Respect for founders in Corona times

At the Masters Day NRW, Economics Minister Andreas Pinkwart presented certificates for the master start-up bonus to 20 founders from the North Rhine-Westphalian skilled trades.

This article is part of the special feature GründerNavi – for founders and young companies

At the 9th NRW Master Craftsmen's Day in Solingen, 20 young entrepreneurs from the North Rhine-Westphalian skilled trades received their certificates for the Master Craftsman Start-up Bonus . "Especially in times like these, it is important to support young entrepreneurs in the skilled trades, because the skilled trades offer excellent future prospects despite the pandemic ," emphasized Matthias Heidmeier , Managing Director of the West German Association of Chambers of Skilled Crafts (WHKT).

At the beginning of the event, State Minister of Economic Affairs Andreas Pinkwart (FDP), WHKT President Hans Hund, Berthold Schröder, WHKT Vice President, and Andreas Ehlert, President of Handwerk.NRW , exchanged views on the current challenges of the Corona pandemic.

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"The skilled trades stabilize the entire economy ," Pinkwart explained. He was pleased with the cooperation between politics, business, and administration, which enabled the rapid and unbureaucratic provision of emergency coronavirus aid: "I am proud that democracy has shown here how quickly it can act when it matters."

Hans Hund addressed the founders present: " Especially in these times, those in the skilled trades who, despite all circumstances, venture into self-employment and start or take over a business deserve great respect ."

"Show what your work is worth!"

In a panel discussion, three young recipients of the Master Craftsman Start-Up Grant – hairdresser Filiz Schulz, carpenter Lars Zimmermann, and confectioner Wieland Funk – shared their future plans. Following this, keynote speaker Sven Schöpker, master carpenter and managing director of Raumfabrik, offered advice to the young entrepreneurs. With his "Mission Awesome Craftsmanship!" he aims to strengthen the reputation of skilled trades in society. His central message: "Show what your work is worth!"