New business models, together with good funding and infrastructure, contribute to Germany being globally acknowledged as a startup centre. With its population of 83 million, Germany is an attractive gateway for companies to access and scale up in the European market.
In 2016, the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy launched its Digital Hub Initiative, a Unique Ecosystem of Digital Transformation. Unlike centralized Silicon Valley, there are twelve separate digital hubs (“de:hubs”) in Germany. Here, medium-sized businesses and larger corporates connect with new innovation partners from the scientific and start-up communities. Foreign founders and investors find the perfect mix of sustainable networks, excellent research facilities, established economies and innovative startups.
Berlin and Munich both have strong positions in Germany's innovation and startup ecosystems. With around 500 new tech startups per year, Berlin has a fast-growing startup scene as well as a successful infrastructure for financing and funding. Other voices claim that Munich may be the new tech startup hub of Germany. With a booming tech sector and being considered the corporate capital of Germany, Munich offers companies including startups excellent collaboration opportunities in the innovation space.
Where is the right place for you to scale up your business?
Program
- Introduction: Insights into the German startup scene, Dominik Stute, Head of Unit Foreign Market Development & New Economy, Chamber of Industry and Commerce Dortmund
- The Digital Hub Initiative: Twelve hubs – one digital Network, Josefina Nungesser, Director of Trend & Innovation Scouting
- How does it work?
- How do you become part of a hub?
- The "Startup-location-battle" - Berlin vs. Munich. Which is the best city to boost your start-up?
