50.5% of founders received support from universities or research institutions such as the SCE, and for nearly 70%, this support was important or very important. Access to talent and the local startup scene were particularly crucial factors.
We see this as our mission as well: In addition to research and knowledge transfer, universities should, now more than ever, connect people and empower them to build a better future through responsible and sustainable businesses. The Startup Monitor also sends a clear signal on this issue: For 47.9% of founders, solving a social or environmental problem is an important motivation for starting a business.
Furthermore, 58.5% of founders expect positive economic developments; only 14.9% cite a shortage of skilled workers as a challenge; and the new legal entity “EU Inc.” simplifies and digitizes the startup process. Defense and AI remain key issues, particularly with regard to dependencies on U.S. tech providers and investments.
This makes it all the more important to further strengthen our ecosystem, connect talented individuals, and continue to foster entrepreneurial thinking at universities. The Strascheg Center for Entrepreneurship is proud to play its part in this effort in Munich!
The full 2026 German Startup Monitor is available from the Startup Verband.
© Image: Startup Verband