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Business Consulting (Unternehmensberatung)
GewO §94 Z.67 Verified: April 2026
Key Facts
- Type: Regulated trade
- Common path: Business degree (MBA, BWL) + work experience
- Alternative: Qualification exam or individual assessment
- Registration: Free (€0)
- Note: IT consulting (pure technical) may be a free trade — check!
Important Distinction
IT Services vs. Business Consulting
Pure IT services (web development, software) are typically a free trade
(no qualification needed). Strategic business consulting that goes beyond pure IT
may fall under the regulated Unternehmensberatung. When in doubt, consult
the WKO Gründerservice.
Qualification Paths
| Path | Details |
|---|---|
| University degree + experience | MBA, BWL, or related degree + relevant work experience |
| Qualification exam | Exam fees covered by government since 2023 |
| Individual assessment (§19) | Extensive consulting experience without formal degree |
| Qualified manager | Appoint someone with the qualification |
Legally binding: German text of GewO 1994.