For visionary entrepreneurs The business location Schleswig-Holstein

Schleswig-Holstein. ‘s True North.

Contents

Preface – 3

Reasons to choose Schleswig-Holstein Investment location Schleswig-Holstein – 4 Optimal position in Europe – 6 Great location for global business – 7 Leading industries – 8 Clusters in Schleswig-Holstein – 12 Specialists – 14 Potential subsidies in Schleswig-Holstein – 16

Tips and important information on residence permits, founding and taxing a company Entry and residence – 18 Founding a company in Germany – 20 Company taxation – 22 Chinese company chooses ­Schleswig-Holstein – 25

Work-life balance High quality of life – 26 Strong companies from Schleswig-Holstein – 29

One-Stop-Office Comprehensive service from WTSH – 30 WTSH networks – 31

Imprint – 32

2

Ladies and Gentlemen, Dr Bernd Bösche, ­Managing Director of the Wirtschafts­ förde­ rung­­­ Entrepreneurial decisions require vision and foresight. und Technologietransfer­ »Schleswig-Holstein. Germany‘s True North.« offers Schleswig-Holstein GmbH – the ideal ­location for your company, and an inspiring WTSH ­environment which makes it easier for you to make the right choice.

The northernmost federal state in Germany provides many But it is not only the hard location factors which speak advantages. Conveniently located for ­transportation, for Schleswig-Holstein. In our federal state, there is close Schleswig-Holstein is the gateway to the markets in cooperation between business, politics, ­administration ­Scandinavia, the Baltic states and in central and eastern and economic development. We don’t just have lengthy Europe. The basis for this is an infrastructure designed discussions about problems – we resolve them together. to meet the needs of the future. The A7 motorway, as the There is a good reason why the happiest people in most important north-south connection in Germany, is ­Germany live in the true north! The region between the being expanded to meet future needs, and will then have and the Baltic Sea is ideally suited for life and 6 lanes along most of the route. The Fehmarn Belt Fixed work. Link will establish another efficient transport connection with Scandinavia. With its fibre optic strategy, Schleswig- We cordially invite you: you could also be one of the Holstein is a pioneer nationwide, and is thereby creating ­entrepreneurs with vision and foresight. the most state-of-the-art broadband infrastructure in the We look forward to welcoming you. whole of Germany. Best regards, Schleswig-Holstein’s population will continue to develop on a stable basis in the coming years. Qualified, specialist staff are the foundation of a dynamic economy, and ensure that the SME-characterised industry of the state can further expand its strong market position. Dr Bernd Bösche

3 Investment location Schleswig-Holstein

• In 2016 goods to the value of 20.2 billion Euros were exported abroad from Schleswig-Holstein. • Lübeck (Germany's second-largest Baltic Sea port) alone handled a transshipment volume of 24 million tonnes. • There were 2.1 million passengers at the cruise and ferry Perfect location for business port of Kiel. The northernmost federal state in Germany lies in the • On the Kiel Canal, over 29,200 ships transported a total centre of Europe, directly on the main north-south of 83.7 million tonnes of cargo. ­transportation axis with Scandinavia. With its direct access to the North Sea and the Baltic Sea, Schleswig- Holstein is an important transport hub for northern and Thriving SMEs ­eastern Europe and the Baltic region. The close ­proximity Schleswig-Holstein is a state of the SMEs – 99 percent of to ­ also enables fast access to German and the companies are small or medium sized enterprises. ­world-wide markets via all transport routes.

Amount of internal ­expenditure 700 €689 for research and ­development 600 per employee subject to social €611 ­insurance contributions in 500 €502 Schleswig-Holstein €462 €477 400 €420 €409 €350 300

200

R&D expenditure per employee in € R&D expenditure 100

0 1999 2001 2003 2005 2007 2009 2011 2013

4 Source: Bundesagentur für Arbeit; Stifterverband für die Deutsche Wissenschaft Schleswig-Holstein in figures Superb climate for companies Schleswig-Holstein offers companies a very Surface area: 15,800 square kilometres ­business-friendly climate: Population: approximately 2.8 million inhabitants • high availability of qualified personnel Employed persons: approx. 1.35 million • low wage costs Gross domestic product: €85.6 billion • low local business taxes Change in GDP in 2015, • targeted transfer of technology and knowledge in price adjusted: 1.4 % compared to the previous year ­businesses Tourism: around 27 million overnight stays • moderate property and land prices Students: approx. 57,800 • modern financial assistance programmes and Students at vocational schools: approx. 92,300 expert advice • support from networks and clusters Source: Statistikamt Nord, as of 2015 • comprehensive support services for start-ups • fast Internet thanks to fibre optics and therefore unique across Germany

This creates the basis for very positive developments: Schleswig-Holstein is characterized by many business Many companies in the true north are highly ­specialised, ­start-ups, and a rate of high self-employment. internationally successful, and often world market ­leaders. In particular, important future industries are In addition, many companies from Germany and abroad ­highly-­represented: are drawn to the true north. So, for example, in 2016 a total • food industry of 154 new companies settled in Schleswig-Holstein, and • renewable energies thereby created 1,374 jobs. • healthcare industry • information and communication technology Schleswig-Holstein is also perceived as an attractive • logistics ­location internationally. In the year 2016 there were new • maritime economy arrivals from China, , Great Britain, Ireland and • mechanical engineering Japan. • medical technology • tourism

Commercial registrations per 10,000 inhabitants 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 Number of commercial Berlin 121.4 registrations per 10,000 inhabitants in Germany by Hamburg 114.4 federal state in 2015 Hesse 104.3 Bavaria 96.2

Schleswig-Holstein 93.2

Rhineland-Palatinate 87.2

Germany 87.1

North Rhine-Westphalia 86.5

Baden-Württemberg 84.8

Bremen 80.2

Lower Saxony 76.4

Saxony 73.1

Brandenburg 70.3

Saarland 70

Mecklenburg-West Pomerania 65.6

Source: Federal Statistical Office; Statistical Offices of the federal government and the federal states 5 Optimal position in Europe

Kemi Fast connections Flight times from Hamburg Airport to Oulu • Copenhagen: 50 mins. • Amsterdam: 1 hr 5 mins. • Frankfurt: 1 hr 10 mins.

