be covered by compensatory business tax revenues. This financing strategy demonstrates how Kiel maintains the balance between investment and return.

Infrastructure and mobility: The prerequisites for economic growth

The planned industrial areas benefit from existing infrastructure. All projects are located near motorways (A 21) and regional roads (B 503), ensuring good transport connectivity. Additionally, a truck charging park is being discussed, which could improve logistics for the economic region.

The estimated development costs for Lehmkaten are approximately 6 million EUR. Detailed costs for internal and external infrastructure have already been outlined, providing planning security for investors.

Labor market and economic structure: Kiel as a naval base

Kiel strongly benefits from its role as a naval base and has, in recent years, also established itself as an attractive location for defense technology companies such as Rohde & Schwarz. These companies plan to create hundreds of new jobs in Kiel.

In Altenholz and Dänischenhagen, the service sector dominates with 77%, with the IT industry (e.g., Dataport) being strongly represented. Although the manufacturing sector is underrepresented, crafts and light industry are growing. In addition, the Kiel Job Center has recorded a significant reduction in the number of people in need of assistance since 2005, with nearly 74,000 consultations and 3,800 new applications recorded in 2025.

Partnerships strengthen economic development

Kiel emphasizes the importance of inter-municipal cooperation in its economic policy. The KiWi GmbH is responsible for project management in Barkauer Land and Lehmkaten. In addition, Kiel cooperates closely with economic development agencies in the district of Plön and the Amt Preetz-Land.

Regional coordination is provided by the KielRegion GmbH, which promotes strategic developments. The Development Partnership Altenholz-Dänischenhagen-Kiel, which has existed since 1997, is another example of long-term partnerships. The planning procedures are carried out via the IPP and include feasibility studies and urban development planning.

Outlook: Kiel as a forward-looking economic location

The decisions and projects from February 2026 show that Kiel is actively working on the future of its economic location. With inter-municipal cooperation, sustainable infrastructure and clear financial conditions, the city has set a clear course. The coming years will show how these measures will influence the labor market, the economic structure and regional development – and whether Kiel can strengthen its title as a "naval base" economically.