While the situation of their own company is still perceived as slightly positive on average, the overall view of the economic situation of start-ups is rather critical. For example, only 21% say the situation is improving (2024: 23%), while 47% say it is worsening (2024: 45%). More than one in seven startups (15%) fear that they will become insolvent in the next twelve months due to economic developments. A year ago, 11% were still worried about the threat of bankruptcy. “Many startups are feeling the effects of the difficult economic situation. For a good third of startups, however, the signs are clearly pointing to growth,” says Bitkom President Dr. Ralf Wintergerst.
Startups cite bureaucracy (63%), sales and customer acquisition (61%) and financing and capital procurement (52%) as the biggest challenges. “A consistent reduction in bureaucracy would help many startups. The new German government has committed itself to modernizing the state, and concrete measures are needed here quickly,” says Wintergerst. “This also applies to simplifying the awarding of public contracts to startups. This would not only benefit young tech companies, but also the state as a customer of innovative products.” For example, 39% of startups see access to public contracts as a major challenge. Just as many see their own growth and the scaling of their business model as a challenge. 34% cite legal uncertainties regarding regulatory requirements such as data protection or the AI Act, 21% product development, 19% the shortage of skilled workers, 16% technological challenges, 13% lack of demand and 11% competitive pressure.
Note on methodology
The data is based on a survey conducted by Bitkom Research on behalf of the digital association Bitkom. This involved an online survey of 152 tech start-ups from Germany. The survey took place in the period from week 12 to week 21 2025. The survey is not representative, but provides a meaningful picture of the mood among tech start-ups in Germany. The questions were “In your opinion, how has the situation for startups in Germany changed in the past two years?”, “What are currently the biggest challenges for your startup?” and “To what extent do the following statements apply to your startup or in your opinion?”
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Further links
👉 www.bitkom.org
Photo: pixabay
