Dear supporters,

Learning should help, not ruin your life!

I am writing to you today because I find myself in a difficult and stressful situation. A few years ago, I set up a side business to help people with their further education. I wrote study guides for various Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) further education courses and was able to help many candidates pass their exams successfully. I also set up a website where all the key information on further education and learning could be found.  

By setting up my small business, I wanted not only to offer people support with their professional development, but also to boost my income so that I could provide a good life for my family. The books I wrote received consistently very good reviews, and many exam candidates thanked me for my support.

Before I started this project, I specifically sought confirmation and permission from the DIHK, which provides the basis for the exams. Nevertheless, after a few years, the DIHK filed a lawsuit alleging copyright infringement – a lawsuit that I consider disproportionate and unfair. Unfortunately, the court ruled in favour of the DIHK, and I now face a claim of €30,000, which I am unable to settle.

We don’t know what to do. If we were to pay in monthly instalments, the burden of debt would follow us for many years and severely restrict our lives. This lawsuit feels unfair to us, and it appears that the DIHK is deliberately trying to force small providers like me out of the market.

That is why I am asking for your help today. Every donation – no matter how small – represents a step towards a future free from this crushing debt for me and my family. We are infinitely grateful to everyone who supports us during this difficult time.

Thank you very much for your help and understanding!

With warm regards,

Pascal B.