The health industry in Cologne is well supported by a wide-reaching and densely-packed system of 200 companies, which has repositioned the city as a leading hub in the Health and Life Sciences sector – a status that has earned the city international attention. As demographic changes and a heightened focus on health reshape the industry, Cologne is at the forefront, driving advances in biotechnology, medical technology, and digital health. The healthcare industry in Cologne is a significant economic force, employing around 80,000 people and generating €6.5 billion annually. This makes it the second-largest sector in the city. Cologne’s prominence in Health and Life Sciences is further reinforced by its concentration of cutting-edge research facilities. The city boasts ten internationally recognized universities, approximately 40 hospitals and clinics, and three Max Planck Institutes, making it a busy center of medical research and education. The knowledge generated in these institutions is directly transferred to students, ensuring a continuous pipeline of skilled professionals ready to contribute to the industry. Innovation is at the heart of Cologne’s healthcare sector. The city is home to approximately 60 startups and scaleups, driving forward-looking solutions that are shaping the future of healthcare. Technology centers like BioCampus Cologne and RTZ Köln provide a collaborative environment for startups, SMEs, and large corporations, fostering interdisciplinary cooperation and the exchange of ideas. This collaborative ecosystem is supported by several industry networks, including BioRiver – Life Science in the Rhineland, Digital Health Germany, BioCologne, and Gesundheitsregion KölnBonn. These networks facilitate knowledge sharing and industry development, further enhancing Cologne’s status as a key player in the healthcare industry. Moreover, Cologne hosts several federal authorities that play crucial roles in health regulation and education, such as the Federal Centre for Health Education (BZgA) and the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM).