First Joint Tradespeople's Parking Permit in Ludwigsburg County
The first project under the Ludwigsburg County Future Strategy is now being successfully implemented: As of September 1, the new countywide tradesperson parking permit is in effect in Ludwigsburg County. It is intended for trades businesses that need to park their vehicles—along with materials, machinery, tools, or specialized equipment—close to their work sites. Under the leadership of the District Economic Development Office and with the support of the Ludwigsburg District Trades Association, the district’s transportation authorities have developed the tradespeople’s parking permit.
The Tradesperson Parking Permit is valid in all cities and municipalities within the district and includes the following exemptions:
- Exemption from parking fees on public streets
- Exemption from maximum parking duration limits (except in short-term parking zones with a limit of less than 30 minutes) and exemption from the requirement to use a parking disc
- Parking in areas with restricted stopping and in no-stopping zones, even outside the marked areas
- Parking in resident-only parking spaces
- Parking in traffic-calmed areas, even outside the marked areas
Eligible applicants are small businesses that require a service, workshop, or service van weighing up to 7.5 metric tons directly at the job site for their operations. The administrative fee is 200 euros per annual permit. Up to three vehicles can be registered on a single permit. If necessary, multiple permits may be requested.
Further information about the permit and the application process can be found at www.landkreis-ludwigsburg.de/handwerkerparkausweis
"Business in Focus": Innovation as the Key to New Growth
How can small and medium-sized businesses continue to grow successfully even in an era of artificial intelligence, geopolitical uncertainties, and far-reaching structural change? The answer from the approximately 160 representatives from business, politics, and local government who gathered for the fourth edition of “Wirtschaft im Gespräch” on July 27 at the Alte Kelter in Besigheim was clear: Anyone who wants to remain successful in the future must drive innovation, develop new skills, and actively shape change. The Ludwigsburg District, together with the Kreissparkasse Ludwigsburg and the City of Besigheim, hosted the networking event.
“The future of our business location is determined not only by technological developments, but above all by the people who shape them. That is why we bring together businesses, academia, and politics and foster dialogue on an equal footing,” said District Administrator Dietmar Allgaier. Especially in times of great change, he noted, it is important to learn from one another, share experiences, and jointly develop new perspectives for the region as a business hub.
The keynote address was delivered by Professor Dr. Katharina Hölzle, Executive Director of the Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering IAO and Director of the Institute for Ergonomics and Technology Management IAT at the University of Stuttgart. Drawing on the latest findings from technology foresight, she highlighted which technologies and business models will shape the economy in the coming years, including in the areas of smart manufacturing and bio-based materials. Here, German small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) benefit from their technological strengths and manufacturing expertise. “Transformation succeeds when companies actively shape their future, view new technologies as opportunities, and develop the necessary competencies within the company. With their innovative strength and proximity to customers, SMEs in particular have the key prerequisites for tapping into new growth opportunities,” emphasized Professor Dr. Hölzle.
In the panel discussion that followed, she spoke with Hanno Höhn, Managing Director of MANN+HUMMEL Germany and Chief Performance Officer, as well as Dr. André Konzelmann, Managing Director of Konzelmann GmbH, about how companies can successfully navigate this transformation. In addition to technological innovation, successful transformation also requires qualified employees, an innovation-friendly corporate culture, and leaders who actively support change. Equally crucial are the courage to question existing business models and the willingness to consistently pursue new paths.
With approximately 160 participants, “Wirtschaft im Gespräch” once again saw an increase in attendance and underscored its importance as a platform for exchange between business, academia, and the public sector. Through this event series, the Ludwigsburg District, the Kreissparkasse Ludwigsburg, and the City of Besigheim are jointly demonstrating their commitment to an innovative, competitive, and sustainable business location.
The Department of Labor Issues Permits for Asbestos Work
Companies that perform demolition work in areas classified as low or medium asbestos risk must obtain a permit for such work by December 19, 2026, at the latest. This is provided for in an amendment to the Hazardous Substances Ordinance, which will take effect as early as 2026. Commencing demolition work without a valid permit will constitute an administrative offense in the future.
