DATAGROUP Takes Over Statewide IT Operations for BAföG and AFBG in North Rhine-Westphalia

DATAGROUP Takes Over Statewide IT Operations for BAföG and AFBG in North Rhine-Westphalia
 

Pliezhausen, January 21, 2026 – Starting mid‑2026, DATAGROUP will operate the BAföG and AFBG (Meister‑BAföG) funding procedures for the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. The contract, valued in the double‑digit million range, has an initial term of five years and represents a pioneering project in the digitalization of education administration.

DATAGROUP has been awarded the contract to manage the statewide operation of the BAFSYS2 specialist procedures in North Rhine‑Westphalia. Beginning in mid‑2026, the IT services provider will be responsible for the technical platform supporting the processing of educational funding applications under the Federal Training Assistance Act (BAföG) and the Upgrading Training Assistance Act (AFBG). Preparatory work began as early as August 2025, including the migration of data from the previous service provider and the setup of the system architecture based on CORBOX, DATAGROUP’s modular IT service portfolio designed to ensure stable and secure operation of business‑critical applications and infrastructures.

Introduction of a Statewide Specialist System

The new system is being implemented through a multi‑phase transition project. This includes migrating data from the previous provider, setting up technical interfaces, and building the operational environment. In parallel, twelve student unions, 53 municipal offices, and the Cologne District Government—responsible for international BAföG cases and AFBG—will be gradually integrated.

Approximately 1,000 caseworkers in North Rhine‑Westphalia will be trained on the new system and receive comprehensive support in preparation for the transition. A combination of functional testing, pilot deployments, and extended go‑live support will ensure a smooth changeover.

The BAFSYS2 system digitizes the entire processing workflow—from application submission and case handling to notification delivery. A fully integrated eFile and semi‑automated processing of incoming applications, emails, and paper documents significantly accelerate and standardize administrative processes. The system is complemented by a central knowledge database used by both the ministry and all connected authorities. Fully integrated receivables management will be introduced in a subsequent project phase.

Extensive Experience in Public Administration

The BAFSYS platform is already in use in 11 federal states, where it currently supports the processing of more than half of all BAföG applications nationwide. With the new contract in North Rhine‑Westphalia, DATAGROUP strengthens its role as a trusted IT partner for public-sector organizations and sets new benchmarks for process quality, security, and service orientation.

“Being selected to operate BAföG and AFBG statewide in North Rhine‑Westphalia marks a significant milestone for DATAGROUP. We bring extensive experience in digitalizing public funding processes and contribute meaningfully to the modernization and increased efficiency of education administration,” says Andreas Baresel, CEO of DATAGROUP.

About DATAGROUP

DATAGROUP is one of the leading German IT service providers. Some 3,700 employees at locations across Germany design, implement, andoperateIT infrastructures and business applications. With its CORBOXproduct, DATAGROUPis a full-service provider, supporting global IT workplaces for medium and large enterprises as well as public authorities. DATAGROUP is growing organically and through acquisitions.The acquisition strategy is particularly noted for itsoptimalintegration of new companies. DATAGROUP is activelyparticipatingin the consolidation process with its “buy and turn around” and its “buy and build” strategy.

CONTACT

Anke Banaschewski 
Investor Relations & Corporate Communication
presse@datagroup.de