Internationaler Wirtschaftsrat e.V.

What Internationaler Wirtschaftsrat e.V. does

Internationaler Wirtschaftsrat e.V. (IWR) is a German registered association (eingetragener Verein / e.V.) headquartered in Berlin with a regional office in Brussels, serving as a business association for internationally active German small and medium-sized enterprises (Mittelstand). Founded with confirmed activity dating to 2013 via its UN Global Compact membership, IWR provides members — companies with annual revenue above EUR 1 million engaged in export or international investment — access to strategic networking, expert consultation, political advocacy, and entry into international procurement markets, particularly the United Nations system. Members pay a monthly fee of EUR 75 and are vetted by the IWR board, gaining entry to a curated ecosystem of more than 50 partner companies and an Expertengremium of 40+ specialists covering Africa, China, Latin America, Europe, sustainability, procurement, digitalization, and cybersecurity.

IWR's core offerings are the IWR Netzwerkplattform (strategic networking platform connecting Mittelstand with ministries, EU institutions, diplomatic missions, and international organizations), the Expertengremium (expert panel), IWR Veranstaltungen (events including seminars, workshops, business trips to markets such as Romania and El Salvador), and UN Procurement Beratung (consulting for German SMEs seeking to access UN procurement markets — a USD 29.6 billion annual opportunity, with Germany's share having declined from 1.76% to 1.24%). Supporting services include the IWR Podcast, the VereinOnline member portal, and thematic focus areas (Digitalisierung, Procurement, Global Goals, Innovationen, Globalisierung, Netzwerk). Sub-brands such as IWR Women, IWR Kunst, Wirtschaft & Kultur, IWR Zigarrenclub, and IWR Mallorca provide lifestyle-oriented networking formats. There is no proprietary software, API, SDK, or AI/ML product.

The revenue model is subscription-based on monthly membership fees of EUR 75 per member company. Distribution is sales-led through direct outreach, networking, and referral, with no third-party resellers or self-serve product channels. Governance rests with an elected Executive Board (Vorstand) led by Chairman Tino Barth, with members including Deputy Chairmen Dr. Gerhard Dust and Thies Borch-Madsen (also Treasurer), and board members specializing in sustainable finance, Africa/Francophonie, finance/investments, and leadership diagnostics. IWR is a member-owned association with no parent company, external shareholders, or institutional investors, and operates under GDPR compliance with full UN Global Compact participation since 2013.

Name

Internationaler Wirtschaftsrat e.V.

Legal name

Internationaler Wirtschaftsrat e.V.

Website

https://internationaler-wirtschaftsrat.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

2013

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Short description

Internationaler Wirtschaftsrat e.V. (IWR) is a Berlin-based German business association serving internationally active Mittelstand SMEs through networking, expert consultation, political advocacy, and UN procurement market access via a EUR 75/month subscription.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Trade Association Services

NAICS

Professional Organizations (81392), Business Associations (813910), Other Similar Organizations (except Business, Professional, Labor, and Political Organizations) (81399)

SIC

Services-Membership Organizations (8600), International Affairs (9721)

akta.pro primary industry

Technical Committees, Working Groups & Expert Panels (BPADANAB)

akta.pro secondary industries

Trade, Export Controls & Customs Compliance (BPAHAFAN), International Standards Development & Standardization Bodies (BPADANAA), United Nations System & Specialized Agencies (BPADAAAA)

Keywords

• Business association services
• SME international networking
• Trade policy advocacy
• UN procurement consulting
• Member portal access

Headquarters

HQ city

Berlin

HQ country

Germany

HQ region

Europe

Offices2 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Others

Revenue model

1. Membership fees: IWR generates revenue through monthly membership fees of EUR 75 per member company. The association also offers an exclusive member portal (VereinOnline) and benefit programs with partner companies, providing discounted services to members.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion1 record

Distribution channels2 records

Marketing channels6 records

Core offering

Internationaler Wirtschaftsrat e.V. is a registered German business association that supports internationally active Mittelstand and SME companies through a membership-based platform offering networking, advocacy, expert panels, events, and consulting services — including specialized advisory on accessing UN procurement markets for its member companies.

