Membership.
In four steps — with no small print hidden in the fog.
Who fits with us
Organisations, clubs, associations, natural and legal persons and public bodies from the European Economic Area that share the aims of the grouping. Partners from third countries can become associated members.
How it works
Get in touch
A short message via the form — what you have in mind is enough to start.
Conversation and review
We clarify mutual expectations, services and contributions — openly and concretely.
Admission resolution
The existing members decide unanimously on new members. That takes a moment — and ensures that the grouping fits together.
Accession and registration
Accession agreement, entry in the commercial register — from then on the pool, projects and funds are open to you.
Two types of membership
Member from the EEA
Full rights and obligations: one vote in the assembly, access to the pool, projects and funds, entry in the commercial register. Admission by unanimous resolution of the existing members.
Partners, including from third countries
Accession by private-law contract, no register entry, advisory vote, no liability towards third parties. If the home country accedes to the EU Treaty, the membership automatically becomes full membership.
Fees and contributions
No capital was paid in at formation. The members’ assembly may set an annual membership fee; special levies are adopted for specific projects. Members joining later may be asked for an admission fee.
Contributions need not be in cash: contributions in kind, work, know-how, patents, licences, office space or expertise count as well. Services provided by the grouping to members are invoiced fairly.
Participation
- One vote per member — regardless of size and business volume.
- A majority decides on the budget, annual accounts, management and committees.
- Unanimity for the admission of new members, changes to the object, contribution obligations and transfer of the registered office.
- Participation and voting also online; minutes and resolutions signed digitally.
- Termination with six months’ notice to the end of the year — a clear, fair exit.
Fees, contributions and liability are described here in general terms. What membership means for your company in tax, legal and economic terms depends on your situation. This website does not replace financial, tax or legal advice — please obtain independent advice before joining. Contractual services of the grouping are subject to the general terms and conditions; for members the statutes take precedence.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to give up or restructure my company?
No. Your company remains fully independent — the EEIG is an auxiliary entity alongside your business and may not exercise management or control over your activities.
What does membership cost?
No capital was paid in at formation. Fees and levies follow the resolutions of the members’ assembly and the joint projects — we discuss this in concrete terms in conversation.
How quickly can I become a member?
Admission requires a unanimous resolution of all members followed by registration in the commercial register through a notary. Allow a few weeks between the first conversation and registration.
What am I liable for?
Full members of an EEIG are jointly and severally liable for its debts without limitation — that is part of the legal form. This is why members decide unanimously on admissions, the management is bound by the adopted budget, and reserve funds cushion warranty cases and emergencies. Associated members are not liable towards third parties.
How are profits and losses distributed?
In principle equally by number of members — unless the assembly unanimously decides otherwise, for example a distribution according to participation in the respective project.
Can I take part from Switzerland or the United Kingdom?
Yes — as an associated member by contract with the grouping: without register entry, without liability towards third parties, with an advisory vote in the assembly.
Do I have to travel to Leipzig for every assembly?
No. Participation and voting are possible online; resolutions can also be passed in writing, by video conference or by e-mail. The working language of the grouping is German.
Can I leave again?
Yes — with six months’ notice to the end of the year, by declaration to the management. An earlier withdrawal is possible by unanimous resolution.