The Trade Inspection Department of the District Office issues permits for businesses located in the Ludwigsburg district. For more information on the permit and the application process, visit the Ludwigsburg District Trade Inspection website at www.landkreis-ludwigsburg.de/landratsamt-landkreis/kreisverwaltung/dezernat-ii-umwelt-technik-bauen/fb-24-gewerbeaufsicht/asbest/. Fees apply for the issuance of a permit.
Businesses that already hold a license for activities involving a high risk of asbestos exposure (such licenses are typically issued by the regional councils) do not require a separate permit under the new regulations, as this is covered by their existing license.
Creative Spaces in the Stuttgart Region: Seeking Innovative and Sustainable Concepts
Through their “Creative Spaces Region Stuttgart” competition, Wirtschaftsförderung Region Stuttgart GmbH (WRS) and the International Building Exhibition 2027 Stuttgart Urban Region (IBA’27) are once again seeking innovative and sustainable concepts for creative workspaces in the Stuttgart region. This marks the sixth edition of the competition. Five prizes totaling 25,000 euros will be awarded.
Eligible to participate are individuals, networks, companies, and organizations of all kinds that operate or are planning to operate cross-sector creative spaces in the Stuttgart region. The competition seeks innovative spatial concepts that provide a special impetus for sustainability. Additional criteria include networking within the industry and with various stakeholders, local and online reach, as well as the project’s viability and feasibility. The quality of the submission and the appeal of the proposal will also be evaluated.
Project proposals for the “Creative Spaces Region Stuttgart” competition can be submitted from now until October 20, 2026.
Further information can be found on the website kreativ.region-stuttgart.de/creativespaces26
Free Energy Consulting for Businesses in Ludwigsburg County
Many companies have untapped potential to save energy or use it more efficiently, for example through sophisticated concepts for space and process heating or waste heat. Regional companies that wish to identify valuable savings opportunities and commit to climate protection can currently take advantage of LEA’s consulting services free of charge, thanks to funding from the Ludwigsburg district.
During the introductory energy consultation, companies receive a general assessment of their current energy situation. Based on this, the consultants outline possible steps companies can take to use energy more efficiently and make effective use of available funding.
The Ludwigsburg District Energy Agency (LEA) is the regional point of contact for energy efficiency, the heating transition, construction, renovation, and urban development in the Ludwigsburg district. In addition to its technical expertise, the LEA is involved in the development of municipal heating plans and can identify resulting opportunities for businesses.
For more information on these services, visit www.lea-lb.de/angebote/unternehmen/energieeinstiegsberatung/
Brillen-Mosqua Named One of the Top 100 Opticians for the Tenth Time
Brillen-Mosqua in Ludwigsburg has once again been named among the exclusive group of Germany’s Top 100 Opticians. The awards were presented by the well-known entertainer, author, and Bambi and Grimme Award winner Wigald Boning. Owner and Managing Director Markus Stammberger—along with the entire team—is justifiably proud of this special recognition, which his company has now received for the tenth consecutive year. To mark the tenth consecutive award, Mosqua executive Tatjana Chirico was also honored to accept the golden certificate of honor, alongside another company from northern Germany.
The selection of the TOP 100 Opticians takes place as part of an independent, multi-stage competition process. The BGW Institute for Innovative Market Research in Düsseldorf is responsible for the methodological implementation, supported by an independent jury drawn from the fields of business administration, market research, and marketing.
The award-winning businesses stand out for their high level of personal attention, commitment to service, and consistently customer-oriented management. For more information, visit www.top100optiker.de.
Energy & Climate Business Network: October 1 and November 26
Embedding climate protection in businesses is a complex task. Workflows, processes, and structures must be reimagined, and technologies must be implemented. At the same time, there are many opportunities, such as cost savings through efficiency gains, greater independence from energy prices, and funding opportunities.
Together with the City of Ludwigsburg, the Ludwigsburg District supports companies in this effort by offering expert presentations, sharing best practices, and fostering collaboration among businesses. The Energy & Climate Business Network is a project of the Future Strategy for the Ludwigsburg District as a Business Hub and a component of the initiative “Exchange and Networking Formats for Local SMEs.”
