The top management levels of German organisations are anything but diverse. But whereas the discussion surrounding a mandatory quota of women in leading roles is well under way, the debate on cultural diversity in the professional area is only just beginning, even though Germany is a country of immigration. But why are there so few Managing Board members, artistic directors, state councillors and CEOs from an immigrant background? Because a successful career doesn’t just take talent and ambition, but also contacts; in this regard, there is not a level playing field for everyone. That’s why eight dedicated, Hamburg-based individuals – some from an immigrant background, some not – joined forces to launch a project in spring 2013: Schotstek. Akin to a sailor’s knot, which ties together two separate strands of rope, our organisation establishes an unparalleled connection, thereby creating something new from two separate things. In our case, we offer a unique scholarship programme that overcomes the hurdles facing students and young professionals from an immigrant background while also building a supportive community.