Bielefeld is the northernmost major city in North Rhine-Westphalia. This city located near the Teutoburg Forest was a key producer of linen for a long time. Today it is home to various traders and service providers, as well as many businesses in the food, printing, clothing and machinery industries. In addition to Bielefeld University, many universities of applied sciences are based in this rapidly growing city. In 2023, the state government of North Rhine-Westphalia designated Bielefeld as a ‘European Active Municipality’ (‘Europaaktive Kommune’). This title is awarded to municipalities that are exemplary in their commitment to a vibrant and sustainable Europe.