Join us in this episode as we explore the innovative world of biopharmaceutical production. Startups like Ningaloo Biosystems, NanoStruct, and Greenable are revolutionizing the field with cutting-edge technologies. Learn how optogenetics is transforming drug production, advanced biosensors are speeding up pathogen detection, and carbon footprint management software is driving sustainability in biopharma.

Key takeaways include:

• How optogenetics uses light to control bioreactor processes, reducing costs and enhancing efficiency.

• The impact of NanoStruct’s rapid pathogen detection on food safety and pharmaceutical manufacturing.

• The importance of Greenable’s sustainability software for meeting new regulatory requirements like the CSRD and digital product passports.

"Innovation is reshaping healthcare. From cost reductions to faster production timelines, startups are at the forefront of change," says Alexander David, CMO of Greenable.

Discover insights into the challenges startups face, including navigating regulatory hurdles and overcoming cost barriers, and learn how collaboration and innovation are key to success. Whether you’re a startup founder, an investor, or simply passionate about biotech, this episode offers invaluable perspectives on the future of biopharma.

Resources:

• Original Blog Post

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• Special Offer from ModernIQs

Call to Action:

Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share! Leave a review and join the conversation on social media to let us know your thoughts.

Tune in to the latest episode of our podcast, where we discuss the top news and trends in German, Swiss, and Austrian (GSA) startups. From European unicorns to emerging tech companies, we cover it all in this monthly show. Don't miss out on the latest tech news and startup updates!

Our Highlights:

Joe already did a 2023 review focused on valuations and investments. All publications more or less agreed that 2023 was hopefully rock bottom for startups, their valuation, funding and founding of new ones and it should get better. Thumbs pressed for that (as is German custom). Our former guest Finn raises 100 M€, unicorn 1Komma5 Grad is looking for 100 M€, Unzer loss amounts to 400 M€ and Everphone raises 270 M€. Despite the dire situation, almost 2,500 new startups were founded in Germany. Also one should take notice of Karlsruhe, a city with a world-class technical university, that is home to INTERATEC which raised 118 M€ for efuels. Please, take a moment and match again all the bad news we have gathered here and weigh it against entrepreneurs sticking their heads out and even raising hundreds of millions from investors. Congratulations to those brave ones! Let's talk startups:

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Find all links and Show Notes Here:

https://medium.com/startuprad-io/this-month-in-german-swiss-and-austrian-gsa-startups-january-2024-startuprad-io-e-412-8aed840bed61

#startupradio #startupnews #startuppodcastgermany #technews #technologynews #techpodcast

Executive Summary

In this episode of Startuprad.io, host Jörn "Joe" Menninger and guest Thomas Kösters, MD at DEEP Ecosystems, discuss the potential of Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) as a hidden gem for AI startups. They highlight the region's strong economic leaders and growing AI scene in cities like Warsaw, Bucharest, and Prague. While CEE is not heavily represented in AI startup locations, it shows promise in reaching the top 15 European rankings for AI startup investments. They also delve into AI investments and trends in Europe, including machine learning, big data, and natural language processing.  The episode ends with a call for listener suggestions for future topics of analysis.

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Questions Discussed in the Interview

• What factors contribute to the success of AI startups in cities like Bucharest, Budapest, Warsaw, and Tallinn in Central Eastern Europe?

• How do economic leaders like Poland, Bucharest, and Prague drive the growth of startup and AI scenes in Central and Eastern Europe?

• What are the main challenges for Central and Eastern European AI startups when it comes to attracting investment and building successful ecosystems?

• How do multinational teams and collaboration across borders contribute to the success of startups in Central and Eastern Europe?

• What are the key trends in AI investments in Europe, and how do they compare to global trends in AI investment?

• What opportunities and obstacles do AI startups face when expanding or near-shoring their teams to countries like Croatia, Serbia, Greece, and Poland?

• Why is Berlin rated as the top destination for starting an AI company, and how does it compare to other popular locations like London?

• Given the potential of Central and Eastern Europe as a growing hub for AI startups, what strategies can be employed to further develop and promote the region's AI ecosystem?

• ...

About the Pulse of the European Startup Ecosystem

The European startup scene is changing fast. There are new players, old ones fading away, and even more to come in their place- all vying for a piece of this growing pie! To avoid getting left behind, you need regular updates on what's going on so that our entrepreneurs can stay one step ahead when building or investing in companies here: https://deepecosystems.com/

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Feedback

We are always looking for ways to make the show better. Please take this opportunity and share your feedback with us! We would love to hear from YOU!!! https://forms.gle/mLV6mVKwGwKuut8BA

All Links and Show Notes Here is our blog post:

https://medium.com/startuprad-io/the-cee-ai-scene-exploring-investment-growth-and-key-entrepreneurial-hubs-16245f4403ae

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Summary

Welcome to Startuprad.io, your go-to podcast and YouTube blog for all things related to the German startup scene. In today's episode, we have a special treat for you as our host, Jörn "Joe" Menninger, takes the mic solo to share his insights from a recent visit to Huawei Connect in Paris. Unfortunately, the planned interview with an AI startup from this event had to be rescheduled, but Joe is excited to give you a behind-the-scenes look at the event and highlight some of Huawei's initiatives in green and digital transformation. Tune in as Joe shares interesting stories about salmon conservation, wildfire protection, and innovative energy generation. He also talks about the importance of digital transformation in achieving sustainable solutions. Plus, stay tuned for a sneak peek of the upcoming interview with an Italian AI startup. Don't forget to reach out to Joe with your suggestions for future guests and topics. So sit back, relax, and let's dive into this solo episode of Startuprad.io.

