Commenting on the German federal government’s start-up strategy, which was approved yesterday, eco’s Managing Director Alexander Rabe has the following to say:
“The plans of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) for start-up funding appropriately address two essential factors that are of particular relevance for the digital industry. These entail: more women in IT professions, and more IT competence in Germany through mandatory ICT education from secondary school level upwards. It is hoped that these central points will also be heeded by the bulk of the German federal government and that approaches will be set out as to how to implement them in a targeted manner at the state level. After all, no matter how much monetary support start-up companies in the digital industry might receive, what is ultimately decisive is having workers who can steer companies to achieve success. In this context, the current shortage of skilled workers in the IT sector is a clear disadvantage for Germany as a business location. As the Association of the Internet Industry, we welcome the fact that a strong voice has spoken out on the part of the BMWK in favour of both more women in IT professions and mandatory ICT education.
“With regard to other aspects of the strategy: The proposed further development of public financing instruments would also make it easier for start-ups to grow in Germany. In addition, the topic of employee capital participation is welcomed by the eco Association, as it sets the right accents for strengthening competitiveness in the start-up sector, also internationally. Likewise, eco welcomes the approach to simplify access to public contracts for start-ups. With its start-up strategy, the German federal government is providing important impetus to improve conditions for start-ups in Germany, also with regard to funding and financing rounds. This is essential for the innovative strength of Germany as a digital location, because green IT and climate tech start-ups in particular offer enormous potential and existing expertise for solving pressing global challenges. However, what is most important now is timely and pragmatic implementation, because digitalisation is not just waiting around for Germany; it is happening every day, worldwide, and only those who are at the forefront of development can benefit accordingly from the resulting value creation in a sustainable way.”
