Infrastructure & resilience

The investment landscape in the coming years offers companies a wide range of business opportunities—particularly in the sectors of construction, energy, IT, security technologies, transportation, and digitalization. The modernization of critical infrastructure and the digitalization of public administration are opening up new markets, including through collaboration with the public sector. In addition, the European ReArm Europe Plan creates further potential: companies that contribute to strengthening the European Defense Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB) benefit from new funding instruments and strategic relevance at the EU level.

Yes—both at the national and European levels. At the federal level, projects in areas such as electric mobility, charging infrastructure, energy efficiency, IT security, and digital infrastructure are specifically supported—partly through grants, partly through tax incentives, and partly through low-interest loans. At the EU level, programs such as the European Defense Fund (EDF) and the ReArm Europe Initiative provide access to funding for companies developing security-related technologies, dual-use products, or innovation-based collaborations.

Companies should familiarize themselves with the relevant procurement portals at an early stage—such as the federal government’s e-procurement system, TED (EU), or the state-level procurement marketplaces. In addition to formal proof of eligibility, sustainability certifications, IT security standards, and procurement experience are playing an increasingly important role. For defense-related projects, there are also heightened requirements regarding confidentiality, IT security, and corporate reliability.

In addition to technical capabilities, industry-specific certifications are required—such as in the areas of confidentiality, security clearances under the Security Clearance Act (SÜG), export controls, or NATO/EU certification. Particularly in EU projects such as ReArm Europe, differing national regulations are to be expected, making an early compliance review advisable. Greater harmonization is expected in the future—it is an integral part of European defense strategy.

Digital sovereignty is increasingly becoming a criterion for funding and contract awards. Companies that develop technologies on a European or national basis have an advantage when it comes to winning contracts—especially in sensitive areas such as cloud infrastructure, platform solutions, data processing, and communication networks. The use of open standards, interoperability, and GDPR compliance are crucial.

PPP models offer private companies the opportunity to participate in long-term public sector infrastructure or IT projects—as construction or operating partners, technical service providers, or financing partners. New projects are planned particularly in the areas of education, energy supply, mobility, and digital administration. Key factors for success include transparent contractual models, a fair allocation of risks, and a robust governance framework.

Critical infrastructure sectors such as energy, healthcare, transportation, and water are subject to stringent regulatory requirements. Companies seeking to operate in these sectors must comply with technical security requirements, audit obligations, and industry-specific protection frameworks—including emergency planning and IT security. Of particular relevance are the IT Security Act 2.0 and industry-specific standards such as B3S. ESG criteria and sustainability requirements are also gaining in importance.

Cybersecurity is a strategic priority for the German government—particularly in the context of critical infrastructure and government digital projects. Companies can strengthen their security architecture through funding programs (e.g., “Digital Jetzt”), industry initiatives (e.g., BSI partnerships), or EU funding. Within the framework of the ReArm Europe Plan, cybersecurity is also viewed as a field relevant to innovation that should be specifically supported—particularly for small and medium-sized providers with technological specialization.

Through initiatives such as the ReArm Europe Plan and the EDF, the EU aims to strengthen its defense and technological capabilities. In particular, the EU is seeking SMEs, startups, and research partners that provide innovative solutions for security-related applications—such as in the fields of AI, robotics, sensor technology, or dual-use technologies. Access to EU funding requires the ability to collaborate, project structuring, and alignment with European standards. For many companies, this presents their first opportunity for transnational funding and access to new markets.

Innovative companies can play a direct role in shaping future infrastructure through pilot projects, test beds, or research collaborations. In this context, the government is increasingly acting as an “innovation customer”—open to new technologies, modular approaches, and scalable solutions. Targeted innovation partnerships are particularly sought after in areas such as AI-supported security, autonomous transport, space travel, and digital resilience—both at the national and European levels.