KölnBusiness – helping you grow your business in Cologne

Whether setting up for the first time or expanding, KölnBusiness can support you every step of the way.

Our International Desk functions as a one stop agency for international companies wishing to set up a business in North Rhine-Westphalia’s largest city. We support you in all matters related to your business affairs in Cologne; our targeted services are offered free of charge. Our multilingual team is happy to guide you through the jungle of red tape and connect you with the relevant players for your business in Cologne.

Any questions?

Get in touch!

Funding programme Soft Landing

Funding Provisions for International Settlement

KölnBusiness has launched the Cologne Soft Landing Programme to support the international settlement of startups and companies. The programme accepts applications from international startups and companies. Commercial rental costs, consultation fees, material costs and staffing costs can be funded. A maximum of 3,000 euros is awarded to each successful startup or company. 

The application deadline is the 31st of December 2023.

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Scaleup Program Cologne

To support young Cologne-based companies in their international expansion, KölnBusiness has developed the Scaleup Program Cologne in cooperation with nlmtd. In the Scaleup Program Cologne, young entrepreneurs learn together with other founders how they can best expand their company internationally.
 

The application deadline is the 5th of September 2023.

 

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Our services

  • Free advice and support before, during and after your relocation to Cologne
  • Guidance and assistance with administrative and legal issues (e.g. work, resident and building permits)
  • Information about renting, leasing, buying or selling commercial properties in Cologne as well as connecting you to real estate agencies and realtors
  • Contact to all relevant departments of the city administration 
  • Assistance with staff recruitment
  • Overview of relevant actors for the relocation process
  • Integration into local business networks
  • Tips and advice on expat life in Cologne
Our services - Overview - KölnBusiness

Setting up a business

Short guide on different legal forms of companies in Germany and how to register a business.

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Our services - Overview - KölnBusiness

Information on visas & permits

Find out how to apply for a short- or long-term Visa as an entrepreneur or freelancer.

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Our services - Overview - KölnBusiness

Finding the right location

We provide information about real estate offers, office rental options, and coworking spaces.

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Our international team

Our team is here to help you to make an informed decision about your next move. We can provide you with local market insights, information about available funding programmes to support your entry and practical know-how so that you can hit the ground running.

Meet the team

Considering Cologne?

When choosing a location for your business expansion or relocation abroad, there are many aspects to consider. KölnBusiness is here to help you to make an informed decision about your next move. We can provide you with local market insights, information about available funding programmes, relevant business contacts to support your entry and practical know-how so that you can hit the ground running.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch with any questions you might have before you take the plunge and set up a business.