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Questions Discussed

1. What were some of the main focal points discussed at the Huawei Connect event?
2. How does Huawei support SMEs in Germany with their digital transformation?
3. What are some interesting projects or stories that were shared at the event?
4. How does Huawei combine renewable energy sources to ensure a smooth energy delivery?
5. Why is the digital transformation important for achieving a green transformation?
6. What tools and solutions does Huawei offer for small companies and home offices?
7. How did Huawei use AI to generate an automatic avatar and translate languages?
8. What is Huawei's focus in Europe and why is it an important market for them?
9. What is the Huawei eKit tool and how can companies benefit from it?
10. How can listeners suggest interview guests or topics for future episodes of the podcast?

Feedback

We are always looking for ways to make the show better. Please take this opportunity and share your feedback with us! https://forms.gle/mLV6mVKwGwKuut8BA

All Links and Show Notes

https://medium.com/startuprad-io/my-huawei-connect-experience-navigating-the-intersection-of-green-and-digital-transformation-8a2e59102670

#startups, #germany #austria #switzerland #podcast #youtubeblogger #radiostation #radiostations #ai #aitools #aitoolbox #italy #parix #huawei #huaweiconnect #interview #green #greentransformation #transformation #green #digital #accelerator #sme #kmu #salmon #woods #wildfire #hardware #software #renewableenergy

Welcome to our March 2024 wrap-up with vital news from the startup and tech entrepreneurship scenes in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland in 30 minutes or less 🙂.

Our startup news is recorded with Chris in New York City and Joe in Frankfurt. Recording date is March 25th 2024 and all news not included will be in our next news to be released on April 25th 2024.

Happy Easter!

Today we publish on Holy Thursday (Gründonnerstag) in Germany. Note that the Friday before and Monday after Easter are public holidays. Many people will take off around the holidays. So don’t expect your calls to be returned promptly during this time.

A Seismic Shift in the Regional Startup Scene

You are witnessing a seismic shift in the GSA startup scene with us here and today. The headlines of our startup news used to be dominated by fintech funding. Now we have more than 7 billion € investments in green startups (battery, renewable energy) vs. “only” around 150 million in fintech funding in different forms. This is surely a foretaste of what’s to come.

Our Highlights:

The European energy landscape is witnessing significant developments with key investments across sectors.

Northvolt’s Gigafactory in Northern Germany, backed by €900 million in subsidies and a €4.5 billion investment, aims to produce 1 million car batteries annually, driving electric vehicle adoption and job creation.

Enpal secured €1.1 billion in refinancing commitments, while Sunfire raised over €500 million, bolstering Europe’s green hydrogen economy.

ENVIRIA secured $200 million in capital from BlackRock, signaling confidence in the solar sector.

Solaris Bank secured €96 million in funding but faced a €6.5 million fine from BaFin, reflecting fintech regulatory challenges.

Magic gained traction with open AI’s and Tesla’s former Andrej Karpathy as investor, and Bitpanda established a €50 million VC fund for blockchain startups. However, the startup community grapples with stress, with nearly half considering quitting, underscoring the toll of rapid innovation.

Let’s talk startups: https://medium.com/startuprad-io/this-month-in-german-swiss-and-austrian-gsa-startups-march-2024-a49996ca44f9

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Housekeeping & Time to Brag — Celebrating one Million Downloads in a Quarter!

1 Million confirmed downloads in Q4 2023: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7176895440510955520/

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The Hosts

The news are co-hosted by Jörn “Joe” Menninger, startup scout, founder, and host of Startuprad.io. And Christian “Chris' ' Fahrenbach, co-founder Startuprad.io, freelance reporter, lecturer, author and blogger . Reach out to them:

Joe on LinkedIn

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Chris on Twitter

🎙️ Next Step in Machine Learning with Danko Nikolic | Startuprad.io Podcast

Join Jörn "Joe" Menninger as he interviews Danko Nikolic, CEO and Founder of Robots go Mental. Dive into their groundbreaking machine learning algorithms inspired by brain research, shaped by Danko's background in psychology and statistics from the Max Planck Institute. Discover how Robots go Mental is transforming AI with innovative self-training algorithms and impactful collaborations, including a project with NASA.

This episode highlights the challenges of launching a deep tech startup in Germany and the critical need for supportive infrastructure. Danko invites talent and investors to join their mission to revolutionize AI.

🔗 [Read more](https://www.startuprad.io/blog)

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Welcome

Welcome to our summer 2023 wrap-up with vital news from the startup scenes in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland in 30 minutes or less 🙂.

This time we wrap up September 2023. There have been a lot of news sad (insolvencies, final closures, …), but also good ones (expansions, fundings, …) that we just had to make a selection in order not to bore you to death.

Our startup news is recorded with Chris live in New York City and Joe in Frankfurt. The recording date is September 26th and all news not included will be in our next news to be released on October 26th.

