Die Stiftung

Welcome to the Foundation “Stiftung Handwerk stiftet Zukunft”

The foundation “Stiftung Handwerk stiftet Zukunft” was established on December 23, 2009, by Berlin-based companies.
It is a cross-trade educational initiative supported by Berlin’s skilled crafts sector – including guilds, manufacturers, wholesalers, energy providers, educational institutions, and dedicated individuals.

Our shared mission is to promote high-quality vocational training and inspire young people to pursue careers in the skilled trades.


Our Motivation

The skilled trades sector is facing growing challenges:

  • A rising number of unfilled apprenticeship positions

  • A noticeable shortage of qualified professionals

  • A shifting demographic landscape

In light of these changes, we are committed to addressing key issues such as:

  • Insufficient career readiness and lack of vocational orientation among school leavers

  • A shortage of high-performing applicants

  • A growing group of “older applicants” with interrupted or difficult educational paths

  • Low female participation in technical trades

  • Underrepresentation of young people with migrant backgrounds


Our Goals

We aim to:

  • Create new apprenticeship opportunities in the skilled trades

  • Reduce the number of dropouts from vocational training programs

  • Enhance the image and appeal of craft professions

  • Promote future-oriented technologies within the trades

  • Strengthen innovation and training quality

  • Secure long-term career prospects for young people


Our Approach

To achieve these goals, we offer:

  • Comprehensive information on all skilled trades and their career paths

  • Tailored support for young people exploring career options

  • Targeted placement services for apprenticeships and internships

  • Personalized assistance to ensure candidates are ready for training

  • Systematic initiatives to improve the quality of vocational training

  • A strong network of all stakeholders involved in craft training

  • Cooperation with regional and international educational institutions


We believe: The future of the "German Handwerk" is bright – if we build it together.