Product overview

Internationaler Wirtschaftsrat e.V. (IWR) is a membership-based economic association for internationally active German Mittelstand companies, offering a comprehensive ecosystem of networking, advisory, and business support services rather than a unified software product. The core offering consists of the IWR Netzwerkplattform (strategic networking platform), Expertengremium (expert panel with country and topic specialists), IWR Veranstaltungen (events including seminars, workshops, and entrepreneurial trips), and UN Procurement Beratung (international procurement consulting). Supporting services include the IWR Podcast, Mitgliederportal powered by VereinOnline, UN Global Compact membership, and thematic focus areas covering digitalization, sustainability, innovation, and globalization. The association also operates several sub-brands including IWR Women (women's networking), IWR Kunst, Wirtschaft & Kultur (culture club), IWR Zigarrenclub (cigar club), and IWR Mallorca (lifestyle networking), alongside participation in the Allianz der Verbände coalition. Members access benefits through an exclusive portal with partner discounts and data resources. The organization has no documented software product, API, or AI-driven technology offerings.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• Association Membership
• Networking Events and Expert Panels
• UN Procurement Consulting
• Member Portal (VereinOnline)
• Association Podcast

Quantifiable outcome

• UN procurement volume: USD 29.6 billion annually — IWR provides access to this market for German SMEs
• +1 more outcomes

Named customers1 record

Segments2 records

Ideal customer profiles1 record

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Partnerships

26 partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.

• MaibornWolff GmbHcoreGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2026IT service provider with approximately 800 employees at 10 locations in Germany, Spain, and Africa. Since its founding in 1989, MaibornWolff has advised clients including BMW, Mercedes-Benz, VW, Deutsche Bahn, IKEA, and Siemens on their digitalization journey. Brings extensive digitalization expertise to the IWR network.
• wineBANK HamburgminorGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2019Official cooperation partner since March 2019. A wine vault is available to members for tasting exquisite wines and enjoying the facilities.
• EcoTransminorGTM or Marketing PartnerEcoTrans is a transport and logistics company focused on individualized customer care, modern technology, and sustainable development. They offer tailored logistics solutions emphasizing trust, reliability, and timely delivery.
• Wir für GesundheitminorGTM or Marketing PartnerGermany's largest health network with approximately 450 clinics and numerous outpatient partners. Offers the PlusCard for private patient comfort and additional health services.
• Deutsche Finance GroupminorGTM or Marketing PartnerAn internationally active investment company operating for over 20 years, offering opportunities in real estate, private equity real estate, and infrastructure. Provides exclusive access to off-market investments and tailored investment strategies.
• VUVM e.V. (Versorgungswerk der Wirtschafts- und Unternehmerverbände Mitteldeutschlands)minorGTM or Marketing PartnerProvides free economic associations and SMEs in Central Germany with insurance, financial, and consulting services.
• SIXTminorGTM or Marketing PartnerCar rental partner with nearly 800 stations across Germany, offering members special rates through the IWR partnership.
• The German DeskminorGTM or Marketing PartnerTax and business consulting firm with around 150 employees at multiple locations in Belgium and Luxembourg since 1988.
• StiegelmarminorGTM or Marketing PartnerWine dynasty established mid-last century. Offers exquisite wines through the IWR benefit program.
• Marussia BeveragesminorGTM or Marketing PartnerSpecialized in importing and distributing premium spirits and wines from various countries worldwide, including vodkas, gins, whiskies, liqueurs, tequilas, and rum.
• KIWI MallorcaminorGTM or Marketing PartnerExclusive selection of water vessels for boat rental and yacht charter on Mallorca. Offers motorboats, motoryachts, sport boats, jet skis, and water sports equipment with or without skipper service.
• The Honourables Business and Lifestyle GmbHminorGTM or Marketing PartnerPartnership established 12 February 2019 for joint projects and events between The Honourables and IWR.
• Business Club HamburgminorGTM or Marketing PartnerEntrepreneur network bringing together people for encounters and personal connections through events, expert lectures, and networking.
• Business Club Frankfurt 2017 e.V.minorGTM or Marketing PartnerExclusive entrepreneur and decision-maker network offering a platform for exchange, cooperation, and inspiration through events, expert lectures, and networking. Also engages in social projects.
• DIVINO MallorcaminorGTM or Marketing PartnerCoastal wine destination offering selected wines from Mallorca, Spain, and worldwide, plus champagne, whisky, spirits, and gourmet food. Daily wine tastings and premium finger food available.
• SKILLS ClubminorGTM or Marketing PartnerCommunity of 100 members with strong cohesion and informal networking. Members meet at exclusive venues for inspiring events and relaxed exchange.
• Berlin Capital ClubminorGTM or Marketing PartnerFounded in 2001, the Berlin Capital Club offers around 1600 members an exclusive ambiance for business contacts and culinary experiences, fostering a harmonious network of politics, business, and sports.
• Allianz der VerbändecoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerCoalition of SME associations united to give the Mittelstand a unified and powerful voice in politics and public discourse. IWR is a founding member. The coalition addresses issues including digitalization, demographic change, and cross-industry challenges. Each member association brings additional expertise and reach.
• German UDS (University of Digital Science)minorStrategic or Co-development PartnerGermany's first fully digital, state-recognized university based in Potsdam. Offers Bachelor, Master, and Micro-Degree programs in AI, Cybersecurity, Data Science, and digital transformation. President Prof. Dr. Mike Friedrichsen is also an IWR expert.
• Go Silicon Valley e.V.minorStrategic or Co-development PartnerAssociation making the Silicon Valley spirit accessible to SMEs. Supports the setup of accelerators and innovation labs. Tagline: 'Silicon Valley is not a place, it is an attitude.'
• Initiative Hauptstadt BerlinminorGTM or Marketing PartnerInitiative promoting Berlin as a tolerant, livable, and future-capable city for all, bringing generations and cultures together through solidarity and engagement.
• BCCG (British Chamber of Commerce in Germany)minorGTM or Marketing PartnerConnects over 500 companies and entrepreneurs with European-British organizations. Young BCCG provides a platform for entrepreneurs under 40.
• New MittelstandminorGTM or Marketing PartnerUnites Mittelstand and startup culture: tradition as 'roots' and innovation as 'wings.' Aims for sustainable, future-proof economy with holistic innovation strategy and conscious resource use.
• DMUV (Deutsch-Mongolischer Unternehmensverband)minorGTM or Marketing PartnerDeutsch-Mongolian Business Association founded in 1995 in Ulan Bator. The oldest and largest bi-national business association in Mongolia with 79 members from German economy. Registered NGO.
• ITKAM (Italienische Handelskammer für Deutschland e.V.)minorGTM or Marketing PartnerItalian Chamber of Commerce for Germany, founded in 1911. Promotes economic relations between Germany and Italy with over 400 members and an international network.
• Tradepoint BrasilminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerGerman-Brazilian economic platform launched in cooperation with IWR expert Carlos Carvalho and Mako Soluções Industriais in Fortaleza, Brazil. Supports companies with German-Brazilian experts in real estate, tourism, industry, energy, and agriculture.

