Advancing the green economy in North Rhine-Westphalia through collaboration

The powerhouse of ecological value creation

The Green Economy Network is the powerhouse for ecological value creation in North Rhine-Westphalia. Our state is undergoing an industrial transformation toward climate neutrality and a circular economy, with green solutions serving as a driver of innovation and economic growth. To this end, we pool cross-sector expertise and translate dialogue between industry, policymakers, and academia into tangible value. By connecting stakeholders, we make knowledge actionable. We act as a partner and intermediary, bringing together companies, start-ups, research institutions and public stakeholders. We drive development forward, showcase success stories, and support market entry. In this way, we make a sustainable contribution to a thriving green economy in North Rhine-Westphalia.

Collaboration in North Rhine-Westphalia’s green economy

The Green Economy Network is a platform that promotes innovation and collaboration. We identify relevant developments, connect stakeholders, and help bring innovations into practice and market. 
From new materials and smart processes to emerging technologies, the network helps make innovative solutions from North Rhine-Westphalia visible and accessible.
Through targeted initiatives, we foster exchange, collaboration, and new opportunities for value creation.
Learn more about our activities in the sections below.

Unlocking international potential together

North Rhine-Westphalia offers ideal conditions for international partnerships in the green economy sector. Through the Green Economy Network, international companies gain access to innovations and business partners in the region.
We build connections with companies, research institutions, and public bodies, and help initiate collaborations. Our focus is on tailored matchmaking, building partnerships, and identifying specific business and collaboration opportunities.
Together with strong partner organizations, we facilitate international cooperation and raise the visibility of innovative expertise from North Rhine-Westphalia on global markets. Delegation trips, international events, and trade fairs provide concrete opportunities to launch and expand cross-border collaborations.

Contact us

Our network managers connect you with the right companies, research institutions, and other relevant partners, and support you in building successful collaborations. Working alongside our experts in innovation, international partnerships, and communications, they are here to support you. Our team offers personalized support and connects you with the right contacts for your projects and areas of interest.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Our network managers

North Rhine-Westphalia at IFAT 2026

Strong showing by the green economy in Munich

From May 4 to 7, 2026, North Rhine-Westphalia was represented at IFAT in Munich - the world's leading trade fair for water, sewage, waste and raw materials management. With around 3,400 exhibitors from over 60 countries, the trade fair reaffirmed its role as a key international hub for innovations in environmental protection and resource management.

Learn more about North Rhine-Westphalia's presence at IFAT here.
 

Events

10th SUMMIT Green Economy.NRW on 18 November 2026

What?

We are delighted to invite you to the anniversary edition of the SUMMIT Green Economy.NRW 2026: The 10th SUMMIT Green Economy.NRW will take place on 18 November 2026 at the Ministry of the Environment in Düsseldorf. To celebrate this special milestone, we warmly invite all stakeholders in the green economy to join us. You can look forward to a diverse programme featuring insights from industry and policymakers, accompanied by an exhibition of innovative solutions.
The highlight of this annual networking event is the official award ceremony of the Green Economy Award (Umweltwirtschaftspreis.NRW) 2026, jointly awarded by the Ministry of the Environment of North Rhine-Westphalia and NRW.BANK. On the day, the ten nominees will find out who has secured first, second, and third place.

The SUMMIT is organized by the Green Economy Network North Rhine-Westphalia on behalf of the Ministry of the Environment, Nature Conservation and Transport of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia. It brings together key representatives of the sector – from companies actively driving the green economy forward, to policymakers, intermediaries, and researchers.
Save the date and register your coming – we look forward to welcoming you. Further information will follow shortly.

When?

November 18, 2026

Where?

Ministry of the Environment, Nature Conservation and Transport of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia
Düsseldorf, North Rhine-Westphalia

 

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