Strong partners in the hydrogen network

The hydrogen world is growing together in Nuremberg. The networking of Bavarian and international players is being driven forward by the cooperation between the HYDROGEN DIALOGUE and Bavaria International. A strong hydrogen alliance dedicated to promoting Bavaria as an international hydrogen hub.

Written by Reinhold Gebhart

A conference on hydrogen technology entitled “HYDROGEN DIALOGUE SUMMIT & EXPO”. On stage is a woman with a microphone, in the background is a screen with the inscription “Welcome Netherlands”.

One in three of the approximately 1,500 visitors at the fifth edition of the HYDROGEN DIALOGUE Summit & Expo came from abroad. They all came to the high-profile summit meeting of the national and international hydrogen industry at the Exhibition Center Nuremberg: Scientists, politicians, business bosses and young start-ups, who were able to present themselves in pitches to international investors.

"Our platform showed in an impressive way that ideas, initial projects and the will to ramp up the hydrogen economy are there," summarized Jasmin Rutka, Event Director at NürnbergMesse. Equally impressive: no fewer than 17 international delegations from 33 countries made their way to Nuremberg this time - although their journey was not quite over yet.

Bus tours in the hydrogen country of Bavaria

From the Nuremberg exhibition grounds, the participants set off on a total of six bus tours to hydrogen companies and research institutions in various regions of Bavaria. The aim was to get to know and understand technologies and projects on site and to make direct contact with entrepreneurs.

The trips were organized by Bayern International, which has been supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from Bavaria in their export business for over 25 years in cooperation with the Bavarian Ministry of Economic Affairs. This also includes the delegation visits as part of the HYDROGEN DIALOGUE. "We bring international delegations to Bavarian companies," explains Lena Beutlrock, Manager for Delegation Trips and Delegation Visits at Bayern International. "The fact that participants from a wide variety of countries come directly to them enables our SMEs to make numerous new business contacts and at the same time reduces additional effort and costs for trips abroad."

A group of people stand in an industrial or laboratory environment. Some are wearing badges, and industrial equipment and machinery can be seen in the background. A sign reading “Hydrogenious” is visible. — Visiting the hydrogen state of Bavaria: HYDROGEN DIALOGUE participants were able to gain exciting insights into Bavarian hydrogen companies.

Growing international interest

Another success story is the growing international interest in the HYDROGEN DIALOGUE and its supporting program. This is why the cooperation, which was launched in 2023, expanded its support for international delegations in its second year. In 2024, there were six bus tours instead of the first four, short pitches and networking with exhibitors, visitors and other delegations on the first evening of the trade fair, as well as a reception at Nuremberg Castle including meetings with high-ranking representatives from business, science and politics. Each time with the aim of networking Bavarian and international players with each other

An international focus and contact with foreign business partners is essential for the Bavarian economy. Bayern International offers Bavarian companies numerous opportunities, such as participation in delegation trips or the Bavarian Trade Fair Participation Program. The "Bavaria Fit For Partnership" program and the "Key to Bavaria" company database, which is marketed internationally, also contribute to the visibility of Bavarian companies abroad. At the same time, Bavaria is promoting the establishment of international companies in Bavaria with the "Invest in Bavaria" brand.

A conference with an audience looking at a stage with several panelists. A large screen with the words “HYDROGEN DIALOGUE SUMMIT & EXPO” can be seen in the background. — International interest: 17 international delegations from 33 countries took part in the HYDROGEN DIALOGUE

Win-win situation for cooperation partners

The cooperation between HYDROGEN DIALOGUE and Bayern International is already having a positive impact on both partners. The networking of Bavarian and international players on Bavarian soil has been intensified through clever measures. At the same time, the "HYDROGEN DIALOGUE" brand is becoming increasingly important for the ramp-up of the hydrogen economy around the world. The HYDROGEN DIALOGUE edition in Brazil has already established itself and this year the event will also be held in Chile for the first time.

Author

Reinhold Gebhart

Online-Redaktion // Editor for Vincentz Network