Summary
In a resplendent celebration of innovation and resilience, Berlin recently took center stage at the German Start-up Awards. The atmosphere was electric, infused with the anticipation of over 500 guests—including founders, investors, and politicians—gathered within the charming confines of the Tipi by the Federal Chancellery on a Thursday evening. Amidst the clinking of glasses and the shimmering elegance of tuxedos and evening gowns, two remarkable entrepreneurs stood out: Jenny von Podewils of Leapsome and Thomas von der Ohe of Vay, honored as the 2023 Founders of the Year. Their triumph marks a significant achievement for Berlin, reinforcing its status as a vibrant hub for start-ups, especially as the city had recently fallen behind Munich in the founding activity race. As the evening unfolded, Chancellor Olaf Scholz delivered an inspiring speech, his voice echoing the need for a rejuvenated start-up environment. “The heart of the start-up scene beats for the new and the impossible, and we must nurture a vigilant and agile ecosystem,” he urged, highlighting a year filled with unprecedented challenges due to global uncertainties. Indeed, the stark reality of a 18% decline in new ventures and a staggering 43% drop in investments loomed over the audience—reminders of a turbulent 2022. Yet, amidst these tribulations, hope glimmered. Scholz promised improvements in financing conditions for young enterprises, mentioning the upcoming Future Financing Act aimed at smoothing access to capital markets and easing employee equity participation. His commitment to expedite skilled immigration underscored a progressive approach toward stimulating the entrepreneurial spirit within Germany. In a captivating video message sent from New York, where she was expanding Leapsome’s presence in the U.S., Jenny von Podewils shared her vision of empowering career growth and fostering positive work environments through her company, which specializes in personal development software. Meanwhile, Thomas von der Ohe reflected on his entrepreneurial journey, candidly addressing the hurdles that Vay had faced, including technological dilemmas. His company strives to innovate mobility with a door-to-door service featuring remotely operated vehicles, and has already made waves by securing the first European permit for such operations in Hamburg. The night’s accolades didn’t end there. Young innovator Mona Ghazi was recognized as the Newcomer of the Year for her app aimed at enhancing knowledge transfer in family businesses. And in a nod to scientific advancement, Alexander Glätzle from Garching received accolades as he ambitiously works toward developing Germany’s first quantum computer based on neutral atoms. In this grand tapestry of celebration, the German Start-up Awards not only spotlighted stellar individuals within the entrepreneurial community but also served as a reminder of the potential that remains for creativity and innovation to flourish, even in the face of adversity. As the evening concluded, the message was clear: Berlin thrives on challenge and change, embodying the relentless spirit of start-ups ready to carve new paths toward the future.
Original Source: www.tagesspiegel.de