Our Highlights:

We track close to 500 mn Euros in newly announced investments in GSA. We have the first defense tech unicorn in Berlin and a lot of great news from Greentech startups in Germany. Some proptechs are not doing well, but not all startups associated with construction are performing poorly, as shown by the fundraising from Schüttfix. Long-distance trucking gets more autonomous with FERNRIDE and some bank news: Deutsche Bank uses Swiss DLT startup Taurus' technology and we learn more about JP Morgan's retail offering in Germany. Unicorn Flix already hired banks for their IPO in H1 next year. We also keep you updated on the bank holidays in Germany in the next weeks.

Let's talk startups:

Find all links and show notes here: https://medium.com/startuprad-io/this-month-in-german-swiss-and-austrian-gsa-startups-september-2023-startuprad-io-e-397-40c9c7b5fa2c

🚗 Sustainability Meets Innovation in the World of Electric Vehicles!

In this compelling episode of Startuprad.io, host Jörn "Joe" Menninger sits down with Alexander Sohl, the visionary CEO and founder of Me Energy, to discuss how his company is changing the game for electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure. If you’ve ever wondered about the future of sustainable mobility and the challenges of EV adoption, this episode is a must-listen.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

1. The Breakthrough Innovation: Discover how Me Energy’s bioethanol-powered fast chargers deliver off-grid EV charging solutions, making EV adoption feasible in remote and urban areas alike.

2. The Entrepreneurial Journey: Hear Alexander’s inspiring story, from his early days in engineering to founding a company that overcomes grid constraints with renewable energy.

3. Overcoming Adversity: Learn how Me Energy navigated the turbulent waters of insolvency in 2024, emerging stronger and more focused on sustainable growth.

4. The Role of ESG in E-Mobility: Understand how environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles shape the EV industry and why sustainability is non-negotiable for companies like Me Energy.

5. Global Expansion Plans: With a newly secured investor, Me Energy is poised to expand into the US and Southeast Asia, revolutionizing EV infrastructure on a global scale.

Notable Highlights:

• Alexander’s Eureka Moment: The frustration of a power-starved charging station during a test drive in the Swabian Alps inspired the idea for Me Energy’s off-grid solution.

• Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Visit: A personal endorsement from Germany’s Chancellor brought significant visibility and momentum to the company.

• Practical Applications: Major corporations like Mercedes-Benz and logistics firms are already leveraging Me Energy’s solutions to meet ESG compliance and reduce carbon footprints.

Why This Episode Matters:

The EV revolution is here, but without innovative solutions to address infrastructure challenges, widespread adoption could stall. Me Energy is tackling these challenges head-on with scalable, eco-friendly technology that aligns with the needs of businesses, governments, and consumers.

Alexander also shares valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, offering practical advice on building resilient startups in heavily regulated industries.

Episode Links:

• 🌐 Me Energy Official Website: https://me.energy

• 📖 Read Related Blogs: https://www.startuprad.io/blog/

• 🎙️ Explore More Episodes: https://www.startuprad.io/episodes

Call to Action:

🌟 Loved this episode? Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast on Spotify! Share your thoughts on social media using #Startupradio and #SustainableMobility. Have a question for Alexander? Leave a comment or tag us on LinkedIn or Twitter to join the conversation!

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Summary

Looking to build a lean startup and expand into new markets? Join us as we discuss the best strategies for attracting German and Austrian investors and establishing a successful startup in Berlin and Hamburg. Stay updated on the latest startup news and learn from other successful entrepreneurs in the field. Don't miss out on this valuable insight!

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Questions Discussed in the Interview

• In what ways does keeping a lean balance sheet and avoiding inventory give Fleet a competitive advantage in the market?

• Given that Fleet has managed to exceed 10 million euros in annual revenue, what strategies would Alexandre consider for maintaining and accelerating this growth?

• What lessons did Alexandre take from his time at Rocket Internet that he has applied to his approach to international expansion with Fleet?

• Alexandre emphasizes the importance of team building. What qualities does he look for in a leader for entering a new market, such as Germany?

• Could Alexandre share some insight into the process and criteria he uses when evaluating startups and founders for potential angel investments?

• What are Alexandre's long-term visions for Fleet, and how does he foresee the company evolving in the next few years, especially regarding its expansion into the German market?

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The Founder

In this enlightening episode of Startuprad.io, we have the pleasure of engaging with Alexandre, a seasoned entrepreneur with a diverse and impressive background. Alexandre's journey has taken him across the globe, from obtaining his master's in Paris to enriching his education at Technologico de Monterrey in Mexico, and even spending time in Australia. His international experience has not only fostered a passion for travel and a taste for spicy Mexican cuisine but has also given him a broad perspective on business and culture. Before founding Fleet.co, Alexandre honed his skills in the world of private equity and further sharpened his entrepreneurial instincts at Rocket Internet, one of the world's largest internet incubators. The episode delves into Alexandre's narrative, underpinning his approach to building and scaling businesses. His fondness for new experiences, highlighted by his Australian adventures and the willingness to try local delicacies like Marmite, demonstrates the same curiosity and openness that fuel his professional endeavors. Alexandre's path isn't just a tapestry of global adventures; it's also a testament to his strong investment in the local startup ecosystem. By actively participating as an angel investor, he continually supports and uplifts emerging businesses. With such a rich tapestry of experiences and a clear passion for entrepreneurship, Alexandre brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to the Startuprad.io audience.