Two meetings are scheduled for the coming weeks:
Thursday, October 1, 2:00–5:00 p.m. Focus: Electric Mobility & Vehicle Fleets at the KUZ, Ludwigsburg
- Last-minute registration is possible until Tuesday (September 29) at the following address:Energy & Climate Business Network: “Electric Mobility & Vehicle Fleets – Opportunities, Strategies & Challenges” – Ludwigsburg
Thursday, November 26: Insights into the family-owned business HUOBER BREZEL: EMAS, organic products, and corporate social responsibility in action. Further information will be published in the coming weeks.
The Business Network is open to all interested companies. Participation does not require membership and is free of charge. You can always find the latest information about the meetings at Climate Protection in Businesses | Ludwigsburg. If you’d like to be notified directly about upcoming events, sign up for the mailing list on the page mentioned above.
Are you already an expert and would like to present your company? Become a host and contact us at: inge.guensel[at]landkreis-ludwigsburg.de
Welcome Service Office Hours in Ludwigsburg County
The Welcome Service Region Stuttgart (WSRS) offers regular consultation hours in the Ludwigsburg district. Small and medium-sized businesses that employ—or plan to employ—foreign skilled workers can receive free advice here on a variety of specific issues. This information service is also aimed at international skilled workers, their family members, and students who want to live and work in the Ludwigsburg district or who have recently moved there and need support.
The next consultation hours at the Ludwigsburg District Office will take place on the following dates:
Wednesday, Oct. 7, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Wednesday, November 11, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Registration for these sessions is required and can be made with Ms. Acevic at svetlana.acevic[at]region-stuttgart.de or by phone at +49 16221 52 728.
Address: Ludwigsburg District Office, Kreishaus, Room 405, Hindenburgstraße 40, 71638 Ludwigsburg
For more information, please visit https://welcome.region-stuttgart.de/.
Opening of the Tinkertank Co-Making Space
The so-called Tinkertank Co-Making Space Ludwigsburg will open on October 14 at 5:30 p.m. on the Franck site in Ludwigsburg. This is a makerspace with co-working facilities that, starting this year, will host an open startup workshop every other Thursday. The project was initiated by the Ludwigsburg Economic Development Agency and Tinkertank, an initiative of the Interactive Media Foundation gGmbH. Half of the project’s funding comes from the Stuttgart Region Association as part of the “Economy and Tourism” program.
At the kickoff event, Mayor Dr. Matthias Knecht and a representative of the Stuttgart Region Association will welcome attendees and officially open the space. Following that, Andreas Sedlmayr of Instagrid GmbH will deliver a keynote address explaining why makerspaces are important for businesses and startups. A subsequent panel discussion will address the venue’s successes to date and its future potential.
The event is aimed at companies interested in workshop infrastructure, collaborative tinkering, and starting a business. Both established and new companies are welcome. Registrations can be sent to startup[at]ludwigsburg.de. Event address: Franck-Areal, Pflugfelder Str. 23, 71636 Ludwigsburg
The project “Ludwigsburg: A Startup-Friendly City—Places of Innovation” is supported by the Stuttgart Region Association as part of the “Program for Co-Financing Regional Model Projects and Collaborations in the Fields of Business and Tourism.”
ArenaLab Innovation Day at the MHP Arena in Ludwigsburg
At ArenaLAB, a joint initiative of MHP RIESEN Ludwigsburg, Stadtwerke Ludwigsburg-Kornwestheim, and the Ludwigsburg Innovation Network, companies, startups, and creative minds develop solutions for specific challenges related to professional sports and the MHPArena. The focus is on the future of the fan experience as well as new solutions for smart, connected, and sustainable mobility in connection with major events.
On Thursday, October 22, 2026, the best ideas will be selected at the ArenaLAB Innovation Day at the MHPArena in Ludwigsburg. The finalists will present their solutions in concise three-minute pitches. Afterward, they will each spend ten minutes answering questions from the jury and the audience. At the conclusion of the event, the winners of the first ArenaLAB will be honored.
Reception: starting at 3:30 p.m.
Start: 4:00 p.m.
Awards ceremony: starting around 7:00 p.m., followed by a get-together
Experience innovative solutions to current issues shaping the future, get to know promising startups, and network with people who are actively working on the future of our region. Take this opportunity to gain new inspiration for your business and meet potential partners for future projects. Link to registration.
