Structural change
Easing the structural transition: ThyssenKrupp makes its contribution to the process of change in the Ruhr region.
Initiativkreis Ruhr is an initiative set up in 1989 by 55 of the Ruhr's leading industrial companies, including ThyssenKrupp, to actively promote the development of the region. Initiativkreis Ruhr carries out numerous projects aimed at injecting impetus into the structural transformation of the Ruhr region. These include the Ruhr Piano Festival, a series of events entitled "Nobel Prize Winners in the Ruhr Region", "Youth Dialogue", "PROGRESS ideas pool", "Leading-edge medicine in the Ruhr region", the "Uni-Cup" for rowing and the development of the Zollverein world heritage site. The key project for 2004/2005 is "Materials research and development - engine for innovation in the Ruhr region".
"Shaping the future of the Ruhr - bringing together the region's strengths" - this is the motto on the website of "pro Ruhrgebiet", another movement to promote the region. With a membership comprising over 350 individuals and companies, including ThyssenKrupp, this initiative likewise works to promote structural change and has been playing a major role in the radical process of change taking place in the region for 22 years. It has many aims: to improve the image of the region as an industrial location, to support small and medium-size enterprises, to promote cultural and sporting activities, to promote the dialogue between companies, academic institutions and research centers, and to improve career and business start-up opportunities for young people. In addition, "pro Ruhrgebiet" aims to encourage people living in the area to contribute to their community and identify with the Ruhr region. The pro Ruhrgebiet Club provides an important platform for the exchange of opinion and experience among participating companies.