• Zurich: 1 hr 25 mins. Holmsund

• London: 1 hr 40 mins. FINNLAND • Helsinki: 1 hr 55 mins. Tunadal • Moscow: 2 hrs 45 mins. Iggesund • Dubai: 6 hrs 20 mins. Rauma Kotka Uusikaupunki Turku Helsinki NORWEGEN SCHWEDEN Hanko NORWAY SWEDEN St. Petersburg Oslo Ust-Luga Stockholm Tallinn Skandinavien Paldiski Scandinavia ESTLAND RUSSLAND ESTONIA RUSSIA Moskau Baltikum Göteborg Baltic States Gothenburg Ventspils LETTLAND Riga LATVIA Liepaja DÄNEMARK LITAUEN DENMARK Kopenhagen Helsingborg Klaipeda LITHUANIA Copenhagen Malmö WEISSRUSSLAND Trelleborg Wilna BELARUS Kaliningrad IRLAND Rödby Baltijsk Minsk IRELAND Rendsburg Dublin Puttgarden Kiel Brunsbüttel Travemünde Osteuropa Lübeck Eastern Europe Großbritannien Hamburg Britain Bremen NIEDERLANDE Warschau VEREINIGTES KÖNIGREICH Amsterdam Warsaw UNITED KINGDOM NETHERLANDS Hannover Berlin London Kiew Rotterdam POLEN DEUTSCHLAND GERMANY UKRAINE Brüssel BELGIEN Brussels BELGIUM Prag Prague Luxemburg TSCHECHISCHE REP. Luxembourg CZECH REPUBLIC SLOWAKEI SLOVAKIA Bratislava Paris Wien Vienna

ÖSTERREICH Budapest AUSTRIA SCHWEIZ UNGARN RUMÄNIEN SWITZERLAND HUNGARY ROMANIA FRANKREICH Bern Ljubljana Bukarest SLOWENIEN Zagreb SLOVENIA KROATIEN Verona CROATIA BOSNIEN BOSNIA Belgrad Südeuropa Belgrade Southern Europe Sarajevo SERBIEN SERBIA Sofia BULGARIEN BULGARIA ITALIEN MONTENEGRO ITALY Skopje ALBANIEN MAZEDONIEN 6 Rom ALBANIA MACEDONIA Madrid Rome PORTUGAL Tirana

GRIECHENLAND Lissabon SPANIEN GREECE SPAIN

Athen Athens Great location for global business

The most important roadwork projects Kemi • 6-lane expansion of the A7 • further construction of the A20 Oulu Short distances • B404 to be upgraded to motorway between Travel time by car from Kiel to the A1 and A24 (per BVWP 2030) • Neumünster: 31 mins. • gaps to be closed in the A23, and expansion • Flensburg: 1 hr 5 mins. of the B5

Holmsund • Lübeck: 1 hr 11 mins. • 4-lane expansion of the B207

Husum • Hamburg: 1 hr 20 mins. • Fehmarn Belt Fixed Link FINNLAND Tunadal 7 Motorway FINLAND Iggesund Port Rauma Kotka Airport Uusikaupunki Aabenraa Turku Helsinki DÄNEMARK NORWEGEN DENMARK SCHWEDEN Hanko NORWAY SWEDEN St. Petersburg Tønder Oslo Ust-Luga Sønderborg Stockholm Tallinn Skandinavien Paldiski Scandinavia ESTLAND RUSSLAND ESTONIA RUSSIA Moskau Niebüll Baltikum Flensburg Göteborg Baltic States Gothenburg Dagebüll Ventspils LETTLAND Riga LATVIA Kappeln Liepaja 7 DÄNEMARK LITAUEN DENMARK Kopenhagen Helsingborg Klaipeda LITHUANIA Copenhagen Malmö WEISSRUSSLAND Schleswig Trelleborg Wilna BELARUS > Skandinavien > Baltikum Kaliningrad > Scandinavia > Ost Europa IRLAND Rödby Baltijsk Minsk > Baltic StatesOSTSEE Husum > Eastern Europe IRELAND BALTIC BAY Rendsburg Eckernförde Dublin Puttgarden Kiel Brunsbüttel Travemünde Osteuropa Lübeck Eastern Europe Friedrichstadt Großbritannien Hamburg Heiligenhafen Tönning Rendsburg Kiel Britain Bremen 210 St. Peter-Ording NIEDERLANDE Warschau Oldenburg VEREINIGTES KÖNIGREICH Amsterdam Warsaw UNITED KINGDOM NETHERLANDS in Holstein Hannover Berlin 215 London Kiew Rotterdam POLEN Heide DEUTSCHLAND POLAND Plön Malente > Scandinavia GERMANY UKRAINE Büsum > Baltic States Nord-Ostsee-Kanal Bordesholm Eutin > Eastern Europe Brüssel BELGIEN NORDSEE Kiel Canal Brussels BELGIUM NORTHERN SEA Prag Meldorf Neustadt Prague TSCHECHISCHE REP. > Skandinavien Luxemburg Neumünster > Baltikum CZECH REPUBLIC SLOWAKEI 23 Luxembourg 21 > Ost Europa SLOVAKIA 7 Bratislava Pari s Bad Segeberg Wien Itzehoe Bad Bramstedt Bad Schwartau Vienna Brunsbüttel Lübeck Wismar ÖSTERREICH Budapest 20 AUSTRIA 20 SCHWEIZ UNGARN Cuxhaven RUMÄNIEN SWITZERLAND HUNGARY Kaltenkirchen ROMANIA FRANKREICH Bern Otterndorf FRANCE Ljubljana Bukarest Henstedt-Ulzburg SLOWENIEN Zagreb SLOVENIA KROATIEN Norderstedt Ratzeburg Verona CROATIA NIEDERSACHSEN BOSNIEN BOSNIA Belgrad LOWER SAXONY 1 Südeuropa Belgrade Mölln Schwerin Southern Europe Sarajevo SERBIEN Stade SERBIA Sofia BULGARIEN Bremerhaven 24 BULGARIA MECKLENBURG-VORPOMMERN MONTENEGRO Hamburg ITALIENWilhelmshaven Schwarzenbek ITALY Skopje Buxtehude ALBANIEN MAZEDONIEN Geesthacht Rom ALBANIA MACEDONIA 7 Madrid Rome Lauenburg PORTUGAL Tirana

GRIECHENLAND Ludwigslust Lissabon SPANIEN GREECE SPAIN

Athen Athens Lüneburg Leading industries

Industries with a future

The economy of Schleswig-Holstein is strongly represented in the sectors with above-average growth potential.

