At the current 'turning point', Europe is seeking to reposition itself in terms of defence technology. The DefenseTech Inkubator.NRW in Düsseldorf has recently begun bringing start-ups, industrial companies and researchers together to develop new technologies and applications. These technologies are intended to prevent conflicts and promote protection and resilience.

GEA is one of the world's largest system suppliers for the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries. Originally founded in Frankfurt at the end of the 19th century, the group is now headquartered in Düsseldorf-Derendorf and is one of Germany's 40 largest listed companies.

They are among the top talents in the German economy and are the first women to hold senior management positions in the automotive and chemical industries in Düsseldorf. We spoke to Claudia Malkus (Mercedes-Benz) and Helya Masoud (BASF) about leadership, responsibility, transformation, role models, and courage.

Düsseldorf is a fashion city – and at the same time faces the question of how fashion can function responsibly, economically and aesthetically in the future. For the past three years, Sustain! has provided creative ideas in the form of a two-day event consisting of a conference and a pop-up market showcasing fair fashion and design from Düsseldorf. This initiative is also supported by sustainable retail, repair services and vintage concepts.

Startups are an important component of Düsseldorf's industrial network: they bring a breath of fresh air to traditional structures and can also act as ‘digital helpers’ along the value chain of established industrial companies. The following three startups from very different fields are also part of this exciting ecosystem: Rex Tierarztpraxis, RIIICO and Bion Analytics. Happy reading!