All Links and Show Notes Here is our Blog Post:

https://medium.com/startuprad-io/building-a-lean-startup-and-entering-new-markets-fleet-co-startuprad-io-e-414-fc0144c93ce5

In this episode of Startuprad.io, host Jörn "Joe" Menninger explores the essential findings from the 2024 Deutscher Startup Monitor (DSM), offering a comprehensive analysis of the latest trends shaping the German startup ecosystem.

Joe highlights the B2B dominance now evident in nearly 75% of startups, showcasing how the shift towards business-focused models is becoming a key strategy for sustainable growth. This trend is led by companies like Celonis and Personio, which are proving that long-term business relationships are more critical than ever in the startup world.

Another major theme discussed in this episode is the growing focus on sustainability. Nearly 50% of startups in Germany now identify as part of the green economy, with their eco-friendly solutions attracting a wave of ESG-focused investors. Joe explores the challenges and opportunities that come with building a sustainable business model in today’s climate.

Funding challenges are also a hot topic in 2024. With rising interest rates and more cautious VC investments, many startups are struggling to secure capital. According to the DSM, 74% of startups are planning to raise external funding in the next 12 months. Joe offers valuable insights into alternative funding sources, such as government programs, business angels, and venture debt, helping founders navigate this tight funding landscape.

The episode further delves into the exciting rise of deep tech and AI as innovation drivers in Germany. With 11.4% of startups focusing on disruptive technologies like quantum computing and artificial intelligence.

Joe also discusses the geographic distribution of startups across Germany, revealing how startup hubs like Berlin, Munich, North Rhine-Westphalia, and Hesse are emerging as key regions for innovation and growth.

Key Topics Covered in This Episode:

• B2B Focus: Why 74.7% of startups are focusing on B2B customers and what this shift means for the ecosystem.

• Sustainability & Green Economy: Nearly half of all startups are eco-friendly—what does this mean for investors and founders?

• Funding Challenges: How startups are adapting to the tighter funding environment, and which sources of capital are most accessible.

• Deep Tech & AI: The rise of quantum computing and AI in Germany and their role in driving innovation.

• Regional Startup Trends: A look at Germany’s top startup hubs and why some regions are better for growth than others.

Resources:

• Full DSM Report: Deutscher Startup Monitor 2024 Report

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• Find Investors & Partners: Startup Raven

Join us in this episode of Startuprad.io as we explore the dynamic world of logistics with Boris Bösch, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Everstox. Discover how Everstox is reshaping the industry landscape through innovative technology and strategic partnerships. Boris shares insights into Everstox's journey, from its inception to its ambitious plans for expansion and Series B funding in 2025.

Delve into the intricacies of logistics management as Boris discusses Everstox's AI-driven software platform, designed to optimize batch tracking, inventory management, and returns processes. Learn how Everstox ensures high customer satisfaction across diverse international markets while navigating complex logistical challenges.

Explore the strategic importance of modular software solutions and strong partnerships with industry giants like DHL and UPS. Boris highlights Everstox's asset-light approach and its role in delivering efficient, customer-centric supply chain solutions akin to contemporary successes such as Flix and Uber.

Uncover the future of logistics and inventory management as Boris shares his insights into the role of AI and data integration. Gain valuable perspectives on international expansion strategies and the cultural approach of Everstox within diverse markets.

Whether you're a logistics enthusiast, an entrepreneur, or a curious listener, this episode offers invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of logistics and the innovative solutions driving its transformation.

Visit Everstox online to explore job opportunities and learn more about their groundbreaking solutions. Don't miss out on this enlightening discussion with a visionary leader at the helm of logistic innovation.

Find All Links and Show Notes Here:

https://medium.com/startuprad-io/everstox-revolutionizing-logistics-with-ai-and-modular-software-db3e1a533284

The Interviewer

This interview was conducted by Jörn “Joe” Menninger, startup scout, founder, and host of Startuprad.io. Reach out to him:

LinkedIn

Twitter

Are you ready to revolutionize how your startup or SME operates? This episode of Startuprad.io is your ultimate guide to understanding the transformative potential of cloud-based ERP systems. Join host Jörn 'Joe' Menninger as he sits down with Ertan Özdil, the CEO and Founder of Weclapp, to explore how this cutting-edge technology empowers startups to scale efficiently, streamline operations, and stay competitive in a fast-evolving market.

What’s in This Episode:

• Weclapp’s Inspiring Journey: Discover how Ertan turned a groundbreaking idea into one of Europe’s leading ERP providers for small and medium businesses. Learn how Weclapp's innovative platform democratizes ERP software, making it accessible to startups and SMEs worldwide.

• Why Cloud-Based ERP is a Game-Changer: Gain actionable insights into how ERP solutions enable startups to integrate inventory management, customer relationships, and financial processes seamlessly into one platform.

• The Road to Scaling Success: Ertan shares candid stories of scaling Weclapp, from burning cash during the development phase to achieving a two-digit million-euro revenue milestone. He also discusses the challenges of calling off an IPO and how those lessons shaped the company’s future.

• The Role of Culture and Vision: Learn why company culture is the backbone of a scalable business and how staying true to your vision is critical for long-term success.

• The Future of ERP Systems: Dive into emerging trends like AI integration, predictive analytics, and mobile-first ERP strategies that are redefining the industry.

Episode Stats & Insights:

• 87% of startup failures are linked to poor operations management. This episode offers solutions to avoid that fate.