Logistics

Schleswig-Holstein is located in the centre of Europe, and is a strategically-­ important logistics location. Logistics ensures the ability to act and the ­competitiveness of all sectors. Through pioneering infrastructure projects such as the Fehmarn Belt Fixed Link, the expansion of the A7, A21 or the further ­construction of the A20, the dynamic development of the market in the Baltic Sea region will be further boosted.

With almost 3,200 companies and around 53,000 employees in the areas of transport, transshipment and Maritime economy warehousing, the logistics industry is one of the state’s most important The maritime economy in Schleswig-Holstein is of great importance for ­economic sectors, and is characterized the state, not least because of its location. The annual turnover of this by an outstanding growth potential. industrial sector is 9.2 billion Euros. The maritime economy has around 1,800 companies employing a good 42,000 people, and 15 educational Schleswig-Holstein is nationally and institutions and research facilities are active in this sector’s surroundings. internationally significant as a port location. As the only federal state with The core of the industry – in terms of turnover and employment access to two seas, it has ideal links figures – is made up of shipbuilding and its suppliers. But oceanography, to international shipping through the ­deep-sea technology and marine biotechnology are also important ports in Brunsbüttel, Kiel, Lübeck and cornerstones of the tangible technology transfer between science and ­Puttgarden, as well as the nearby Port industry in Schleswig-Holstein. of Hamburg. The Kiel Canal, which runs right through the state, is the most With the Maritimes Cluster Norddeutschland (MCN), Schleswig-Holstein ­frequently used artificial waterway in the together with Lower Saxony, Hamburg, Bremen and Mecklenburg-West world. The Elbe-Lübeck Canal creates Pomerania jointly strengthens the competitiveness of the industry, and a connection for inland waterway has numerous activities underway through the state initiative Zukunft ­transport between the Elbe and the Meer (sea our future). Baltic Sea.

8 Renewable energies

Schleswig-Holstein is leading the way for the energy transition and has relied on the development of renewable energies for many years. Over 100 percent of the gross electricity consumption in 2015 came from renewable energy sources. The national average is just under 33 percent. Wind energy

In this sector in 2015, there were In total, Schleswig-Holstein has over 200 companies and associations involved around 18,400 employees, of in the wind energy business. Through the development of wind energy which 12,200 were in the area ­utilisation, around 12,150 jobs have already been created in the industry in of wind onshore and offshore Schleswig-Holstein. Further jobs will be created through the development of energy, 5,100 in biomass, 700 in the offshore area. ­photovoltaics and 400 in the area of solar and geothermal energy. Due to its many kilometres of coastline on the North Sea and the Baltic Sea, The renewable energy companies Schleswig-Holstein is an ideal location for wind turbines. Schleswig Holstein's get plenty of political tailwind for 2,902 wind turbines generate a total output of 5,939 megawatts (as at: research, ­development, ­production, 31/12/2016). This means that Schleswig-Holstein's wind farms generate almost ­technology and distribution of as much electricity on land as 4 nuclear reactors. In addition to this, 947 German renewable energies. offshore wind power plants in the North Sea and Baltic Sea feed approx. 4,100 megawatts into the national grid (as at: 31/12/2016).

In the last five years, more than 1,400 authorisations have been issued for the construction (including re-powering) of wind power plants in Schleswig- Holstein. The expansion involves a total investment of more than 4 billion Euros.

9 Leading industries

Healthcare industry

The healthcare industry is excellently positioned in Schleswig-Holstein. The state has already achieved a top position nationally in terms of employment.

Medical technology is one of the most important and stable business sectors in Schleswig-Holstein. Together with ­pharmaceutical companies, the sector has developed into a dynamic business area in recent years. The healthcare industry is a driving force for innovation, growth and employment.

In 2015, companies in the medical technology industry in Schleswig-Holstein achieved approximately 1.6 billion Euros in sales, and employed over 9,200 people. Thereby, Schleswig-Holstein is one of the front runners nationwide in Germany.

The well-developed knowledge and research landscape also plays a significant role in the strength of the healthcare industry. The ­“sunrise“ (high-tech) industries are considered Food industry very important in terms of structural and ­business politics. As the second largest sector in manufacturing, the food industry is one of the most important economic areas in Schleswig-Holstein. With a 15 percent share of turnover in this category, it is also above the national average.

Traditionally, meat and milk processing are very important. Baking and confectionery manufacturing have increased in ­importance, and form a further key area in the sector’s broad mix. The ­predominantly small to medium-sized businesses are known for their high quality of production.

In 2015, sales in the over 260 companies with 20 or more ­employees totalled around 7 billion Euros. The food industry employs over 21,000 people in Schleswig-Holstein alone, and is well on course for growth both federally and at state level. foodRegio (The North German Food Processing Industry Network) plays a major role with its work, by helping companies to develop innovative solutions for ensuring a high level of food quality.

As such, the food industry has become a key sector for economic development in northern Germany, due to its great potential, ­innovative nature and its positive momentum of recent years.

10 The digital economy

The number of companies in ­information and communication ­technology has tripled in Schleswig- Mechanical Holstein since 1990. The approximately 13,500 companies in the industry are engineering of great importance to the regional ­economy. At 6.9 billion Euros (2014), mechanical engineering in Information and communication Schleswig-Holstein has the ­technology is also a vital catalyst for highest turnover among the product and process innovations in manufacturing sector. It other sectors, such as the energy accounts for 18 percent of the industry, plant construction and total production in this sector within Schleswig-Holstein. That makes ­mechanical engineering, logistics or ­mechanical engineering, with around 21,000 employees and a high gross the healthcare industry. Through this value creation, one of the main pillars of the Schleswig-Holstein economy. special multi-sectoral function, the digital economy plays a significant role In addition to strong domestic demand, mechanical engineering “Made in in the overall economic development Schleswig-Holstein“ is also in demand worldwide. The high export share of of Schleswig-Holstein. about 65 percent underlines this statement. The industry has particularly profited from opening up growth markets in the Baltic Sea region, in Asia and in America.

Mechanical engineering companies invest especially heavily in research and development and are therefore an important engine for innovation.

Tourism industry

With 1,190 kilometres of coastline and numerous beaches on two seas, around 300 lakes, 32,000 kilometres of river, and numerous natural, cultural and leisure ­attractions, Schleswig-Holstein is a real holiday paradise. As such, Schleswig-Holstein welcomes around 28 million overnight guests, and around 110 million ­day-trippers from the ­domestic tourism market per year.

