Saxony's innovative strength: Panter advertises at the East German Economic Forum

Saxony's innovative strength: Panter advertises at the East German Economic Forum

The East German Economic Forum (OWF) will take place in Bad Saarow, Brandenburg from May 18th to 20th, 2025. Saxony's Economics Minister Dirk Panter (SPD) will highlight the strengths of his state as a center for innovative companies. As part of his participation, Panter will take part in a panel discussion on the topic of business growth in Germany. He particularly emphasizes the potential of Saxon companies in key sectors such as the semiconductor industry, medical technology and Industry 4.0.

Over the years, Saxony has established itself as an ideal location for starting up companies and is characterized by a stable medium-sized sector. In view of the current economic challenges, the Free State plans to support companies through targeted funding measures to help them grow. Industry 4.0, which is considered the fourth industrial revolution, involves the digitalization and networking of industrial production processes and plays a crucial role for the future of Saxony's economy.

Common interests and regional strengths

Panter emphasizes the importance of pursuing the common interests of the East German states in important economic areas such as automobile manufacturing, microelectronics, the steel industry and chemistry. The federal states should pool their strengths in order to be able to represent the interests of the East more effectively vis-à-vis the federal government and the EU. The OWF is considered a central platform for the exchange of economic developments in East Germany, and this year the focus is on the motto “Next Level”, which aims to show paths for growth and economic transformation.

An important component of the OWF is the annual VORSPRUNG business prize, which is awarded to outstanding business personalities. The patron of the prize is Carsten Schneider, State Minister and Federal Government Commissioner for East Germany. An independent jury consisting of representatives from politics, business, science and business media decides on the awards.

Prize winners and their significance for the region

Each of the six eastern German federal states nominates both established companies and start-ups for the prize, with one prize being awarded per federal state. In addition, an additional prize will be awarded to a promising start-up. The award winners are seen as role models for the transformation of the economy in East Germany and are characterized by a high level of innovation and sustainable growth. The award-winning companies include traditional companies as well as dynamic start-ups that have quickly established themselves as market leaders in their fields.

Overall, the OWF reflects the dynamic development of the East German economy and emphasizes the need for collaboration and innovation in order to continue to be successful in the future. Numerous companies are ready to show their strengths and contribute to the economic renewal of the region. Further information about the OWF and the VORSPRUNG business award can be found on the website South German newspaper and des East German Economic Forum to find.