Home to Museum Ostwall, Dortmund University of Applied Sciences and Arts and the European Centre for Creative Economy, plus eye-opening installations, this former brewery has become something of a symbol for the city's transition from industrial hub to tech-founder's dream.

As both a place that offers founders free workspace and a network that connects startups with potential mentors and investors, Essen's BRYCK can have real impact on the trajectory of a business. With its colourful light installations and wall murals, the space is fun to hang out in, too.

This cosy co-working space in Dortmund is aimed at companies with a sustainable focus and offers coaching and networking opportunities. The food is plant-based, coffee, fairtrade, and everything from the electricity to the cleaning products is made without harming animals. Tick, tick, tick.

The ex-boiler room of the Zollverein mine in Essen is an impressive setting for a gallery dedicated to products that have been awarded the prestigious Red Dot label over the years. Set aside enough time to explore its five floors, which are filled with everything from robots to coffee machines.