Tourism is one of the key economic pillars for Schleswig-­ Holstein, and its turnover generates income and employment for the population. 7.9 billion Euros in gross revenues from the tourism industry, and 151,300 employees directly in tourism speak for themselves. Tourism in the state is an industry with positive development perspectives – and one of the few sectors which promises sustainable opportunities for income and employment of the population. Just in the last few years, many new and in particular high-quality hotels have opened in Schleswig-Holstein, which also offer the locals additional quality of life and leisure time.

11 Clusters in Schleswig-Holstein

The clusters organise activities such as: proximity. In order to increase the • information events competitiveness of the ­companies • practical forums Professional cluster management involved, skills and interests are • training, seminars The clusters and networks in bundled, and innovation is promoted. • workshops Schleswig-Holstein benefit from • working groups ­favourable location factors and ­spatial • project meetings • trade fair appearances

The Digitale Wirtschaft Schleswig- The Schleswig-Holstein Renewable foodRegio Schleswig-Holstein is the Holstein (DiWiSH, Digital Economy Energy Network Agency (EE.SH) networking organisation of the north Schleswig-Holstein) cluster supports supports companies from the sectors German food industry, and has set and promotes small and medium- of wind power, photovoltaic, biomass, the following goals: sized enterprises in the IT and media network and storage technology as • strengthening the ­competitiveness sectors as well as the design industry well as other market-ready renewable of the foodRegio member in Schleswig-Holstein, and has the energies. ­companies ­following objectives: Tasks and objectives: • supporting profitable and • strengthening the software • networking sectors with each other ­sustainable business growth in ­development expertise and and with industrial consumers, foodRegio transfer of skills in future-orientated, municipalities and politicians • establishing foodRegio as a Schleswig-Holstein Industry 4.0 • supporting the development of ­relevant and attractive location applications new products and services, as well at the supra-regional and ­(inter) • expanding networking in the as the enhancement of regional national level industry in emerging fields research achievements, through • fully utilising (regional) ­potential • contributing to retaining specialists active innovation management to maintain and strengthen and intensification of industry and • supporting the development foodRegio location marketing of new markets through the • initiating and implementing: • contributing to the promotion of ­promotion of foreign trade • trend day broadband internet expansion • supporting the development of • marketing day • promoting knowledge and industrial areas on the basis of • foodRegio marketing menu ­technology transfer between the ­renewable energies digital and the design economy • international location marketing

➜ www.diwish.de ➜ www.ee-sh.de ➜ www.foodregio.de

12 LIFE SCIENCE NORD

Life Science Nord is committed to The states of Hamburg, Lower Saxony, Tourismus-Cluster Schleswig-Holstein innovative medicine in Hamburg Mecklenburg-West Pomerania, The tourism cluster management, and Schleswig-Holstein. The cluster’s Bremen and Schleswig-Holstein are together with other partners, is objectives are: working together in the Maritimes ­responsible for ongoing support of • strengthening the ­competitiveness Cluster Norddeutschland (MCN), and the implementation of the Tourism of the LSN region by have set themselves the following Strategy Schleswig-Holstein 2025. ­training ­professionals and goals: Core tasks and objectives are: ­internationalisation • strengthening the international • monitoring and controlling the • supporting innovation and competitiveness of the companies implementation of the Tourism ­increasing value creation in the • promoting technology transfer bet- ­Strategy Schleswig-Holstein 2025 areas of medical technology, ween science and businesses • increasing the competitiveness of ­pharmaceuticals and biotechnology • developing innovative projects hotel and restaurant operators, and • intensifying exchanges and and promoting technological companies in the leisure industry ­cooperation between science and ­competence • promoting sustainable develop- business within the sector • increasing regional value creation in ment of tourism in the state • increasing the national and northern Germany • expanding knowledge transfer and ­international visibility of the cluster • creating and safeguarding cooperation and its skills ­sustainable jobs • strengthening the national • initiating, designing and ­monitoring • improving the visibility of maritime ­networking of the sector of national and international skills • communication and public relations ­projects work

➜ www.lifesciencenord.de ➜ www.maritimes-cluster-nord.de ➜ www.tourismuscluster-sh.de

13 Specialists

Vocational schools FI.SH Training and retaining skilled workers are important factors for the economy. The diverse range of educational In the Schleswig-Holstein specialist initiative FI.SH, business, politics, science, ­programs at vocational schools municipalities and trade unions work together to ensure permanent security of offers pupils the required specialised highly-skilled workers. This is done by ­training for a particular profession • improving the transition of young people from school to higher education or a specific professional field, and and work, ­enables the acquisition of all relevant • increasing the attractiveness and quality of the dual education system, German qualifications: • promoting targeted cooperation between universities and businesses, • Berufsschule • increasing the participation of women, and • Fachoberschule • creating a welcoming culture, • Berufsoberschule together with acquiring external • Berufsfachschule ­specialists. • Fachschule

Approximately 92,300 students are currently studying at the 33 public The dual education system vocational schools in Schleswig-­ The dual system of vocational ­training Holstein. and studying is very successful in ­Germany. This is why the state government of Schleswig-Holstein Further education and training also promotes strengthening the dual In addition to apprenticeships education system, and supports it and degrees, training and further financially, for example through the ­education institutions offer a regional support for apprenticeships. ­complete and locally-available range IHK Chambers of Commerce and of over 24,000 courses. The heart of in-company vocational Industry, Chambers of Crafts ➜ www.SH.Kursportal.info training is learning while actually Because qualified employees are being in qualifying and value-adding the key to success, the ­chambers work processes. The apprentices of ­commerce and industry and the ­contribute to productivity even while chambers of crafts promote the they are still learning. The in-company high education level of member Vocational training situation in 2015 vocational training is to some extent a ­companies, and support all self-financing education. ­entrepreneurs who want to create Sector Number of contracts new apprentice places. Trade and industry 10,545 By being integrated into the ongoing Craft 6,417 work processes, the apprentices With the shared training ­opportunities Liberal professions 1,809 are always technologically and service provided by the ­chambers Agriculture 834 ­organisationally up to date, based of commerce, young people and Public service 516 on the current state of develop- companies can be brought together Domestic services 57 ment. Many high school pupils who even better in future. Companies Maritime 21 are ­eligible for university admission with branch offices can enter their Total 20,196 also choose this attractive form of available positions centrally, and ­education. search for apprentices for their Source: The Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB), survey from 30 September 2015 ­locations. ➜ www.ihk-lehrstellenboerse.de 14 Education and research The universities Research institutions

Training university graduates is one 57,800 students are currently taking The university landscape is of Schleswig-Holstein’s strengths. advantage of the diverse range of ­supplemented by highly-successful, Companies benefit from this, and degree programmes offered by internationally-recognized, non-­ also from the high-quality research Schleswig-Holstein’s educational university research institutions. ­landscape, in which knowledge ­institutions, of which around 33,600 They cover the whole spectrum, transfer and teaching are practised at are studying at universities, and the from ­fundamental research and the highest level. rest at universities of applied sciences ­applications, through to knowledge and the arts and music colleges. and technology transfer.

