The German startup ecosystem is gaining momentum with 3053 startups founded in 2026, the highest number since 2019. With the right policies - both at the national and the EU level - the upturn could be amplified many times over.

While the EU claims to be enhancing the Single Market, doing business in Germany - the most populous country in the EU - remains heavily burdened by countless small requirements that raise costs for German and EU founders, deterring many small businesses from entering.

As the EU speeds up lawmaking, many Member States - especially smaller ones - are struggling to keep pace due to a lack of manpower and outdated practices. To avoid becoming mere observers, countries must urgently rethink how they work in Brussels - and at home.