ASIA AND USA

Düsseldorf is the most important location for foreign direct investment and start-ups in North Rhine-Westphalia. In response to this high degree of internationality, Düsseldorf's Office of Economic Development has a multilingual team of experts from the International Business Service (IBS). VIVID spoke with IBS Director Annette Klerks about Asian and US companies in particular.

Düsseldorf is one of Europe's most important hubs for business with Asia. Historically, close ties with Japan began in the 1950s, followed later by China, Korea and, most recently, India as a dynamic growth market. Today, the city is a hub for international companies, an anchor point for skilled workers and a meeting place for cultures – from Japan Day to Indian cricket.

Even in politically turbulent times, North Rhine-Westphalia maintains strong ties with the USA. Diplomatic relations and economic cooperation between the two countries are at the heart of this relationship.

Located immediately behind the main railway station, Oberbilk is a district that embodies the transition from industry to services and creative industries more than any other area in Düsseldorf. Where iron and steelworks once dominated, residential areas, small businesses, and a vibrant mix of industries now prevail. The historic centre of the district is Oberbilker Markt. The Kölner Straße shopping district is lined with Turkish supermarkets, Persian bakeries and African hairdressing salons. Multicultural diversity is part of everyday life here, as reflected in the simple yet authentic culinary scene. Around the Haus der Wirtschaft, street names commemorate Düsseldorf's twin towns, and street art in underpasses and on façades showcases the district's creativity. Oberbilk also has a green oasis in the form of the 70-hectare Südpark, which invites visitors to take a stroll and relax. Despite all the changes, the district has retained its rough charm. Oberbilk is dense and colourful, and continues to be a neighbourhood on the rise.

The state capital of Düsseldorf is twinned with eight other cities around the world. These partnerships are brought to life through various projects that encourage cultural and personal exchanges between its citizens.

Taking steps towards internationalisation can present particular challenges for owner-managed and family-run companies. However, this can also present great opportunities. Here are two company stories.

As part of the ‘New Work’ movement, coworking spaces have set out to revolutionise work. This article takes a look at an industry that has become professionalised, shedding light on how we want to work today.

Startup Week Düsseldorf plays a key part in the growing startup ecosystem in Düsseldorf. A wonderful anniversary was celebrated from 8 to 12 September 2025: for the 10th time, visionary founders, innovative minds and up-and-coming companies came together to shape the future. The official highlight was the Future Tech Fest, Germany's leading B2B start-up trade fair and conference. More than 5,000 people – ranging from industry leaders to lesser-known figures in the startup scene – gathered to share knowledge and conduct business. Among them were numerous startups from abroad, highlighting Düsseldorf's appeal as an international location. These three “fresh ideas” exemplify the diversity of the local start-up ecosystem: Make way for Aitonomi, promptmeplease.ai and DNTOX!

A red carpet and golden cord lead the way to the small, exclusive boutique in the Kö-Center, where lavishly decorated, handmade women's shoes are displayed on glass shelves like precious objects. Below these are pumps with breathtakingly high heels, crafted from the finest leather, velvet and silk; ankle boots featuring three-dimensional embroidery; and black-and-white sneakers from the ‘Panda’ collection. There are also true works of art, adorned with feathers, pearls, rhinestones and embroidery. Prices per pair range from 450 to 5,000 Euro. Dressed entirely in black with a gold-embroidered shawl, Linda Liu advises a handful of Chinese customers. The petite businesswoman moves around on platform soles and very high heels that make her appear at least 15 centimetres taller. Our interview is conducted in German and Chinese with the help of an interpreter.

Nicole Karuvallil has lived in Düsseldorf for almost two decades. After obtaining a degree in Economics from Wuppertal University and a Master's degree in International Management from London University, she embarked on a career in marketing and advertising. Three years ago, while working at digihub Düsseldorf, Nicole discovered her passion for startups, and she has remained committed to this field ever since. She took on the role of managing director at TechHub.K67 on 1 June 2025. She also heads the international recruitment agency Inxpert Talent Bridge.

In a world where major crises and challenges have global origins, it is also necessary to adopt an international perspective in order to develop the right solutions. Cross-border research at universities plays a key role in this. What projects are Düsseldorf's universities focusing on?