IHK Ulm

The Danube Region: Our Business Partners of the Future

The Danube connects Central and Southeast Europe and has long been an important trade route linking the region. As the first major city on the Danube in Germany, Ulm has traditionally maintained close economic ties with Southeast Europe.
Today, the region is gaining importance as a business partner for German companies. Economic growth, rising incomes, qualified professionals and competitive labour costs are creating opportunities for trade, investment, sourcing and production. At the same time, geographical proximity, infrastructure development and increasing regional integration make Southeast Europe particularly attractive for nearshoring and more resilient supply chains.

The Competence Centre for Southeast Europe

The Competence Centre for Southeast Europe (KSOE) of the Ulm Chamber of Commerce and Industry supports companies and institutions from Baden-Württemberg in developing business relations with Southeast Europe. As a bridge between the two regions, it helps companies explore markets, establish contacts and develop long-term business relationships.
The KSOE is responsible for Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Kosovo, Montenegro, Moldova, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ukraine and Hungary.

Our Objectives

The KSOE aims to strengthen economic cooperation between Baden-Württemberg and Southeast Europe and to facilitate access to the region's markets. This includes opening up new sales and procurement opportunities, promoting cooperation and supporting investment.

Our Services

The KSOE provides practical support for companies interested in Southeast European markets:
  • Individual consulting: on market entry, employee assignments, financing, customs and foreign trade, as well as legal and tax matters
  • Information and market knowledge: on political and economic developments and relevant events
  • Contacts and local expertise: access to market experts, authorities, interpreters and other relevant partners
  • Business matchmaking: support in finding suitable business partners and multipliers, as well as in organizing matchmaking events and business missions
  • Delegation support: reception and assistance for foreign business delegations visiting Baden-Württemberg

Networking and Exchange

Personal contacts are essential for successful international business. Through business missions, matchmaking events, trade fairs and other activities, the KSOE connects companies and institutions and creates opportunities for new business and cooperation.
The KSOE is also part of the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN), an international network supporting companies in internationalization and in finding suitable cooperation partners.
The Danube region and Southeast Europe offer growing opportunities for Baden-Württemberg's economy. The KSOE helps companies turn these opportunities into lasting business connections.