At the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, we work to shape a future worth living around the world – for people, our partner countries, Europe and Germany. For a society that protects the rights of the individual and embraces sustainable change.
About us
How do we contribute to a future worth living? With partnerships, a sense of responsibility – and consistent action. As a federal enterprise, we are committed to promoting international cooperation worldwide. Get to know us.
What sets GIZ apart
We are a federal enterprise with more than 50 years’ experience in international cooperation. We promote economic development and employment, are committed to supporting energy and the environment, and work for peace and security, particularly in fragile contexts.
GIZ in brief
- Registered offices in Bonn and Eschborn, Germany
- Business volume in 2024: around EUR 4 billion
- 24,530 employees in 120+ countries
- 66 per cent are national staff working locally
Personnel and business figures as at 31 December 2024
All relevant figures can be found in GIZ's latest company report.
Who GIZ works with
We work on behalf of the German Government, with international organisations, the scientific and academic community, civil society and the private sector. We have a presence in more than 120 countries and know the contexts and our partners well.
Why sustainable development is essential for a future worth living
Sustainability is the foundation of our work. Because social responsibility, ecological balance and economic capability must go hand in hand if future generations are to live safe, secure and dignified lives.
International cooperation that achieves results
We activate our expertise and experience for international cooperation, because global challenges can only be solved by working together. We have a worldwide network and implement international agendas together – we think globally and act locally.
Our work centres around producing results. We work in a partner-oriented, transparent, efficient and cost-effective manner at all times. We support change – from analysis and planning to implementation and evaluation. If the local situation changes, we respond quickly and effectively and leverage our experience. This produces the best possible results and facilitates effective implementation, including in crisis situations.
Our history
GIZ was established on 1 January 2011 as the result of a merger betwen three organisations: the German Development Service (DED), the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Technische Zusammenarbeit (GTZ) GmbH and Capacity Building International, Germany (InWEnt). The aim of this merger was to pool the expertise of German development cooperation, increase efficiency and enhance Germany's international profile as a partner for sustainable development. GIZ is a federal enterprise with the legal form of a limited liability company (GmbH). It is wholly owned by the Federal Republic of Germany, represented by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). Our roots stretch back more than 50 years – with experience that goes back to the 1960s.
