MÜNSTERLAND MIX
WHAT MAKES THIS BUSINESS LOCATION SPECIAL
The Münsterland region brings together internationally successful medium-sized companies with universities, research institutions, and a closely interconnected business ecosystem. Its location on the German-Dutch border extends this economic area beyond the region itself.
What particularly characterizes this location are the short distances between companies, academia, economic development agencies, and other partners. This creates an environment in which companies can quickly gain access to expertise, networks, and new partnerships.
A STRONG ECONOMY, STRONG PARTNERS
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) shape the economic structure of the Münsterland region. Family-owned businesses, specialized industrial firms, and internationally active companies form well-established value-added and supply chains.
This economic foundation is complemented by universities, research institutions, economic development agencies, and business networks. Short distances and direct contacts facilitate collaboration and access to regional expertise.
- Approximately 707,000 employees subject to social insurance contributions (at the workplace, as of June 2025) (Source: Federal Employment Agency)
- +20.1% employment growth 2015–2025 (North Rhine-Westphalia: +14.7%) (Source: Federal Employment Agency)
- +51.3% gross value added in the Münsterland region from 2013 to 2023 (North Rhine-Westphalia: +43.8%) (Source: NRW Bank)
KNOWLEDGE MEETS BUSINESS
Science and business go hand in hand in the Münsterland region. Universities and research institutions bring scientific expertise, new technologies, and qualified talent to the region. Companies contribute specific challenges, practical expertise, and market access. At this intersection, collaborations, research and technology transfer projects, and new applications emerge.
- 75,000 students
- 11 universities
- 153 patent applications per 100,000 working-age residents, 2019–2021 (North Rhine-Westphalia: 139) (Source: NRW.innovativ)
URBAN FLAIR AND RURAL IDYLL
Its location directly on the Dutch border provides access to two markets and expands the Münsterland region’s economic and innovation landscape. Companies can find business partners, universities, and research networks on both sides of the border. Cross-border collaborations bring together economic and technological expertise and open up additional opportunities for innovation and business development.
TECH.LAND is systematically expanding this collaboration. The German-Dutch program connects companies, universities, research institutions, and public partners in North Westphalia and the eastern Netherlands. The focus is on shared areas of expertise such as Advanced Manufacturing & Robotics, Energy (including batteries and hydrogen), Health & MedTech, and the Circular Economy.
- 5.7 million+ residents
- 480,000+ companies
- 20+ universities
TECH.LAND - TRANSFORMING BORDERS INTO CONNECTIONS
TECH.LAND - TRANSFORMING BORDERS INTO CONNECTIONS
TECH.LAND is a cross-border German-Dutch technology initiative that networks companies, research institutes and public institutions in the Münsterland, Emscher-Lippe and Eastern Netherlands regions. The aim is to strengthen innovative power and increase international competitiveness through close cooperation in key technologies.
At the heart of TECH.LAND are five strategic innovation clusters:
Battery Technology
With the Fraunhofer Research Institution for Battery Cell Production (FFB) in Münster and the MEET Battery Research Center, the region is becoming a leading hub for battery research and production.
Hydrogen
Over 100 companies and institutions are collaborating on projects utilizing hydrogen as an energy carrier, supported by initiatives like the cross-border hydrogen cluster.
Health & MedTech
Collaborations between institutions such as the University Hospital Münster and the TechMed Centre in Enschede foster innovations in medical technology and healthcare.
Circular Economy
The Chamber of Skilled Crafts Münster coordinates the circular economy cluster, which supports companies in developing production processes that close material loops, reuse waste materials, or reduce the use of primary raw materials.
Advanced Manufacturing & Robotics
Focusing on advanced manufacturing technologies, robotics, and digitization to enhance industrial competitiveness.
TECH.LAND offers investors access to a dynamic innovation ecosystem with strong networks, excellent research, and practical implementation. The initiative promotes technology transfer, facilitates access to funding, and supports the establishment of international companies.
