Baden-Württemberg is providing a total of 3.2 million euros in 2027 and 2028 for the funding program “Integration Through Training—Opportunities for Immigrants.” Funding will support 36 positions at professional chambers, educational institutions, and county administrations. The Chamber of Industry and Commerce and the Chamber of Skilled Trades in Reutlingen will each receive nearly 175,000 euros.
Through the so-called “Kümmerer Program,” the Ministry of Economic Affairs has been supporting regional contact persons throughout the state since 2016. Their task is to place young people in internships, entry-level training programs, and apprenticeships. According to a statement from the Ministry of Economic Affairs, they are intended to help immigrants choose a career, as well as assist them in preparing application materials and preparing for job interviews. At the same time, they serve as points of contact for businesses and advise them, for example, on support services available during the apprenticeship.
Apprenticeship Opportunities for Immigrants
Since 2016, the program has placed approximately 5,100 immigrants in apprenticeships. Small businesses and industries that struggle to find young talent have benefited in particular. Thirty-nine percent began their apprenticeships in the skilled trades. Participants in the “Kümmerer” program also often pursue apprenticeship trades that are not in demand—or no longer as popular—among German youth, such as in the restaurant industry or as warehouse clerks. According to the ministry, most participants approach the program providers on their own initiative or are referred through schools and volunteer networks. Eligibility requirements and contact information can be found on the website of the Chambers in Reutlingen:
https://www.hwk-reutlingen.de/ausbildung/migration-und-ausbildung/kuemmerer-programm/
https://www.reutlingen.ihk.de/beratung/foerderprogramm-integration/
Source and further information:
https://www.baden-wuerttemberg.de/de/service/presse/pressemitteilung/pid/32-millionen-euro-fuer-ausbildung-und-integration?&pk_medium=newsletter&pk_campaign=260930_newsletter_daily&pk_source=newsletter_daily
https://wm.baden-wuerttemberg.de/fileadmin/redaktion/m-wm/intern/Dateien_Downloads/Foerderprogramme/FaFo_Bericht_K%C3%BCmmerer_September2025.pdf
https://tuenews.de/der-deutsche-arbeitsmarkt-braucht-zuwanderung/
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