• The global ERP market is projected to reach $71.6 billion by 2026. Learn how startups can tap into this massive opportunity.

Episode Links:

• Watch the Video Interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/nCHjj7X9EqU

• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/de/podcast/startuprad-io-the-authority-on-german-swiss-and/id967788304

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• Follow the Editor in Chief on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/comm/mynetwork/discovery-see-all?usecase=PEOPLE_FOLLOWS&followMember=joernmenninger

In this episode of Startuprad.io, we delve into the AI Act, the European Union’s pioneering legislation aimed at setting clear and ethical standards for artificial intelligence across all sectors. With compliance deadlines approaching in 2026, the AI Act introduces a structured framework to assess and mitigate the risks posed by AI systems, impacting both established companies and emerging startups.

Join our host, Joe Menninger, as he welcomes Andrew Gamino-Cheong, CTO of Trustable, a leading AI governance software company.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. Understanding the AI Act’s Risk-Based Framework
   The AI Act categorizes AI systems by risk levels—Unacceptable, High, Limited, and Minimal or No Risk. Joe and Andrew break down what these classifications mean for businesses and discuss why certain applications, like real-time biometric surveillance, are banned while others are simply regulated.

2. Transparency and Accountability Requirements
   Discover why transparency is crucial under the AI Act. From documenting data sources to maintaining thorough audit trails, companies need to be upfront about how AI models are built and used. This episode discusses the new standards of accountability and how businesses can adapt to this framework without stifling innovation.

3. Challenges of AI Compliance and Shared Responsibilities
   The AI Act’s structure requires both AI developers and deployers to uphold compliance standards. Andrew explains what companies must do to ensure they meet these obligations, including the need for frequent testing and updates to AI models to mitigate risks.

4. What the AI Act Means for Entrepreneurs and Startups
   Smaller organizations may face significant hurdles in meeting the Act’s requirements, but Andrew shares insights on how startups can turn compliance into a competitive advantage. This episode is packed with tips on implementing AI responsibly, with compliance not only as a requirement but also as a selling point to potential customers and investors.

5. The Global Implications of AI Regulation
   As the EU takes the lead, other regions are watching closely. The AI Act may serve as a blueprint for future AI laws worldwide, potentially setting a global standard. Joe and Andrew discuss the similarities and differences between the EU’s AI Act and U.S. initiatives, like recent executive orders, and what this means for companies with international operations.

Links for More Information:

• Read the Full Blog Post on This Episode: https://www.startuprad.io/blog/the-ai-act-how-europe-s-new-regulation-shapes-responsible-ai-development

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This Month in German, Swiss, and Austrian Startups - June 2024 | Startuprad.io

Welcome to our June 2024 wrap-up, where we bring you the latest news from the startup and tech entrepreneurship scenes in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, all in under 30 minutes!

In this episode, recorded with Chris in New York City and Joe joining from Frankfurt, we cover the top highlights from June 25th:

### Highlights:

- Check24's Massive Marketing Campaign: Check24 launched a major campaign, distributing 5 million free Puma football jerseys in Germany, costing around €100 million. This initiative has sparked vibrant online discussions and driven app downloads, despite privacy concerns.

- Aviation News: Lilium seeks €300M in government aid to advance its "Lilium Jet," while Volocopter continues to vie for funding.

- Insurtech Updates: WeFox faces internal strife that could significantly lower its valuation from $4.5 billion, while Clark is preparing for a substantial funding round under new leadership.

- Amazon's Investment in Germany: Amazon announces an additional €10 billion investment in Germany, focusing on cloud data storage and logistics, bringing their total investment in the country this year to €17.8 billion.

- DeepL's Milestone: DeepL becomes Germany’s most valuable AI startup with a $2 billion valuation, following a $300 million investment.

- Black Semiconductor's Major Funding: Black Semiconductor secures €254.4 million to boost Europe's semiconductor industry, with plans to open a pilot facility in Aachen by 2026.

- Cognigy's AI Advancements: Cognigy raises $100 million to enhance AI-driven customer service automation, supported by major brands like Lufthansa, Toyota, and Mercedes-Benz.

- Flix's Strategic Moves: Flix considers private equity investment from EQT, potentially acquiring a 30% stake and altering Flix's path to a public offering.

Join us as we delve into these stories and more, highlighting the dynamic changes and strategic shifts in the DACH startup ecosystem. Stay informed with the latest developments in tech and entrepreneurship in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

For more in-depth coverage and analysis, visit our blog at [startuprad.io/blog](https://startuprad.io/blog).

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In this episode of Startuprad.io, we explore how AI tone-of-voice recognition is revolutionizing industries like education and startups. Our guest, Daniel Iglesias, CEO and Founder of Digi-Sapiens, shares insights into their groundbreaking technology that analyzes not just what is said but how it’s said.

Revolutionizing Communication with AI

What if your startup could decode emotional tones, improve communication, and deliver personalized user experiences? That’s exactly what AI tone-of-voice recognition brings to the table. Whether you’re a startup founder, investor, or tech enthusiast, this episode will open your eyes to the endless possibilities of this cutting-edge technology.

Key Topics Covered:

• The Tech Behind AI Tone-of-Voice Recognition: How Digi-Sapiens’ tools go beyond traditional speech recognition by focusing on tone, cadence, and emotion.

