The technology park is home to many promising new hi-tech companies which have evolved primarily as spin-offs from the Rheinisch-Westfälischen Technischen Hochschule in Aachen. Business space with a range of facilities and services is provided to these companies on the basis of an extremely flexible leasing concept. The THP – a phased development constructed on the site of a former colliery - currently houses more than 70 businesses of a diverse nature, with a total workforce of more than 2,000 employees. As Herzogenrath’s partner, Kerkrade has a participating role in the park. Up-and-coming Kerkrade-based businesses can also choose to relocate to premises here under favourable terms.

Meanwhile, German businesses that are looking to expand can also take advantage of a similar scheme to relocate to Kerkrade. Nevertheless, those at the THP are subject to German tax and social insurance regulations, whilst businesses on the Kerkrade industrial estate are governed by Dutch corporate law. This represents a clear obstacle to many businesses and another glaring example of how national laws can impede the (economic) development in cross-border areas. With a bit more creative freedom cross-border regions might be afforded greater benefits.