Unternehmen: Viele junge Deutsche wollen Firmen gründen – wenige tun es

Gütersloh - A recent survey conducted by the Bertelsmann Stiftung reveals that 40 percent of young Germans between 14 and 25 years old are interested in starting their own company, but only 3 percent have actually taken the leap. Nearly one in ten respondents expressed a firm intention to become self-employed before turning 30. However, 29 percent outright ruled out entrepreneurship for themselves, according to the foundation.

The report highlights several reasons why young Germans hesitate to start their own businesses. A majority, 61 percent, prefer stable employment over the risk of entrepreneurship. Lack of knowledge, cited by 48 percent of respondents, and the stress associated with being self-employed were additional deterrents for 39 percent. Additionally, 10 percent of those surveyed cited the absence of a suitable business partner, while 9 percent pointed to a lack of confidence in their own abilities.

The Bertelsmann Stiftung also points to a stark contrast in the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor 2025/2026, which shows a nearly doubling of the percentage of young entrepreneurs aged 18 to 24 over recent years. While the share of entrepreneurs in this age group stood at 13 percent in 2024, it had risen to over 23 percent by 2025. The data, published by the RKW Kompetenzzentrum in Eschborn and supported by the German Federal Ministry of Economy, suggests a growing optimism among young Germans about entrepreneurship.

Ivo Andrade, an expert at the Bertelsmann Stiftung specializing in youth and economy, expressed optimism about the findings. "It's encouraging to see such a high interest among young people in starting their own businesses. New enterprises often bring fresh ideas, create jobs, and boost competitiveness. In the current challenging economic climate, Germany urgently needs such a boost from the entrepreneurial spirit."