Bitkom: 26% of German Tech Startups Are Considering Leaving Germany

Germany has long been regarded as one of Europe’s most innovative hubs, with Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg attracting global talent and capital. However, a new survey by Bitkom, the country’s leading digital industry association, has revealed that 26% of German tech startups are considering relocating abroad. The primary reason cited is a shortage of accessible venture capital, coupled with investor caution in a challenging economic climate.

According to the survey, only 23% of founders believe that sufficient venture capital is currently available in Germany. In comparison, 81% say that investors are more risk-averse than they were in previous years. This shift is putting pressure on young companies, particularly in rapidly growing sectors such as artificial intelligence, mobility, and clean energy.

Why Startups Are Looking Abroad

The study highlights that capital availability is the primary driver behind relocation plans. On average, startups said they require €2.5 million in new funding to achieve their growth objectives. Yet, only 24% feel financially secure for the next two years without new investment, forcing many to explore options in markets where late-stage capital and risk-friendly investors are more readily available.

Potential destinations include the United States, other EU countries, and emerging hubs in Asia. No single country dominates the relocation plans, but the underlying message is clear: startups are actively evaluating alternatives outside Germany.

Confidence Despite Concerns

Interestingly, despite widespread concerns about funding, 79% of startups remain confident they can reach their financing goals. This resilience demonstrates that, while founders acknowledge the challenges, they remain optimistic about their ability to secure resources—whether in Germany or elsewhere.

IPOs and Growth Strategies

Beyond venture capital, many startups are considering initial public offerings (IPOs) as a financing route. Over half of the surveyed companies (53%) stated that they could envision going public. Among these, 45% would prefer a German stock exchange, while 40% would look abroad, reflecting both confidence in local markets and the appeal of international exchanges.

Government Response and Policy Changes

The findings have raised concerns in both the startup community and political circles. In September 2025, the German cabinet approved a draft law aimed at improving financial conditions for startups. The reforms are designed to ease IPO rules, lower minimum share values, and make equity financing more attractive. Policymakers hope these steps will reduce the risk of a talent and innovation exodus.

The Bigger Picture: Germany’s Innovation Dilemma

Germany’s startup ecosystem has strong foundations, including a sizable domestic market, access to world-class research, and a growing network of accelerators and incubators. However, structural issues—such as limited access to growth capital, bureaucratic hurdles, and a conservative investment culture—continue to limit scaling opportunities.

If more than a quarter of tech startups are seriously considering leaving, the country risks losing its competitive edge in emerging fields like artificial intelligence, fusion energy, and advanced mobility. Without targeted measures to bridge the capital gap, Germany may fall behind innovation leaders like the United States, the United Kingdom, or Israel.

The Bitkom survey serves as a warning sign: 26% of German tech startups are exploring relocation due to funding shortages. While optimism among founders remains high, Germany must address structural funding challenges to retain its most promising companies. The government’s new startup law is a step in the right direction, but execution will be critical.

For Germany to remain a global leader in innovation, it must ensure that capital, talent, and regulatory conditions align with the ambitions of its entrepreneurial community.