Bitkom: Every eleventh tech startup fears insolvency

The mood among German tech startups is divided. A current survey by Bitkom Research among 133 tech startups shows: 35 percent report an improvement in their situation last year, while 30 percent report a deterioration. The remaining 35 percent see their situation unchanged.

The surveyed companies assess the general situation of the German startup scene much more pessimistically: Only 19 percent see an improvement here, while 37 percent see a deterioration. Particularly alarming: 9 percent of startups fear insolvency in the next 12 months – that corresponds to one in eleven surveyed companies.

The survey took place in calendar weeks 3 to 6 of the year 2026. While not representative, according to Bitkom, it provides a meaningful snapshot of the mood in the tech scene in Germany.

Only half would found in Germany again

The assessment of location attractiveness is problematic: Only half of the founders surveyed would found a new company in Germany again. 20 percent would opt for another EU country, 7 percent for the USA, and 11 percent for another country worldwide. 8 percent did not provide an answer, 5 percent would not found again at all.

“Many startups are making progress, but just as many are struggling with the difficult economic situation,” explained Bitkom President Dr. Ralf Wintergerst. “What would help everyone: easier access to public contracts, less regulation, and more opportunities to use data for innovative services and technologies.”

Wintergerst emphasized the importance of corresponding political measures: “Germany has built an internationally competitive startup ecosystem in recent years. The startup scene needs committed political support, especially under the persistently difficult economic conditions.”

Bitkom published the complete results of the survey in a press release.

(fo)