Study Reveals Persistent Gender Gap in Germany’s Start-Up Ecosystem

Women make up only 19% of start-up founders in Germany, a slight decline from last year, as systemic barriers continue to hinder female entrepreneurship.

A new study by the Startup-Verband and Bertelsmann Stiftung confirms that only 19% of start-up founders in Germany are women, with this percentage decreasing slightly from the previous year.
Key barriers identified include societal stereotypes, lack of female role models, and the challenge of balancing family responsibilities with entrepreneurship.
Traditional gender roles influence career choices, with women more likely to prioritize secure jobs over entrepreneurial risks compared to men.
Male founders often decide to pursue entrepreneurship earlier in life, while women typically make this decision later in their careers after gaining work experience.
The report warns that Germany risks losing valuable economic potential by failing to address these systemic issues, particularly during a period of economic stagnation where innovation is critical.