IPN Leibniz-Institut für die Pädagogik der Naturwissenschaften und Mathematik

Flensburg

Kiel Heide Plön FACH HOCHSCHULE LÜBECK Itzehoe Borstel University of Applied Sciences Elmshorn Lübeck Reinfeld Pinneberg

Wedel Geesthacht

15 Potential subsidies in ­Schleswig-Holstein

WTSH supports companies on their way to finding the appropriate subsidy programme.

We answer questions on • projects eligible for subsidies, • selecting the correct subsidy programme, • requirements for obtaining a subsidy, • making an application, • alternative financing options.

Investment support

Operational investment support • the acquisition of an establishment threatened with Individual investment support is offered as part of the ­closure, state economic programme. WTSH is happy to make • diversification of an establishment’s production into ­contact with the service provider engaged by the state, ­products not previously manufactured, the ­Investitionsbank Schleswig-Holstein, and work with • undamental change in the entire production process ­companies throughout the process. of an existing establishment.

The objective of this funding support is to improve the regional economic structure in combination with the Internationalisation of small and medium-sized ­procurement or securing of permanent jobs that are ­enterprises (SMEs) and market development abroad ­subject to social insurance contributions. SMEs are supported when targeting new foreign ­markets, and their international competitiveness is also Investment projects can attract a subsidy of up to 20 % of strengthened. the total investment sum. The actual amount of funding The measures include depends on the following factors, among others: • advice to assess the export opportunities of goods and • the precise location of the business within services, ­Schleswig-Holstein, • participation in and implementation of international • the size of the company, trade fairs and exhibitions in Germany and abroad, • the type of investment, • designing innovative offers and products to develop • the number of planned new permanent positions. international source markets abroad for the tourism industry. The funds are provided as a non-repayable grant. Investments eligible for support include: Details of all of the support programs can be obtained • projects for expansion or construction, from the IB.SH and the WTSH.

16 Innovation support

Innovation support is provided as part of the state ­economic programme in the form of a non-repayable grant for innovative projects.

The WTSH has been tasked by the state with the ­implementation of this support programme, and is your central contact point in the application, approval and accounting phases.

Primary goals of the innovation support • Strengthening innovation abilities, competitiveness as Who is eligible? well as sustainable economic growth for Schleswig- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will be Holstein’s companies given priority, and provided with higher rates of ­support. • Increasing the capacity for innovation and the transfer ­Subsidies for process innovations are exclusively available of technology to SMEs, while subsidies for innovation assistants are • Creating future-orientated jobs, in particular in the reserved for small and young companies which were field of research and development ­established less than five years ago.

Key topics How much funding is provided? The focus is placed on sectors such as the maritime Company innovation projects can attract a subsidy of up to ­economy, life sciences, renewable energies, the food 50 % of the eligible project costs. The maximum amount industry and information technologies. Other sectors of the subsidy is determined by the underlying subsidy can also apply for funding for project ideas, especially ­guidelines, and takes various criteria into account (e.g. if a ­company with a new innovation could become a company size, project content). In special cases, funding ­technology or market leader. up to a maximum of 80% may be granted.

What is supported? What is funding available for? • Research, development and implementation of new Depending on the respective subsidy guidelines, ideas, knowledge and technologies in market-ready the ­eligible costs of an innovation project include, in ­products and processes ­particular: • Process and organizational innovation with new or • personnel costs ­significantly improved methods for production and • overhead costs ­services • material costs • System solutions in interdisciplinary cooperation • costs for external services ­between industry and science • investment costs and/or costs for instruments and • Production and distribution of energy from renewable ­equipment energy sources • Increasing energy and resource efficiency or the use of Details on innovation support are available from the WTSH renewable energies and at www.wtsh.de. • Hiring scientifically-qualified personnel (innovation ­assistants)

17 Entry and residence

Visa EU citizens Citizens of the EU and the EEA member states of Norway, Liechtenstein and Iceland may live and work for an Non-EU citizens ­unlimited period of time in Germany. They don't need a Nationals of non-EU countries require a visa to enter visa or any special permit. ­Germany. A distinction is made between: • Schengen visa and a national visa Swiss nationals must report long-term stays at the local • residence and permanent residence permits German immigration authority. The type of residence permit required depends on the Visa-exempt states applicant’s country of origin, the duration of the stay and Nationals of certain countries can enter Germany for the proposed activity in Germany. short visits of up to 90 days without a Schengen visa. These include, amongst others, nationals from Argentina, Schengen visa ­Australia, Brazil, Chile, Israel, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, For short stays in Germany of up to 90 days, non-EU Canada, South Korea, USA, Singapore and Hong Kong. ­citizens require a Schengen travel visa or business visa. Normally, with this visa, all the necessary steps for setting If the stay is longer than 90 days, or employment is to be up a business in Germany can be carried out. carried out in Germany, then a national visa is required for entry. Exceptions apply here too for nationals from A Schengen visa is usually issued by the respective ­Australia, Israel, Canada, Japan, New Zealand and South German embassy or consulate in the applicant’s country of Korea, who may enter for up to 3 months even without a origin. national visa. National visa Detailed information is available at the federal Foreign For stays in Germany of more than 90 days, a national Office. visa is required for entry. This is issued by the respective ➜ www.auswaertiges-amt.de German embassy or consulate.

For a longer stay, a residence or permanent residence permit is required.

