Established companies in Germany often have strong products and comprehensive market knowledge – but they often lack experience with innovative business models and digital technologies. A new study by the Digital Association Bitkom shows how companies are responding to this challenge: 32 percent are cooperating with tech startups.
These most frequently involve loose collaborations, for example, within the framework of startup competitions. Eleven percent of the companies surveyed develop new products or services together with startups. Three percent invest financially in young tech companies, and two percent establish their own startups from within the company.
Bitkom President Ralf Wintergerst emphasizes:
"There's a simple way to accelerate the digitalization of the German economy: more collaboration between startups and established companies. Small and medium-sized enterprises, which are immensely important for Germany, would particularly benefit from this. At the same time, collaborations strengthen startups, give them better access to the market, and make Germany a more attractive location for startups."
A key finding of the study: Companies that already work with startups are almost without exception satisfied. 46 percent report that their expectations were fully met. 47 percent say their expectations were somewhat met, and five percent even report that their expectations were exceeded. Virtually no companies reported negative experiences.
Collaboration with startups brings advantages – but many companies hesitate
Nevertheless, many companies remain hesitant. According to the study, 45 percent of non-cooperating companies cite a lack of budget as the main reason. 44 percent complain about a lack of contacts, and 42 percent lack a concrete project. 38 percent cite a lack of time as a hurdle. A quarter sees no added value in the collaboration, and 28 percent even view startups as competition.
Bitkom President Winter barley still sees great potential:
"Most companies would benefit from engaging with startups. The time and money required to do so is an investment in the future viability of their own company."
The representative survey was commissioned by Bitkom Research The survey was conducted by telephone among 603 companies with 20 or more employees. The survey period was between the second and seventh calendar weeks of 2025.
