Four questions for the association chairwoman Katrin Albsteiger (Mayor of the city) Neu-Ulm) and Martin Ansbacher (Mayor of the City of Ulm)
Question 1: How would you describe the economic interdependence of your municipalities?
Katrin Albsteiger:
Our cities are closely intertwined economically. Many of our citizens live and work in the other municipality, and numerous companies operate across multiple locations. Proximity and excellent transport links make this possible and foster a strong economic symbiosis.
Martin Ansbacher:
Exactly, we complement each other perfectly. While Ulm, for example, is excellently positioned in the fields of life sciences and information and communication technology, Neu-Ulm It contributes its strengths in the field of mechanical engineering or commercial vehicle construction. This leads to a mutual strengthening – both in the labor market and in terms of innovative capacity.
Question 2: What role does the Stadtentwicklungsverband Ulm/Neu-Ulm, which you both alternately chair, in this collaboration?
Martin Ansbacher:
The association provides us with a platform to jointly develop strategies and implement projects that have an impact beyond the city limits. It consolidates our interests and ensures that we can act more efficiently together – whether on issues of land policy or economic development.
Katrin Albsteiger:
Absolutely. The association has not only brought us closer together organizationally, but has also eased the previously existing competitive situation between the cities.
Question 3: How would you assess the overall economic strength of your region?
Katrin Albsteiger:
Our region is now among the strongest economically in Germany. This is due not only to the large employers, but also to the numerous medium-sized businesses and start-ups that find ideal conditions here.
Martin Ansbacher:
We have invested heavily in recent years – in education, digitalization, and commercial real estate. The combination of innovation, tradition, and strong networking provides a stable foundation for our economy and makes us a very attractive location.
Question 4: What are your common goals for economic development in the coming years?
Martin Ansbacher:
Our focus is on sustainable growth. We want to carefully develop new areas, while at the same time modernizing existing industrial parks and promoting the next generation of skilled workers.
Katrin Albsteiger:
Another major goal is to further establish our region as a hub for innovation. To achieve this, we need more cooperation with universities, better digital infrastructure, and targeted support for future-oriented industries – all of which we are driving forward together.