18 Residence and permanent residence permits

The path to running your own business The path for employees Entrepreneurs from non-EU states who operate their Workers from non-EU countries need a residence permit ­business locally in Germany as self-employed persons, to work as employees in Germany. need a residence permit for exercising self-employed ­activity. This is issued for a fixed term, usually for up to three years. An extension is possible. In general, a permanent Exception: if the self-employed activity is not carried out ­residence permit can be issued after five years. for longer than three months, a Schengen visa may be ­sufficient. In principle, the immigration authorities will only issue a residence permit for employees in certain professional Self-employed entrepreneurs generally receive a groups (e.g. academics, IT professionals, senior executives ­residence permit if the following criteria are met: and specialists, staff exchanges) and even then, only if • There is an economic and/or regional interest. • a specific offer of employment can be presented, and • The investment project is expected to have a positive • the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für impact on the economy. Arbeit) has given its approval. • The financing is secured. Exceptions: employing senior managers, amongst others, does not need to be approved by the Federal Employment­ The local immigration authority checks each investment Agency. project individually to determine whether these conditions are met. In particular, they evaluate “EU Blue Card“ for highly-qualified individuals • the viability of the business idea, The “EU Blue Card“ makes it easier for highly-qualified • the business experience of the investor, workers from non-EU states to get a job in Germany. The • the capital to be invested, requirements for applying for the EU Blue Card are: • the effect of the investment project on the (regional) • a German university degree or a proven comparable employment and training situation, qualification, and • the expected contribution to innovation, research and • an employment contract with a gross annual salary of at development in Germany. least 48,400 Euros (2015).

The residence permit for self-employed persons is If they can provide evidence of their German language limited to a fixed term, mostly for up to three years. If the skills, EU Blue Card holders can obtain a permanent ­investment project is successful, and if the success and ­residence permit after just 21 months, otherwise after livelihood seem to continue to be secured, permanent 33 months. residence may be applied for after three years.

All information provided is based on the latest market information at the time of publication. The WTSH assumes no liability for the information provided being up-to-date, correct or complete. 19 Founding a company in Germany

For foreign investors, starting a business in Germany is straightforward. There is full access to all forms of ­company. Two models are presented below.

Founding a subsidiary

In Germany, foreign companies have the option of ­founding a subsidiary company, and can select various legal forms. The most popular form of corporation in ­Germany is the limited liability company, or Gesellschaft Steps for setting up a GmbH or UG mit beschränkter Haftung (GmbH). • The minimum share capital amounts to €25,000, which Preparing the articles of association can also be in the form of contributions in kind. For entry in the commercial register, proving that half the capital Certification by a notary has been contributed is sufficient. • The liability of the shareholders towards creditors is Opening a bank account and payment of the capital limited to the share capital. Entry into the commercial register through the notary The GmbH has two necessary organs: one or more ­managing directors, and the annual general meeting. Registration as a business, • Managing directors manage and represent the company any additional permits/registrations where applicable to the outside world. • Managing directors are subject to the instructions of the shareholders and are bound by their decisions. Set-up time: about 1-2 weeks • Nationality and residency of the managing director are Founding costs: GmbH approx. €800, UG approx. €300 irrelevant.

The entrepreneurial company (limited liability), or UG/Unternehmergesellschaft (haftungsbeschränkt), is a special form and entry-level variant of the GmbH. • The minimum share capital amounts to €1. • The UG must build up share capital and provide for a Advantages reserve every year: at least a quarter of the annual net + Shareholders are entitled to issue binding profit. ­instructions to the managing director(s) • As soon as the minimum share capital (€25,000) + Liability of the parent company is limited to the required to form a GmbH has been accrued, the UG share capital can be transformed into a GmbH. + Parent company can be shareholder + Managing director(s) do not have to be resident in Germany

20 Foreign Company

Founding a new Part of the foreign ­company ­company

Subsidiary Branch office

Corpo-­ Partner­- Mixed Independent Dependent ration ship forms GmbH/UG GbR GmbH & AG oHG Co. KG KGaA KG

Company presence on the German market

Founding a branch office Steps for founding an independent branch office Foreign companies can also found a branch office in Germany. It is – unlike a subsidiary – legally part of Decision-making by the foreign company on the the head office company, and has no separate legal ­establishment of a branch office ­persona. Entry into the commercial register through the notary • Independent branches have a certain degree of organisational autonomy in relation to their head Registration as a business, any additional office: permits/registrations where applicable • own management with authority to act and power to conclude agreements • own business assets Registration costs: approx. €300 • own bank account • independent bookkeeping • The branch can add its own name suffix to the name of the main company headquarters. • A minimum capital is not required. • The foreign headquarters are responsible for the branch’s liabilities, to the full extent of their assets. Advantages + Branch offices are legally part of the • Dependent branches are ­headquarters • subordinate departments of the main company + Enables quick entry into the German market • dependent on the main company • Correspondence and invoices are issued in the Disadvantages name of the headquarters – Full liability by the headquarters • Entry into the commercial register is not required, only business registration with the local trade office.

21 All information provided is based on the latest market information at the time of publication. The WTSH assumes no liability for the information provided being ­up-to-date, correct or complete. Company taxation

Income taxation of a corporation

The solidarity surcharge is a special levy which was introduced in 1995, in Solidarity surcharge: connection with financing the German The same throughout Germany 5.5 % of the 15 % reunification. 15 % ­corporation tax corporation tax on the The same throughout Germany taxable profits Corporations are subject to + ­corporation tax, but in the case of partnerships, the income of An average of the shareholder is taxed. 13 % local business tax The applicable business tax rate is defined locally by the ­municipalities, Varies locally and varies between 8.75 % and 15.75 % in Schleswig-Holstein (2015).

Average taxation of a corporation (2015) in an international comparison

0 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 %

Poland 19 %

United Kingdom 21 %

Germany (minimum) 22.83 %

The Netherlands 25 %

Canada (Ontario) 26.5 %

Spain 28 %

Germany (average) 29.83 %

Italy 31 %

Japan 32.79 %

Belgium 33.99 %

France 38 %

USA (New York) 39.62 %

Source: Federal Ministry of Finance (BMF) 22 VAT

Value-added tax is payable on the sale of goods and reduced VAT rate of 7 % applies. A sales tax ­exemption ­services. Companies are obliged to add VAT to their prices exists for certain services, such as banking and health for deliveries or services, and charge this sales tax to their ­services or non-profit work. customers. Companies that pay VAT on goods and services can The general VAT rate in Germany is 19 %, which is below offset these amounts against the VAT collected on the European average. For basic items and everyday invoices. As such, the actual VAT burden lies solely with ­services, such as food, newspapers or public transport, a private consumers.

Business tax

Business tax is an income tax on the profits of businesses. The trade tax rate is determined individually by the ­separate municipalities. In Schleswig-Holstein, the trade The respective business tax rate is made up of two tax rate is between 250 % and 450 %. The rate tends to be ­components: higher in urban areas than in rural regions. • the tax base rate (3.5 % nationwide) • and the trade tax rate (varies locally). There is no solidarity surcharge on business tax.

