Finance

One in four German startups could leave over lack of capital, poll finds

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on July 22, 2025

1 min read

· Last updated: January 22, 2026

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One in four German startups could leave over lack of capital, poll finds
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BERLIN (Reuters) -One in four tech startups in Germany is considering leaving the country due to concerns that an economic slowdown in Europe's largest economy was weighing on prospects for securing

A Quarter of German Startups Consider Exiting Due to Funding Woes

BERLIN (Reuters) -One in four tech startups in Germany is considering leaving the country due to concerns that an economic slowdown in Europe's largest economy was weighing on prospects for securing venture capital, a study released on Tuesday showed.

Some 26% of participants in a study by digital business association Bitkom said they were thinking about leaving, and only 23% were of the opinion that there was sufficient venture capital in Germany.

The vast majority of the 152 tech startups surveyed, 81%, said investors were showing more restraint due to the economic situation.

Nonetheless, Bitkom said 79% of companies were either confident or very confident that they would achieve their financing goals, with startups requiring an average of 2.5 million euros ($2.92 million) annually in fresh venture capital.

($1 = 0.8548 euros)

(Writing by Rachel MoreEditing by Madeline Chambers)

Key Takeaways

  • 26% of German startups consider leaving due to funding issues.
  • Only 23% believe there is sufficient venture capital in Germany.
  • 81% of startups report investor restraint amid economic concerns.
  • 79% remain confident in achieving financing goals.
  • Startups need an average of €2.5 million annually.

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of German startups are considering leaving the country?
One in four tech startups in Germany, or 26%, are considering leaving due to funding concerns.
What is the general sentiment among investors towards startups?
The vast majority of surveyed startups, 81%, reported that investors are showing more restraint due to the economic situation.
How confident are startups about achieving their financing goals?
Despite the challenges, 79% of companies expressed confidence or strong confidence in achieving their financing goals.
What is the average funding requirement for startups in Germany?
Startups in Germany require an average of 2.5 million euros, equivalent to approximately $2.92 million.
How many participants were surveyed in the Bitkom study?
The Bitkom study surveyed a total of 152 tech startups.

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