• Transforming Education: Learn about Laletu, a reading tutor powered by Digi-Sapiens, which supports students by evaluating their fluency and comprehension levels through tone-of-voice analysis.

• Real-World Applications for Startups: Discover how startups can leverage this technology to enhance customer interactions, train employees, and even develop personalized learning tools.

• Challenges and Opportunities: Daniel shares insights into navigating ethical considerations, overcoming biases in AI, and scaling this technology for global markets.

Notable Insights:

• 80% of communication is non-verbal \u2013 Tone matters more than you think!

• Digi-Sapiens’ technology helps address declining reading proficiency among students, providing tools that adapt to individual learners.

• Learn why Digi-Sapiens was crowned Startup of the Year 2024 by Frankfurt Forward, a testament to their innovation and social impact.

Guest Spotlight: Daniel Iglesias

With a background in banking and technology consulting, Daniel took a bold step in 2020 to create Digi-Sapiens. His passion for education and social impact drove the development of AI-powered tools that are making a difference in schools and startups worldwide.

Why This Episode Matters:

This episode isn’t just about AI \u2013 it’s about using technology to solve real-world problems. Whether you’re an educator, a founder looking to optimize team dynamics, or an investor scouting the next big innovation, you’ll walk away with actionable insights.

Episode Links:

• More About Digi-Sapiens

• Startuprad.io Blog

Call to Action:

Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to Startuprad.io on your favorite podcasting platform, leave a review, and share this episode with your network! Follow us on social media and let us know your thoughts using #StartupradioAI.

Executive Summary

In this in-depth episode of Startuprad.io, host Jörn "Joe" Menninger chats with Domenico Cipolla, CEO of Xentral, about his professional journey and the evolution of Xentral. Cipolla discusses his unique background, the importance of execution in business, and how Xentral serves SMEs with ERP solutions. He also shares insights on leadership, mistakes as learning opportunities, and the company's growth plans, including hiring for cultural fit. They touch on Cipolla's past roles and his ambitions for Xentral, underlining his belief in data-driven decisions and setting a clear vision for success.

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Introduction

Welcome back to Startuprad.io, where we dive deep into the dynamic world of startups and innovation. I'm your host, Jörn "Joe" Menninger, and today we're bringing you a conversation that's well worth the extra runtime - in fact, it's double our usual length.

Joining us in this exclusive interview is Domenico Cipolla, the charismatic CEO of Xentral - an ERP powerhouse transforming the landscape for German SMEs. From his small-town roots near Kiel, with Italian heritage and a childhood immersed in the family's pizzeria, Domenico takes us on a journey through his football-playing days to the wisdom-laden halls of academia, where he attended prestigious institutions across Europe and North America.

With a candid openness, Domenico reveals the philosophy that guides his leadership at Xentral - prioritizing learning from mistakes, promoting accountability, and nurturing a culture where execution meets data-driven strategy. We uncover the nuts and bolts of Xentral's business model, tailored for the specific needs of companies handling physical products, and witness the company's objective to improve processes and achieve customer satisfaction before eyeing international expansion. Armed with a deep-rooted belief that CEOs should not only set the vision but also foster the right environment for talent to thrive, Domenico shares anecdotes from his vast experience, spanning consulting at BCG to scaling e-commerce platforms and navigating the venture capital scene. He gives us an inside look at his role and alignment with co-CEO Bina, how Xentral got back on track after a period of hyper-growth, and the ambitious plans for team expansion.

So buckle up as we explore how this leader integrates his rich background into steering Xentral towards an exciting future, how a commitment to culture and the right attitude can make all the difference in hiring, and why there's both a challenge and humor in the quest for the thousands of potential clients yet to be reached. Stay tuned for a podcast episode that's as insightful as it is rich with humor and humanity - this is Startuprad.io.

All Links and Show Notes

Here is our blog post: https://medium.com/startuprad-io/inside-xentral-unveiling-startup-success-with-sequoia-and-tiger-global-5fc44b944ff7

### Podcast Description: The Path to US VC Funding: Tips from JC2 Ventures Partner Yvette Kanouff

In this episode of Startuprad.io, host Jörn "Joe" Menninger sits down with Yvette Kanouff, Partner at JC2 Ventures, to discuss the secrets to optimizing your VC pitch. Drawing from her extensive background in mathematics and technology, Yvette shares invaluable tips on crafting concise and compelling presentations, simplifying complex concepts, and understanding the perspectives of venture capitalists.

Join us as we delve into the importance of networking, building long-term relationships, and the power of personal meetings in the fundraising journey. Yvette also highlights key investment areas such as AI, security, fintech, and clean energy, emphasizing the role of disruptive technologies and stringent financial criteria in successful pitches. Additionally, Yvette shares her experiences with investments in anti-drone technology and the potential for European startups in deep tech and green tech.

Whether you're navigating cross-country investments, leveraging AI advancements, or preparing for your next pitch, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you succeed. Tune in for a conversation that’s sure to inspire and inform your entrepreneurial journey. Don't miss out on this engaging and informative episode!