Vaihingen Startup Forum
To help aspiring entrepreneurs get off to a successful start, the Economic Development Office of the City of Vaihingen an der Enz and the “Beraterhaus” regularly co-host the Vaihingen Startup Forum.
The next session will take place on Wednesday, November 4, at 6:00 p.m., at Vaihingen an der Enz City Hall.
Comprehensive information will be provided, particularly for those in Vaihingen an der Enz who are interested in starting a business, as well as for entrepreneurs planning to establish their business in Vaihingen an der Enz. Interested individuals from surrounding cities and towns are also warmly welcome to attend this event. Participation is free of charge.
The program covers many key aspects of starting a business: choosing the right legal structure, insurance, marketing, financing, funding opportunities, taxes, and bookkeeping. Another topic is the creation of a business plan, which is essential for a successful startup. In addition to expert presentations, the forum offers an opportunity to network with other entrepreneurs.
For more information, visit https://www.vaihingen.de/unsere-stadt/wirtschaft-stadtmarketing/existenzgruendung
“AI as a Competitive Advantage: Harnessing Its Potential and Setting the Course for Tomorrow Through Training!”
How can small and medium-sized businesses successfully leverage digitalization, artificial intelligence, and automation while also preparing their employees for the future? You’ll find answers to these questions at a practical event on November 18, 2026, starting at 4:00 p.m., on the Knowledge Foundation campus in the Salamander-Areal in Kornwestheim. The event is part of the “Events for SMEs” flagship project within the Ludwigsburg District’s future strategy.
Look forward to engaging keynote presentations by renowned experts from research and the business world on the opportunities and challenges of digital transformation. Learn which AI skills will be in demand in the future, how to implement digitalization step by step, and which application examples are already being used successfully today. In addition, you’ll gain valuable insights into how small and medium-sized enterprises can sustainably implement new technologies and provide targeted training for their employees. Take advantage of this opportunity for personal exchanges, networking, and one-on-one consultations on AI, continuing education, and transformation.
The event is organized by THE CHÄNCE – Continuing Education Scout for the Stuttgart Region, in cooperation with the Stuttgart Region Digitalization Center, the Ludwigsburg District, and the Knowledge Foundation at Reutlingen University, as well as with the support of the Ludwigsburg District Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK).
Participation in the event is free of charge but requires registration.
The program, registration options, and further information are available at https://zd-bb.de/events/wettbewerbsfaktor-ki/.
InvestRE – Promoting Investments in Resource Efficiency
The funding program for investment measures aimed at conserving resources and increasing resource efficiency in businesses—InvestRE—administered by the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of the Environment, Climate, and Energy, is aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises in Baden-Württemberg. Eligible for funding are investment measures aimed at conserving resources and increasing resource efficiency through the use of highly efficient technologies available on the market, such as
- the purchase of machinery and equipment that leads to a reduction in resource consumption,
- the implementation of processes that improve resource efficiency.
The funding focuses on resource conservation and efficiency in industrial processes at small and medium-sized enterprises as defined by the EU. The aim is to encourage investments that achieve the highest possible levels of resource conservation and efficiency, particularly in plant and process modernization. In addition, the program supports companies in implementing measures that enable the use of sustainable raw materials and other materials.
The investment must be located in Baden-Württemberg. Funding is provided as partial financing in the form of a non-repayable grant. This grant can cover up to 40 percent of eligible expenses. The minimum grant amount is 100,000 euros. This corresponds to eligible expenses of at least 250,000 euros.
Applications must be submitted to L-Bank. The Ministry of the Environment selects the applications based on project selection criteria. Applications can be submitted at any time at efre[at]l-bank.de. The State Agency for Environmental Technology BW is available to answer questions regarding the program’s content.
Funding is provided by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
All terms and conditions and contact information can be found at https://um.baden-wuerttemberg.de/de/umwelt-natur/umwelt-und-wirtschaft/angebote-fuer-unternehmen/foerderprogramm-investre
The application forms can be found at
https://efre-bw.de/,Lde/Startseite/EFRE+2021-2027/Investitionsfoerderung
As of now, the program is scheduled to run until the end of 2027.