Base value for tax purposes = taxable income of the ­company x tax base rate (3.5 %)

Base value for tax purposes x local trade tax rate = ­business tax due

All information provided is based on the latest market information at the time of publication. The WTSH assumes no liability for the information provided being up-to-date, correct or complete. 23 E20

Kolding E20 Esbjerg Odense

DENMARK

Tax rates for  in %  –  Flensburg  – B a –  l  –  ti c  –  Husum Ba  –  y >  Forestry districts

a Kiel

e S

Heide

n r Neumünster e

h t r o Cartography: geodressing.de N Map data: © GeoBasis-DE / BKG 2015 Cuxhaven Lübeck

Schwerin Bremer- Wihelms- haven haven Hamburg

Trade tax rate in 2016 – examples of German cities

0 50 100 Bremen150 200 250 300 350 400 450 500 Ø Hamburg Kartografie: 470 Kartendaten: © GeoBasis-DE / BKG 2015 Ø Bremen 457 Ø North Rhine-Westphalia 449

Oberhausen 550 Duisburg 510 Dortmund 485 Düsseldorf 440

Ø Lower Saxony 397 Hannover 460 Braunschweig 450

Ø Bavaria 396 München 490

Ø Schleswig-Holstein 368 Kiel 430 Brunsbüttel 380 Itzehoe 370 Kaltenkirchen 325

Ø Mecklenburg-West Pomerania 369 Rostock 465 Schwerin 420

Ø Baden-Württemberg 365 Karlsruhe 430 Stuttgart 420

Source: Federal Statistical Office 24 Chinese company chooses ­Schleswig-Holstein

ANSEOS GROUP CO., LTD.

Area of activity: Medical technology Founded: 1998 Headquarters: China (Beijing) Number of employees: 40 It only took half a year from searching for a suitable ­location in Schleswig-Holstein to founding the company, Branch: Neumünster Anseos GmbH, in Neumünster. The company has already www.anseos.com been marketing and selling medical technology for 18 years in China, and now it is also doing so in Germany.

“The WTSH not only gave us good advice, but also ­conveyed an impression of Schleswig-Holstein’s great potential. We can find highly-skilled workers here, and the Life Science North cluster supports us in this process. A decisive advantage for us was also the location of the new site, close to the airport and to the Port of Hamburg,“ ­explained Yuan Wei, Managing Director of Anseos GmbH.

The company sees excellent cooperation and growth opportunities for medical technology in northern Europe, especially in the Nordic region. Yuan Wei, Managing Director of Anseos GmbH, 550 The proximity to Lübeck, with its excellent resources in the Neumünster and Beijing field of medical technology research, was a key reason for Anseos to set itself up in Neumünster. In addition, the good advice provided by the Chinese Business Center at the WTSH and the Logistics and Innovation Center ­(LOG-IN) made the decision easy. “Without the WTSH’s support and the Germany Trade & Invest (GTAI), we would not have been able to found our company so easily,“ said Yuan Wei.

The company has successfully mastered the first step: ­settlement. In the first year, the foundations for growth in Neumünster were laid. In the coming year, initial ­production will commence and research and development will be promoted.

Anseos and Schleswig-Holstein have now come very close – so close that the connection goes beyond the ­professional life: “I like to apply. Neumünster and Schleswig-Holstein also offer many opportunities for this“, says Yan Wei.

25 High quality of life

Schleswig-Holstein is convincing as a business location.­ It’s great to work here, and also great to live here! The state between the seas is unusually diverse, with its very ­different regions and rich cultural treasures. At the North Sea, dykes and the UNESCO World ­Heritage Site characterise the landscape, while the shores of the Baltic Sea have fascinating steep coastlines and white sandy beaches. Inland there are romantic lakes, The picturesque Hanseatic city of Lübeck, located directly on the gently ­rolling hills and many natural parks. The cities of River Schleswig-Holstein impress with their maritime character and historical buildings, such as Lübeck with its medieval Nature: endless diversity old town, which is part of the UNESCO world heritage. Two seas with countless beaches, the mudflat landscapes, In addition, there is a multitude of museums, unlimited many lakes, and an infinitely beautiful coastal landscape ­shopping possibilities and impressive cultural highlights. make Schleswig-Holstein a real paradise for water sports. Here, in their free time and after work, people can go The people of Schleswig Holstein: true and honest swimming, sailing, surfing, kitesurfing, diving, rowing and The clear, healthy air, the often harsh wind, the ­vastness, fishing. A pleasant work-life balance also includes sports the austere natural charm – all of this also affects the such as horse riding, golf, cycling and hiking. people. The people of Schleswig Holstein like things real, honest and clear. Germany's happiest people live in And Schleswig-Holstein has much more to offer nature- Schleswig-Holstein. This was confirmed once again with lovers: many nature reserves, conservation areas and the Glücksatlas (happiness survey) by the Deutsche Post. natural parks characterize the diverse flora and fauna. The Newcomers quickly feel right at home due to the calm and Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park is the most welcoming nature of the people in the true north. outstanding of these: Germany’s largest ­national park is part of the largest continuous tidal flats in the world, and was declared a World Natural Heritage Site in 2009. The natural park is considered the area in Europe which has the richest diversity of birds: in the spring and summer alone, more than 2 million tidal flat and water birds ­ roost here.

Wadden Sea near St. Peter-Ording

Dune coast in Scharbeutz

26 Endless sand dunes by the North Sea

Sport: active and successful In addition to water sports, handball in Schleswig-Holstein In Schleswig-Holstein, top-level sports on a ­world-class is world-famous. Not only one, but two teams – THW Kiel level can be admired: recognized by the sailing and SG Flensburg-Handewitt – are placed regularly at the ­competitions of the Olympic Summer Games, Kiel is top of the Bundesliga, and hold leading positions in the regarded as one of the world sailing metropolises, and is European league. the venue for the annual Kieler Woche, the largest ­sailing event in the world, and the biggest summer festival in Culture: ambitious and colourful ­northern Europe. Together with Travemünde Woche, the Schleswig-Holstein’s multi-cultural landscape also has a state proudly hosts two of the world’s biggest and most lot to offer. The musical summer highlights include the traditional sailing competitions. open-air opera at the Eutiner Festspiele, and of course the Jazz Baltica and the Schleswig-Holstein Musik ­Festival. Fehmarn and Sylt are very popular with surfers. Wester­ Here, the public can enjoy concerts, music festivals in land is the venue for the Surf World Cup, the largest the countryside and children’s music festivals with great ­international windsurfing event in the world. Kitesurfing ­international musicians. Castles, manor houses, barns, has established itself on the west coast and the east coast ­churches, but also shipyards and old industrial halls for some years now. Numerous kitesurfing competitions ­provide an ­atmospheric backdrop for the performances. take place in St. Peter-Ording, for example, and Fehmarn At the ­legendary Wacken Open Air – the biggest heavy hosts the Kitesurf World Cup. metal festival in the world – tens of thousands of hard rock and metal fans party together every year. Rowing also plays an important role in the true north. The Ruderakademie Ratzeburg (Ratzeburg Rowing Academy) A wide variety of museums, internationally renowned in Schleswig-Holstein is a world-famous training and high- ­theatres and opera houses provide a great cultural performance centre of the Deutscher Ruderverband e.V. ­offering, as do aspirational film festivals, or NordArt in (German Rowing Association). Büdelsdorf, the largest art fair in northern Europe.