Key Topics:

- Yvette's career in mathematics and technology

- Tips for concise and effective pitching

- Understanding VC perspectives and financial criteria

- The role of disruptive technologies in investment

- Networking strategies and building long-term VC relationships

- Insights into AI investments and the startup ecosystem

- The future of deep tech and green tech in Europe

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Join our monthly newsletter on Slack: https://startupradio.substack.com/

Sponsored by Startupraven:

Join our community of entrepreneurs and find investors and cooperation partners for early-stage startups. Sign up here: https://startupraven.com/

Guest:

Yvette Kanouff, Partner at JC2 Ventures, brings her robust expertise in technology and investment. Learn more about her groundbreaking work and investment strategies: https://www.jc2ventures.com/jc2-ventures-team-1-1

Tune in now for expert advice on securing VC funding and taking your startup to the next level!

Welcome to Startuprad.io™, your go-to source for news and insights into the world of German, Austrian, and Swiss tech innovation. Join us for conversations with industry leaders, game-changing entrepreneurs, and influential investors. Our guests include Nobel Laureates, Emmy Award winners, and Forbes list luminaries. We focus on startups around Series A funding, ensuring you get exclusive insights into the rising stars of tomorrow. Tune in for inspiring discussions that drive innovation and growth. Join us at Startuprad.io, where every conversation sparks new possibilities.

Episode Summary: In this episode, host Jörn "Joe" Menninger interviews Annelise Osborne, Chief Business Officer at Kadena. Annelise discusses her journey from commercial real estate to blockchain, highlighting the inefficiencies in traditional finance and the transformative potential of blockchain technology. She covers her book on blockchain and cryptocurrencies, the benefits of stablecoins, and the regulatory challenges facing Fintech in the US. Learn about the importance of marketing, strategic partnerships, and adaptability for startups. This episode emphasizes the need for clear regulations to foster financial innovation and the vital role of networking in the Fintech space.

Key Points:

1. Marketing for Startups

2. Blockchain Technology Potential

3. Traditional Finance Inefficiencies

4. Stablecoins and Cross-Border Transactions

5. Regulation and Compliance Challenges

6. Strategic Partnerships and Networking

7. Economic Downturns and Resilience

Notable Quotes:

• "So if I was a building owner, I could borrow cheaper, and I could borrow more money because of these bonds that took the risk off the bank's balance sheet." — Annelise Osborne [00:02:46]

• "When I learned about blockchain, to me, it was just an eye opener of how much more efficient it could make finance." — Annelise Osborne [00:03:53]

• "Marketing is different, takes different channels now, and it's more direct with all the digital world that we have, that we didn't have, you know, 15, 20 years ago, especially with social media." — Annelise Osborne [00:08:32]

• "Globally, ICOs raised billions because people wanted to find ways to invest their money." — Annelise Osborne [00:13:44]

• "Regulation is really around to protect investors. But where do you find, you know, with innovation and how do you find a way to regulate innovation when there's more ideas coming out with this technology?" — Annelise Osborne [00:15:16]

Leave a review, share the episode, and don't forget to subscribe for more insights into the world of startups and tech innovation!

Links:

• Interested in working with us? https://www.startuprad.io/become-a-partner

• Our sponsor Startupraven: https://startupraven.com/

• Subscribe to our newsletter: https://startupradio.substack.com/

• Full transcript and blog post: https://www.startuprad.io/blog

• Follow us on social media: https://linktr.ee/startupradio

Dive into the pulse of innovation straight from the heart of Europe with Startuprad.io! In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of digital logistics with Robert Großekathöfer, Country Manager for Austria at Schüttflix, and Jan Bruckner, Director Germany at ABA - Invest in Austria. Großekathöfer shares insights into Schüttflix's revolutionary digital logistics system for bulk materials in the construction industry and its expansion across Austria. Bruckner sheds light on Austria's digital infrastructure and investment opportunities, particularly in Vienna, aimed at attracting startups and international businesses. Discover the challenges and advancements within Austria's market and its strategic position for business relations in Eastern and Western Europe. Whether you're an investor, startup enthusiast, or curious about Austria's business landscape, this episode is for you!

If you're interested in working with us, check out our opportunities here: [PassionFroot](https://www.passionfroot.me/startupradio)

Join our community of entrepreneurs and invest in others' success with Startupraven: [Startupraven](https://startupraven.com/)

Don't miss out on our exclusive content! Follow us on Telegram for alerts: [Startuprad.io Channel](https://t.me/startupradiochannel) and subscribe to our newsletter on Slack: [Startuprad.io Newsletter](https://startupradio.substack.com/)

Tune in to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Castbox, and Good Pods, or visit our website: [Startuprad.io](https://www.startup.radio/)

Learn more about our guests:

- Robert Großekathöfer, Country Manager at Schüttflix: [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-gro%C3%9Fekath%C3%B6fer-48b70b131/)

- Jan Bruckner, Director Germany at ABA - Invest in Austria: [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/janbruckner/)

For further readings and additional resources, visit:

- [ABA - Invest in Austria](https://investinaustria.at/)

- [Work in Austria](https://www.workinaustria.com/)

- [Film in Austria](https://www.filminaustria.com/)

Share your feedback with us to help us improve the show: [Feedback Form](https://forms.gle/mLV6mVKwGwKuut8BA)

This interview was conducted by Jörn "Joe" Menninger, founder, and host of Startuprad.io. Stay up to date with our publication calendar: [Startuprad.io Publication Calendar](https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/0?cid=dXN0YXRwdXJjaWQub3JnX2oyMzA2Z2xhbjZxaXBhZ2hjdnNocjZxMjZpQGdyb3VwLmNhbGVuZGFyLmdvb2dsZS5jb20)

For all links and show notes, visit our blog post.

