Hesse Launches 2026 Award for Businesses Championing Cycling and Walking Commuting

A new award is set to recognise businesses in Hesse that promote cycling and walking as part of their corporate travel policies. The active2work Award 2026, launched by the Hessian Ministry for Economic Affairs, aims to push companies towards greener and healthier commuting options. Applications will open for privately owned firms across the region from January 20 next year.

The competition is organised by the Hessian Ministry for Economic Affairs, Energy, Transport, Housing, and Rural Development. It forms part of the wider active2work initiative, which helps businesses introduce sustainable transport solutions, particularly for short local journeys.

Companies can apply from January 27 to March 13, 2026, via the online portal at www.active2work.de. The jury will assess entries based on measures such as secure bike storage, changing rooms, bike-leasing schemes, and campaigns encouraging active travel. No applicants have yet been announced, as the submission window has not yet begun. The winners will be chosen by a panel of experts. Minister Kaweh Mansoori, who oversees economic affairs and transport in Hesse, has stressed the role of cycling and walking in reducing emissions and improving employee well-being. The award ceremony will take place on June 24, 2026, at the Hesse pavilion during EUROBIKE in Frankfurt, where Mansoori will present the prize.

The active2work Award seeks to highlight businesses leading the way in sustainable commuting. Successful applicants will receive recognition for their efforts in making cycling and walking more accessible for staff. The initiative reflects Hesse's broader push to cut transport emissions and foster healthier workplaces.