The initiative is sponsored by the German government and commerce and industry, represented by the German Industry Association (BDI) and leading corporations. Its patron is German President Horst Köhler, who was widely recognized using the term "Land of Ideas" in his inaugural speech.

Members of the advisory board and board of trustees include Germany's former interior minister, Otto Schily, former BDI vice president, Michael Rogowski, BDI vice president Jürgen R. Thumann, Peter Zühlsdorff, General Manager of the German Industry Holding (DIH), and Dr. Wulf H. Bernotat, chairman of the board of the E.ON AG.

Under the chairmanship of Dr. Wulf H. Bernotat the initiative is being advised by further notabilities of the german economy and society.