Since its opening in 2019, the Einstein1 digital start-up center in Hof has been a central hub for founders, self-employed individuals, and start-ups in Upper Franconia. Achim Hager has been the new managing director there since July 2025 and also serves as chairman of the board of Wirtschaftsregion Hochfranken e.V. We spoke with him about developments in recent months, his first impressions, and the challenges and prospects facing the center.
Mr. Hager, how would you describe the current state of the Einstein1 Digital Start-up Center?
“I can say quite clearly that Einstein1 is almost fully booked. We are well utilized with many uses and activities. The coworking space, offices, and event rooms are regularly used by founders, start-ups, freelancers, and other cooperation partners. We are constantly seeing inquiries and engagement, which shows that Einstein1 is being accepted as a contact point for innovative ideas and networking processes in the region.”
What developments have been particularly important for the start-up center in recent months?
“A significant step was the structural development of the center. Among other things, we have created new forms of cooperation with the Wirtschaftsregion Hochfranken e.V. (Upper Franconia Economic Region Association) and strengthened our presence as a networking location. Events, workshops, and networking formats—from specialist conferences to inspirational meetings—show that Einstein1 is much more than just a building: it is a lively meeting place for ideas and projects. The inauguration of the EINSTEIN obelisk in fall 2025 symbolically underscored this once again – as a visible sign of growth, innovative strength, and networking in the region.”
What makes Einstein1 particularly attractive for those interested in starting a business and start-ups?
“We offer a lot: start-up consulting, co-working, coaching, events, networking, and direct contact with regional companies, universities, and funding institutions are what make it so special. Start-ups not only find space here, but also an ecosystem in which they can network, develop, and gain visibility. Our services are aimed at anyone who wants to advance their start-up plans or launch new projects – regardless of industry or technical focus.”
How do you see the role of Einstein1 in regional economic development?
Einstein1 is a link between business, science, and start-up interest. Through cooperation with universities, companies, and networks—especially through our proximity to economic development agencies and Hof University—we help ensure that ideas not only emerge but can also grow sustainably. The daily interaction between established players and new founders creates added value and significantly strengthens Upper Franconia as a location for innovation.
What are your prospects for the future of Einstein1?
“Our vision is to establish Einstein1 as a permanent source of inspiration for digital innovation and entrepreneurial initiative in the region. This includes further expanding the network, offering more formats and collaborations, and becoming even more recognized as a platform for exchange, interaction, and cooperation. We see enormous potential in supporting young entrepreneurs in their development while also providing new impetus for the entire local economy. I see the support of company successors and the associated connection to search funds as further important points. Of course, contact with potential investors such as family offices, VCs, and PEs is just as important, as is ongoing exchange within the start-up center scene in Germany. Much of this does not need to be reinvented, but often only adapted and adjusted—and, of course, implemented.”
Thank you for talking to us.
