Seminar: Easy start-up

The establishment of new businesses contributes significantly to the economic dynamism of a region. In addition to creating new jobs, start-up companies are often expected to respond flexibly to new markets and demonstrate greater potential for innovation. An increase in the number of new businesses is thus not just an important aim at the European and national level; regions and municipalities also offer considerable support for such start-ups, sometimes by establishing "business incubators" which offer advisory and contact services, as well as office space and other types of infrastructure.

However, reports from such start-up advisers suggest that, despite all the success stories and the wide range of concepts, funding programmes and projects, the potential for the successful establishment of new businesses is far from being exhausted in many regions.

Research shows that there are clear regional differences with regard to the number of new businesses established and their success rate. It also suggests that the reasons for this are to be found not just in individual circumstances, but also in the regional environment. The fact that some regions are economically stronger than others is not sufficient explanation either. Cultural and social differences may play a role, but other causes can also be identified, in particular differences with regard to administrative competence and the requirements placed on those who set up new businesses as well as those who advise them.

Comparing several European countries, the international seminar examined the reasons why new businesses succeed and why difficulties remain. The dialogue between several regions allowed them to find new approaches to establishing successful new businesses.

On the last day, the seminar also investigated the possibilities for cooperation on an INTERREG IVC project. The aim of this project will be to increase the number of start-ups and to ensure the efficient use of funding through international cooperation between municipal and regional business incubators. Particular attention will be paid to the possibilities for greater interaction between individual programmes for sectors and target groups which are often treated separately (e.g. students, job-seekers, women, immigrants), with the aim of achieving greater ‘entrepreneurial diversity’.