The German federal government has announced a total of 28 measures to support startups—more than any government before. The industry association Bitkom is now taking stock.
According to Bitkom, ten of the 28 planned projects have been fully implemented, and 13 more are in progress. In only five cases, nothing has happened. Bitkom President Achim Berg is nevertheless not entirely satisfied with the work of the Federal Government:
“This federal government had set itself high goals in digital policy and achieved a great deal, but it fell short of its promises, especially when it came to startups.”
Berg also praises the work of the federal government:
"It has recognized the importance of young, innovative companies for our economy. It maintains an active dialogue with the startup community and is familiar with the challenges faced during the start-up and growth phases. Furthermore, the federal government has adopted a whole series of individual measures that benefit startups."
“We have to think ‘digital first’”
But, according to Berg, the concrete steps often fall short of the possibilities and requirements. Among other things, the IT association criticizes the fact that a promised venture capital law has not been passed. Bitkom would also have preferred a "start-up period" announced in the coalition agreement, similar to the family care leave model.
Looking to the future, Berg demands:
"Above all, we must be careful in the future to truly think and act 'digital first' and to examine all new laws to see whether they advance digitalization or unnecessarily hinder innovation, especially from startups."
In addition, the association demands that young people in school and training should be more motivated to start their own businesses.