Wacken Open Air: one of the world’s biggest heavy metal festivals

Water polo on the Kiel Fjord 27 Cuisine: excellent and regional Homeland: where you want to stay. 11 star chefs in total – three alone on the island of Schleswig-Holstein is one of the few regions in western Sylt – along with high-quality, often regional products, Europe whose population is growing steadily. As such, ensure an excellent culture of culinary delights in the true the proportion of young people is well above the German north. ­average.

The association FEINHEIMISCH – fine food from ­Schleswig-Holstein, the state-wide network of ­agricultural Migration balance: difference between incoming and outgoing producers and manufacturers, chefs and restaurants – ­migration for Schleswig-Holstein per 1,000 inhabitants from 2006 to 2015 functions as preserver and promoter of a food culture in Schleswig-Holstein that is pleasurable, sustainable and 9 regional. A special highlight is the annual Schleswig-­ 8 Holstein Gourmet Festival. Here, renowned chefs from all over Europe spoil their guests. 7

6

Home: unique and comfortable 5 You will find your very special home in Schleswig-­ Holstein. The range and the selection of affordable real 4 estate is large, and even the most exceptional locations 3 can be found here. There are visionary new construction projects, or re-purposed, historic buildings in the best balance per 1,000 inhabitants Migration 2 positions on the waterfront. 1

0 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Source: Federal Statistical Office

The City of Kiel

28 Strong companies from ­Schleswig-Holstein

Harrislee Flensburg

Husum Eckernförde Altenholz Büdelsdorf Schönkirchen Kiel Schwentinetal Rendsburg Heide Flintbek Hemmingstedt Malente Neumünster Hohenlockstedt Travemünde Brunsbüttel Bad Schwartau Büttel Elmshorn Kaltenkirchen Lübeck Norderstedt Rellingen Bargteheide Ahrensburg Wedel Schwarzenbek

LEICHTMETALL-GETRIEBE EVAC TRAIN MIT GLATTMOTOREN 0,37 – 1,1 kW

29 Comprehensive service from WTSH

• We point out potential subsidies, • guide you directly to the state’s financing and Schleswig-Holstein is the right location for investments. funding agencies, And the WTSH (Business Development and Technology • provide support with arranging the financing. Transfer ­Corporation of Schleswig-Holstein) provides the service required for founding, expanding or relocating Implementation businesses. WTSH is a ­competent partner for all aspects • We are an application and approval institution and all phases of the process – ­offering customised and in Schleswig-Holstein for innovation support, the targeted ­expertise. ­promotion of ­renewable energies as well as for the ­internationalisation support programme, Site location assistance • we assist with negotiations with the authorities, • We provide you with information about the Schleswig- • make a network available to get in contact with public Holstein economic region and the infrastructure and private institutions in the state, available, • provide support with applications and approval • search for suitable areas and real estate for your ­processes. ­investments, • develop individual site solutions for your company, Business development • provide the opportunity to conduct your own research • We support technology projects, research and in our commercial real estate database. ­development activities, • evaluate and optimise corporate innovation potential, Schleswig-Holstein has interesting commercial areas with • research and advise on patents and industrial property excellent infrastructure connections, such as at growth rights axes like the Fehmarn Belt corridor or along the A7 route. • assist with entering foreign markets, And for high-yield tourism projects, whether in hotels or • organise joint stands at trade fairs and establish resorts, there are building sites in booming tourist regions ­contacts, with unique waterfront locations. • develop and manage clusters for key sectors, and • support start-ups from universities and research Financing and subsidies ­institutes. There may potentially be subsidies available for ­companies investing in Schleswig-Holstein. Funds can be granted for relocating operations to Schleswig-­Holstein, creating a subsidiary, and establishing or taking over ­another company in Schleswig-Holstein.

30 WTSH networks Involvement of stakeholders and ­partners

Technology and ­business centres

Chambers of Commerce Regional economic and Industry (IHKs) development organisations

Trade supervisory Chambers of Crafts ­authoritiesr

Business associations Employment agencies

Bürgschaftsbank SME investment Schleswig-Holstein companies

Cities Investitionsbank districts Schleswig-Holstein municipalities Ministries

31 WT.SH Business Development and Technology Transfer Corporation of Schleswig-Holstein

Lorentzendamm 24 24103 Kiel, Germany

P +49 431 66 66 6-0 F +49 431 66 66 6-794 [email protected] www.wtsh.de

Photos: In the interest of improved legibility, a Drägerwerk (Page 10 top) gender-specific differentiation is not Fotofrizz B. Kuhn (Page 11 button) used throughout. Any gender-specific Getty Images (Page 3 button, 8, 9 top, terminology refers to both genders. 11 top, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 20, 23, 26 top, 27 top, 28 top, button left) All information provided is based on grafikfoto (Page 9 button, 27 button left) the latest market information at the Ostsee-Holstein-Tourismus e.V. (Page time of publication. 26 button left) The WTSH assumes no liability for Picture-Alliance (Page 10 button) the information provided being pur.pur (Cover, Page 4, 26 button right, ­up-to-date, correct or complete. 27 button right, 28 button right) Timo Wilke (Page 3 top, 30/31)

The Business Development and Technology Transfer Corporation of Schleswig-Holstein (WT.SH) is a company owned by the state of Schleswig-Holstein, the Chambers of Commerce and Industry, ­ Chambers of Crafts and the institutions of higher education

Date: May 2017 · Conception, Design, Text: www.pur-pur.de Text: Design, May 2017 · Conception, Date: in the state.