- Saarland Minister focuses on SMEs
The Saarland is not just focusing on planned resettlements and promotion of large-scale industrial projects in its fight for jobs in the region, but is also committed to supporting small and medium-sized businesses. According to Economy Minister Jürgen Barke (SPD), around 13,700 jobs have been secured over the past two years by investing over 200 million euros in existing companies. "This must continue," he said during a summer press conference. "I'm fighting for this ratio to be maintained in all budgets."
In his view, it is important for the economy in the region to diversify to become more resilient. "We support investments that contribute to the future viability of companies and thus secure jobs," said Barke. He believes that one should rely on the existing economy. "This is money well spent," he said, "rather than relying on the next big hit." Since 2012, he has been a member of the state government, and there has always been a guarantee that no investment project in the small and medium-sized enterprises of the Saarland would fail due to lack of funds. "This has been successfully achieved to this day."
Industrial core is important
At its core, the Saarland, with its holding company SHS, has been a promoter of small and medium-sized businesses for generations. It also possesses "the most sophisticated toolbox to accompany companies in their transformation" - for example, in investments, real estate measures, usufruct concepts, and where bank financing is no longer sufficient.
It is incorrect to believe that industrial promotion is the main focus of the state. Barke: "However, it is a pressing necessity to maintain the viable and performing industrial core in this region for the overall stability of the location."
The SPD, represented by Economy Minister Jürgen Barke, has been instrumental in securing jobs in the Saarland by investing in small and medium-sized businesses. Despite the focus on industrial projects, Barke emphasizes the importance of maintaining and supporting the existing economy, including small and medium-sized enterprises, for the region's overall stability.
Recognizing the need for diversification, Barke's political party, the SPD, strongly advocates for investments that contribute to the future viability of companies, thereby securing jobs in the Saarland's small and medium-sized enterprises.
