HELMIZ innovation center

Challenge: Sustainable structural change in the former lignite mining area 

The phase-out of lignite-fired power generation requires a sustainable economic transformation of the Helmstedt mining district. Companies must safeguard existing jobs, tap into new sources of value creation, and simultaneously meet the demands of decarbonization, digitalization, and resource efficiency. SMEs, in particular, often lack their own research resources, suitable collaboration partners, and access to funding opportunities.

Solution: An innovation center for the Helmstedt economic region

HELMIZ is the regional hub for knowledge and technology transfer. The innovation center identifies the needs of local companies, connects them with the appropriate expertise from Fraunhofer institutes and universities, and supports projects from the initial idea through to project development and funding acquisition. This includes needs assessments, technology and funding advice, feasibility studies, as well as pilot and collaborative research projects. For example, through the South-East Lower Saxony Hydrogen Network (“Wasserstoff-Netzwerk SüdOstNiedersachsen”), companies and local decision-makers gain access to research infrastructures, regional partners, and new opportunities for collaboration.  

Added value for the region

HELMIZ turns networking into concrete innovation: By 2025, approximately 93 companies had been identified, over 54 contacted, and around 15 SMEs had received intensive support. This led to project initiatives in CO₂ capture, hydrogen-compatible pump technologies, AI-supported production, industrial waste heat utilization, and transformation. Companies gain access to research expertise, funding opportunities, and new collaboration partners, while the region strengthens its innovative capacity and future prospects.