Scale indicators4 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Direct peers

• DMUV (Deutsch-Mongolischer Unternehmensverband): DMUV is a German-Mongolian bilateral business association founded in 1995 with 79 members. Comparable to IWR as a bilateral German international business association with similar membership model and networking focus, and listed as an IWR partner.
• BVMW (Bundesverband mittelständische Wirtschaft): BVMW is Germany's leading Mittelstand association representing small and medium-sized businesses with political advocacy and networking services. Directly comparable to IWR as a membership-based SME advocacy organization with similar Mittelstand focus and political engagement model.
• UN Global Compact Network Germany: The UN Global Compact Network Germany is the local network of the UN Global Compact initiative in Germany, supporting member companies on sustainability principles. Comparable to IWR in UN Global Compact affiliation and sustainability advocacy for German companies, though with a narrower sustainability-only mandate.
• Wirtschaftsrat der CDU e.V. The Wirtschaftsrat is a business association providing political advocacy and networking for German entrepreneurs, with explicit policy influence through its CDU affiliation. Comparable to IWR in member-led political advocacy and SME representation, though with stronger partisan alignment.
• BCCG (British Chamber of Commerce in Germany): BCCG is a bilateral chamber connecting 500+ UK and German companies through events, networking, and policy advocacy. Directly comparable to IWR as a chamber-style business association in Germany focused on international business networking, and notably one of IWR's listed partners.
• ITKAM (Italian Chamber of Commerce for Germany): ITKAM is the bilateral Italian-German chamber of commerce founded in 1911, promoting economic relations between the two countries with 400+ members. Comparable to IWR as a bilateral chamber/association in Germany focused on international business networking, and listed as an IWR partner.

Broad incumbents

• Eurochambres: Eurochambres is the Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry, representing 45 national chamber networks across Europe. Comparable to IWR as an EU-level business advocacy network, though with broader geographic scope and chamber-based membership.
• DIHK (Deutscher Industrie- und Handelskammertag): DIHK is the umbrella organization of 79 German Chambers of Commerce (IHKs), serving as a broad incumbent in SME advocacy with mandatory membership for most German businesses. Comparable to IWR in policy advocacy and internationalization support, but with much greater scale and statutory reach.
• International Chamber of Commerce (ICC): ICC is the global business organization representing 45 million companies in over 100 countries, with advocacy at the UN, WTO, and G20. Comparable to IWR in international business advocacy and SME representation, though at much larger global scale.
• GTAI (Germany Trade & Invest): GTAI is the German government's trade and investment promotion agency, helping German companies internationalize and attracting foreign investment. Comparable to IWR in internationalization support for German businesses, but as a government-backed entity rather than a private association.

Market position

Strengths4 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat4 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights6 records

Customer concentration

• YouTubeyoutube.com/watch?v=jY731riilnI
• Facebookfacebook.com/internationalerwirtschaftsratev
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/internationaler-wirtschaftsrat-e-v

Compliance2 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Internationaler Wirtschaftsrat e.V.