Frankfurt Economic Development GmbH (Wirtschaftsförderung Frankfurt) is the city's economic development agency, responsible for attracting investment, supporting businesses, and promoting Frankfurt as a location for innovation and technology. The agency plays a strategic role in Frankfurt's smart city ecosystem by connecting the city's economic development objectives with its digital transformation and sustainability goals.
The agency manages programmes that support startup formation and growth in technology sectors relevant to smart city development, including fintech, proptech, mobility technology, and clean technology. It operates innovation spaces and networking events that bring together established companies, startups, research institutions, and municipal departments to identify collaboration opportunities around urban innovation challenges.
Frankfurt Economic Development GmbH was a key partner in the URBACT 'In Focus' project, which applied the smart specialisation methodology to the city's economic development strategy. Through this project, the agency developed a structured approach to identifying Frankfurt's competitive strengths in innovation and channelling support towards sectors with the greatest potential for growth and urban impact.
The agency also promotes Frankfurt internationally as a smart city and digital economy destination, participating in trade fairs, investor conferences, and city marketing initiatives that highlight the city's unique combination of financial sector strength, digital infrastructure excellence, and quality of life. By positioning Frankfurt as a place where technology companies can access world-class connectivity, a deep talent pool, and a supportive municipal environment, the agency contributes to the continued growth of the city's smart city and innovation ecosystem.
Frankfurt Economic Development GmbH serves as an important bridge between the city's economic and smart city agendas.