i-work Intercultural Company Award

Since 2017, the i-work intercultural company award has been highlighting companies that show exemplary commitment to the integration of their international employees at work and in society. Companies of all sizes and industries are expressly invited to apply. Prizes will be awarded in the categories “Small and medium-sized enterprises“, “Large companies” and “Handcrafts“. The patron of the competition is Heike Werner, Thuringia’s managing Minister for Labor, Social Affairs, Health, Women and Family.

It is often the large companies that are associated with successful recruitment of skilled workers from abroad and local integration. But small businesses and micro-enterprises in particular also make an important contribution with their commitment, often with voluntary goals. For example, they facilitate internships to promote long-term entry into the economy in the region.

This year, the i-work intercultural company award was conferred on November 04, 2024.

Since this year, the commitment to interculturality has also received official political support from the two mayors and the city councils of the neighboring towns of Kahla and Hermsdorf.

“Hermsdorf is a ‘hidden champion’ in the technology region of Jena and the surrounding area,” says Mayor Benny Hofmann (non-party). “Our technology companies and research institutions need the knowledge and manpower of international specialists, because we can’t meet demand with just the next generation from Thuringia.” The partnership in the i-work business award should be seen as a starting point, he said, so that the numerous local companies – many of which are under the umbrella of the Tridelta Campus – can present their good examples of integration and learn from others.

Kahla Mayor Jan Schönfeld (Freie Wähler Kahla) describes the motivation for becoming a partner of the i-work award in a similar way: “We want to set an example for our welcoming culture. Companies in Kahla – just like in Jena and all of Thuringia – depend on international skilled workers. The challenge – especially in rural areas – is to ensure that cooperation works well.” The topic is supported by all city council members, he said.