Projects to support digital enterprise in Berlin (Slides explaining the answers to question 5)

1) Development of skilled labour

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2) ICT cluster management initiative

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3) Improving basic conditions for start-ups

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1) Education and the development of skilled labour- Dual training combines theory and practice

The project initiated by IHK Berlin for a ‘School/Business Partnership’ has already generated more than three hundred collaborative ventures between businesses and schools, aimed at preparing students for success in the jobs market

- The top choice in Germany: studying computer science in BerlinWith more than forty different computer science courses on offer at its universities and colleges, Berlin provides by far the widest range of options in Germany for IT students.

- Internationalisation strategy Berlin’s institutes of higher education deliberately set out to snap up the best foreign talent. One in three students already comes from abroad.

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2) ICT cluster management initiative

Alliance to promote the digital economy in Berlin

The IHK is pursuing this policy in conjunction with other trade associations:

1. Adapting the structures of ICT clusters to suit Berlin’s economy

2. Placing greater emphasis on the autonomy of Berlin’s digital economy

3. Ensuring that cluster management recognises business needs and factors them in more substantially

4. Making cluster-relevant goals, actions and processes more transparent and encouraging industry to become involved

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2) ICT cluster management initiative (2)

Alliance activities in which the IHK is involved:

1. Supporting cluster development through IHK activities

2. Communicating with and involving IHK members

3. Making information available to businesses operating in the digital economy and offering them practical assistance

4. Supporting other joint initiatives (including those concerned with the securing of skilled manpower and technology transfer).

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3) Improving basic conditions for start-ups

McKinsey study: ‘Berlin builds businesses’ Five initiatives were identified to help develop Berlin’s role as a start-up hub

1. A new business boom for Berlin: better incentive systems and optimum conditions for start-ups

2. A more welcoming environment: a one-stop agency for foreign entrepreneurs to help them cut the fastest and most direct path through the bureaucratic jungle

3. Infrastructure: the creation of a campus for digital technology start-ups, where established companies could also locate and exchange ideas

4. Start-up capital: setting up a fund specifically to support young companies

5. Network taskforce: bringing together start-ups and established companies