The financing situation for startups in Germany remains tense. A recent survey by Digital association Bitkom shows that one in four tech startups (26 percent) is considering moving abroad. The study identifies a lack of venture capital as the main reason.
"The difficult financing situation compared to international standards has been a problem for many German startups for years. With initiatives such as the Future Fund, politicians have recently counteracted this, and more must be done now,"
appreciates Bitkom President Ralf Wintergerst the situation.
Investors are cautious
81 percent of the startups surveyed noted that investors have become more cautious due to the economic situation. Only 23 percent consider the venture capital available in Germany to be sufficient. The average capital requirement of startups over the next two years is around €2.5 million. However, only 24 percent believe they have sufficient funding for this period.
The survey was conducted by Bitkom Research Conducted on behalf of the digital association Bitkom. Bitkom Research surveyed 152 tech startups from Germany between calendar weeks 12 and 21 of 2025.
USA, EU and IPO in focus
There is no consistent preference among startups considering relocation. 28 percent are considering the USA, 25 percent another EU country, and another 25 percent a European country outside the EU. 23 percent did not provide a specific answer.
Despite the difficult situation, many founders remain confident. 29 percent consider it very likely that they will receive the necessary financing, while 50 percent consider it somewhat likely. Only 17 percent see little chance, and two percent virtually rule out successful financing. An IPO also remains an option. 53 percent of the startups surveyed can fundamentally imagine taking this step. 40 percent are considering a foreign stock exchange, and 45 percent a German one.
“Our goal must not only be to keep tech startups in Germany, but also to make Germany truly attractive for founders from other European countries or even the USA,”
so Winter barley further.
