Innovation Hub with a Future-Oriented Perspective
Health as an Economic Driver
The healthcare industry has evolved—nationwide and especially within the district of the IHK Mittleres Ruhrgebiet (Chamber of Industry and Commerce for the Central Ruhr Region)—into a forward-looking key sector. Positioned at the crossroads of demographic change and digitalization, as well as between science and technology, it has become a major engine of growth. With the highest concentration of medical care and treatment centers in Germany, the region provides ideal conditions for a well-connected healthcare ecosystem.
Economic Significance at Federal and State Level
The healthcare sector is a cornerstone of the German economy. In 2023, it generated approximately €443 billion in gross value added, contributing around 11.5% to the country’s GDP—with growth expected to continue. Industrial and digital healthcare solutions are the primary drivers. At the same time, a growing shortage of skilled professionals—especially in nursing—poses a serious challenge.
North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) is one of Germany’s leading healthcare regions. With €77.6 billion in gross value added and about 1.6 million employees, the sector is deeply rooted in the state’s economy. The region is distinguished by close cooperation between science and business, supported by seven university hospitals and numerous research institutions. Digital transformation and workforce development are at the core of many state-led initiatives.
International Success
Germany maintains its leading position in the European healthcare market. Medical technology companies export more than 65% of their products—mainly to EU countries. The pharmaceutical industry is likewise strongly internationalized. Over the past decade, healthcare exports have seen steady growth.
The federal government promotes targeted innovation—through initiatives such as the Agentur für Sprunginnovationen (SPRIND, the national agency for breakthrough innovations). Industry-specific networks further support companies through technology transfer, regulatory consulting, and international outreach.
Spotlight on the Mittleres Ruhrgebiet Region
In the district of the IHK Mittleres Ruhrgebiet, the healthcare sector has developed into a key economic pillar. With over 64,000 people employed, the share of the workforce in this sector has grown from 14% to nearly 21%—a clear indicator of its dynamic evolution. As one of six officially designated healthcare clusters by the state of NRW, the region plays a strategic role in the state’s future development.
The GesundheitsCampus Bochum as Innovation Driver
A flagship of this progress is the GesundheitsCampus NRW in Bochum. Since its establishment in 2009, it has served as a catalyst for the healthcare sector. The area includes key institutions such as the Landeszentrum Gesundheit (State Health Center), the Landeskrebsregister (State Cancer Registry), and the PRODI Center for Protein Diagnostics. The Hochschule für Gesundheit (University of Applied Sciences for Health)—now part of Hochschule Bochum—strengthens academic infrastructure through modern degree programs.
In the southern section of the campus, numerous companies have established themselves, including VISUS Health IT GmbH. Due to strong demand, the city of Bochum is already planning the development of an additional 90,000 square meters on the site of a former power plant.
Outstanding Healthcare Infrastructure
Nearly 100 hospitals are reachable within a 45-minute radius—making this one of the highest concentrations of medical care in Germany. The regional healthcare network includes around ten hospitals in Bochum, Herne, Witten, and Hattingen—several of which are affiliated with Ruhr University Bochum.
Networking as a Success Factor
A unique strength of the Mittleres Ruhrgebiet is the close interconnection between business, science, and medical care. Ruhr University Bochum, the Hochschule für Gesundheit, research institutes, and hospitals work closely with companies—from technology transfer and joint projects to training skilled professionals.
This collaborative culture is enhanced by strong regional networks:
- Agentur GesundheitsCampus Bochum acts as a coordinating body and driving force.
- MedEcon Ruhr connects over 170 partners from healthcare, research, and business
- Smart Health Hub Ruhr – Quhr specifically promotes the digital transformation of the healthcare sector.
- Agentur GesundheitsCampus Bochum acts as a coordinating body and driving force.
- MedEcon Ruhr connects over 170 partners from healthcare, research, and business
- Smart Health Hub Ruhr – Quhr specifically promotes the digital transformation of the healthcare sector.
These networks not only ensure efficiency—they also serve as models for other regions.
International Innovation Power
The region has developed into a robust ecosystem for medical technology and digital health. Examples include:
- phenox GmbH: Following acquisition by Wallaby Medical, the company operates in over 45 countries and develops neurovascular implants.
- Cyberdyne Care Robotics GmbH: A European subsidiary of CYBERDYNE Inc. (Japan), it introduces cutting-edge robotic rehabilitation through the HAL exoskeleton.
- VISUS Health IT GmbH: Specializes in imaging and diagnostic software and is now part of the global CompuGroup Medical.
- GBTEC Software AG: Drives healthcare digitalization through international projects and partnerships.
- phenox GmbH: Following acquisition by Wallaby Medical, the company operates in over 45 countries and develops neurovascular implants.
- Cyberdyne Care Robotics GmbH: A European subsidiary of CYBERDYNE Inc. (Japan), it introduces cutting-edge robotic rehabilitation through the HAL exoskeleton.
- VISUS Health IT GmbH: Specializes in imaging and diagnostic software and is now part of the global CompuGroup Medical.
- GBTEC Software AG: Drives healthcare digitalization through international projects and partnerships.
These companies demonstrate how regional actors can shape global standards and enhance international competitiveness.
Start-up Spirit and Support
The region offers excellent conditions for start-ups. Initiatives such as the Health+ incubator at Ruhr University Bochum and the meerkat Holding GmbH—a healthtech start-up ecosystem and investment firm—provide early-stage companies with access to capital, networks, mentorship, and practical expertise.
The educational ecosystem in and around Ruhr University Bochum is another strength. It includes universities, applied sciences institutions, research centers, and continuing education programs—ensuring a highly qualified talent pool, lifelong learning, and ongoing knowledge transfer. This academic density supports innovation and long-term business success.
Shaping the Future
The demand for healthcare services will continue to grow—especially for digital and personalized medicine. To avoid slowing innovation, regulatory burdens—such as those in medical device law—must be reduced.
This is particularly relevant in the start-up-friendly Mittleres Ruhrgebiet. The DIHK (Association of German Chambers of Commerce and Industry) likewise calls for more cross-sector cooperation to accelerate the integration of innovations into healthcare systems.
Additionally, the secondary healthcare market—focused on individual health services—offers significant growth opportunities. Increasing transparency and supporting innovative business models are key to realizing this potential.
The IHK as a Partner
The IHK Mittleres Ruhrgebiet offers ideal conditions for entering one of the most dynamic industries of our time. As aptly stated: “Bochum is the place to be for healthcare.”
We see ourselves as your information broker, trend scout, and advocate. Rooted in the region and connected nationwide, we guide companies through market entry, foster valuable connections, and identify key opportunities for growth.
A strong research landscape, dense healthcare infrastructure, and entrepreneurial spirit make the IHK Mittleres Ruhrgebiet a top location for innovative healthcare projects.
Talk to us—let’s shape the future of healthcare together!