The FUTURE Needs DIVERSITY Award

Diversity is a key location factor that is crucial for the competitiveness of regions and companies, both today and in the future. It is essential for companies to foster effective collaboration and take into account the diverse needs and life realities of their employees. Appreciation is demonstrated through many small and large initiatives that are tested, refined, and put into practice in everyday work life.

Whether it’s targeted knowledge transfer between generations, flexible work hours and locations for caregivers, accessible IT solutions, diversity-sensitive recruitment and development, individual support services for different life stages, clear co-determination frameworks, transparent decision-making processes, an open culture of feedback and dialogue, or the mindful handling of differing opinions and perspectives —there are numerous examples of how companies are successfully addressing current challenges such as the shortage of skilled workers, demographic change, and social polarization.

The ZUKUNFT braucht VIELFALT Award aims to highlight, recognize, and specifically support these and other successful examples in 2026 as well. The award honors companies from the region that are committed to diversity in various ways and can serve as inspiring practical examples for other companies.

Selection and Award Ceremony

Prior to the jury’s decision, the Hannover Region Economic Development Agency reviews the formal eligibility of the applications. The content is then evaluated by a jury based on established criteria.

Jury:

• Jasmin Arbabian-Vogel (Intercultural Social Services GmbH)
• Ayten Berse (ÜBV e.V., Hanover Region)
• Annelies Bruhne (Hanover Regional Church & Evangelical Association for Church, Business, and Labor)
• Ulf-Birger Franz (Hanover Region)
• Dr. Andreas Jäger (JÄGER Group)
• Dr. Annika Schach (Hannover University of Applied Sciences and Arts)
• Dr. Carl Michael Vogt (Hanover Chamber of Crafts)

The following aspects will be evaluated in particular:

• Involvement of internal and, where applicable, external stakeholders in the development and implementation of diversity initiatives
• Holistic approach and integration into internal company processes
• Transferability of the measures
• Quality and originality of the implemented measures
• Quality and originality of planned future measures
• The relationship between the established structures and measures and the size of the company

The presentation of the ZUKUNFT braucht VIELFALT Award will take place during the summer reception of the Economic and Employment Development Agency of the Hannover Region on July 1, 2026, at the Hannover Zoo.