"Right to repair": a strong signal and valuable message for the trades.

The law promoting the repair of goods passed the Bundesrat (Federal Council) on July 10, 2026. The law transposes the EU directive into national law and is scheduled to come into force on July 31 for most purchase contracts concluded from the end of July 2026 onwards. Kurt Krautscheid, President of the Koblenz Chamber of Skilled Crafts, comments on the new "right to repair".

Smart meter rollout should be faster

The German government wants to accelerate the smart meter rollout in Germany and implement it two years earlier than previously planned. The ZVEH (Central Association of German Electrical and Information Technology Trades) welcomes this, but warns against shifting obligations from metering point operators to customers.

Reforestation of forests to preserve drinking water

Only a healthy, green forest can ensure a balanced water supply. However, persistently high temperatures and drought are currently putting forests under pressure. Since water is an essential source of life, Krombacher supports the preservation of stable forests with a large-scale reforestation program.

Up to €35.000 can be accessed through the Starter Scholarship program for founders. (Photo: © inlooka/123RF.com)

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Starter Scholarship Saar: Apply now!

The Chambers of Crafts in Germany - Chamber of Crafts and Trades of Saarland

April 2026

With the Saarland Starter Scholarship, Minister of Economic Affairs Jürgen Barke supports promising companies in their start-up phase. The sixth round of the program is now beginning.

Founders can now apply for funding of up to €36.000. The program is aimed at young, Saarland-based startups with innovative ideas. These can be technological or creative approaches. Sustainable concepts are also eligible for funding. It is important that the company was founded no more than 18 months ago. Selection will be made through a multi-stage process.

Minister for Economic Affairs and Innovation Jürgen Barke is calling on Saarland startups to apply for the scholarship: "Those who have the courage to start a business will find the best possible conditions in Saarland. With the Starter Scholarship, we are giving founders the boost they need in the crucial initial phase. In this way, we want to quickly transform innovative ideas into marketable business models. This creates added value and new jobs in the state."

In addition to financial support, the startups gain access to a strong network. This includes mentors, experts, and partners from the region. The program is coordinated by the Saarland Startup Initiative. Since its launch in 2022, 22 startups and 31 founders have received funding. The total funding volume is approximately €558.000.

Background: Starter Scholarship Saar Deadline The application period runs until May 15, 2026. Background information is available online here.

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Further news from the district of the Saarland Chamber of Crafts

Text: Chamber of Crafts and Trades of Saarland / handwerksblatt.de

30.000 euros for conversion to living space

Since July 1st, property owners can take advantage of a new KfW funding program: 300 million euros are available to convert vacant offices and commercial properties into apartments. Subsidies of up to 30.000 euros are available per residential unit.

July 2026

The Chambers of Crafts in Germany - Chamber of Crafts and Trades of Saarland

Registration for journeyman and final examinations

Applications for admission to the journeyman and final examinations in winter 2026/2027 must be received by the Chamber of Skilled Crafts and Trades (HWK) no later than August 28th.

July 2026

The Chambers of Crafts in Germany - Chamber of Crafts and Trades of Saarland

Master craftsman preparation: Precision mechanic

Precision, responsibility and future – the master craftsman preparation in the precision mechanic trade is the foundation for a career.

May 2026

The Chambers of Crafts in Germany - Chamber of Crafts and Trades of Saarland

Master craftsman preparation: Metalworker Part II

In this advanced training course, participants acquire comprehensive theoretical knowledge required for the successful master craftsman examination in the metal construction trade.

June 2026