Record number of new start-ups
A record-breaking over 3,000 new start-ups were founded in Germany in the first half of 2026, thanks to the AI boom.
Berlin (dpa) – A record number of new start-ups was established in Germany in the first half of the year. “There is currently a start-up boom in Germany,” Minister for Economic Affairs Katherina Reiche said to the German Press Agency, pointing out that it was now key to turn this development into a growth spurt. The goal was for good ideas to evolve into successful companies and possibly even global market leaders, she explained. It was found in a new study conducted by the start-up association that 3,053 new businesses were set up between January and June. Artificial intelligence is the main driver here, as it enables entrepreneurs to get started more quickly and with less seed capital.
Katherina Reiche plans to implement a new start-up strategy to support growing businesses in Germany. A draft version comprising a number of measures such as improved financing conditions, a reduction of red tape and easier founding processes is currently being coordinated.