Like what you hear? You can tip us here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Startuprad.io

Welcome to our October 2023 wrap-up with vital news from the startup scenes in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland in 30 minutes or less 🙂.

This time we wrap up October 2023 in our 400th episode!

Our Highlights:

BioNTech is a very special case in Germany, but now one of their former Senior Vice Presidents (Katalin Karikó, has been awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine 2023 for her research in mRNA). Two German companies IPOed (yes, no startups, but still a good sign). Solar startup Nexwafe starts 120 M € funding, Black Semiconductor from Aachen is looking to raise 500 M €, and there is bad news about the former unicorn Infarm.

Let's talk startups:

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Our Enablers

This recording is supported by HTAI and the Enterprise Europe Network Hessen

This recording was made possible by HTAI and the Enterprise Europe Network Hessen. Look for our dedicated sub-podcast in partnership with them: Tech Startups Germany on our https://linktr.ee/startupradio

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Top News

Former Employee of BioNTech Receives as 13th Women Nobel Prize in Medicine

BioNTech is a very special case in the German startup world. During corona, they have been assumed to be responsible for 0.5% of GDP growth of all of Germany, one of the five largest economies in the world. Now they have another very unique distinction: A former Senior Vice President (2013–2022) of the company Katalin Karikó, has been awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine 2023 for her research in mRNA. Congratulations to her, being the 13th woman to have won a Nobel prize in medicine, she is sharing the prize with Drew Weissman.

Solar Startup Hunting for 100+ M € in Funding at 500 M Valuation

Freiburg, Germany-based solar startup Nexwafe starts new funding, aiming for 120 m € in Venture Capital at a valuation of up to 500 M €

Black Semiconductor 500 M € in Funding

Aachen, Germany-based chip startup Black Semiconductor about to close large funding of 500 M €, with up to 70% of government funding. The founders are looking to develop a new way to connect elements on semiconductors but may need up to 7 years for the technology to become viable on an industrial scale.

Bad News for former Unicorn Infarm

According to a blog post by Gründerszene, the German credit bureau Creditreform does score Infarm as "ausgefallen" (meaning defaulted). Local entities in the UK and Netherlands have filed for insolvency.

Find all links and show notes here: https://medium.com/startuprad-io/this-month-in-german-swiss-and-austrian-startups-october-2023-startuprad-io-e-400-08d0c5322756

In this episode of Startuprad.io, host Joe Menninger sits down with Professor Robert S. Langer, a renowned biotechnologist from MIT. Professor Langer, co-founder of Moderna and holder of over 1,400 patents, shares his expertise on biotech startups, innovation, and the future of mRNA technology.

Explore the critical differences between biotech sectors in Europe and the US, the key factors for biotech startup success, and the importance of great science, intellectual property, and business acumen. Professor Langer also discusses the essential role of government and private sector partnerships in fostering biotech innovation.

Discover insights on:

• Biotech landscapes in Europe vs. the US

• Success factors for biotech startups

• Future of mRNA technology

• Government and private sector partnerships

• Diversity in research and its benefits

• Funding challenges for biotech startups

• Advancements in drug delivery systems

Memorable Quotes:

• "Great science and intellectual property are the cornerstones of biotech success."

• "Diversity in research teams leads to innovative outcomes."

Enjoyed this episode? Leave a review and share it with your network! Subscribe to our podcast for more expert interviews and insights. Join our vibrant community of tech entrepreneurs and stay updated with the latest in biotech innovation.

Links:

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  #Biotech #Startup #Innovation #mRNA #RobertLanger #MIT #ModernMedicine #TechEntrepreneurship #Startupradio #Podcast

Lower your Costs of ISO 27.001 and SOC 2 Compliance by up to 85% [with our Parnter Vanta]

Achieving ISO 27001 or SOC 2 compliance can unlock major growth for your company and build customer trust, but this process can be time-intensive and costly. Vanta automates compliance, getting you audit-ready quickly and saving you up to 85% of associated costs. And Vanta scales with your business, helping you enter new markets. Join 7,000 global companies like Atlassian, Flo Health, and Quora that trust Vanta. Claim 20% off Vanta at https://www.vanta.com/startupradio

🚀 Discover the Future of Infrastructure Inspection with Twinsity's AI-Driven Technology! 🛠️

Welcome to Startuprad.io! In this episode, we're diving deep into the world of cutting-edge innovation with Twinsity, a startup revolutionizing infrastructure inspection using AI and drones. 🌐 Join us as we chat with Fabien Chalas, co-founder of Twinsity, who unveils their groundbreaking drone technology for inspecting aging infrastructure. 🏗️ Their software creates high-resolution 3D models and utilizes AI to detect defects like cracks and rust, ensuring safety and efficiency.

Interested in Working with us?

Have a look here: https://www.passionfroot.me/startupradio

🌟 What You'll Learn:

• How Twinsity's technology is reshaping infrastructure inspection.

• Their journey from a family business to a global startup.

• Plans for expansion into North American and Latin American markets.

Sponsored by Hessen Trade Invest and the European Enterprise Network, this episode explores the transformative impact of Twinsity's work on infrastructure maintenance. Whether you're an investor, tech enthusiast, or curious about the future, this episode is a must-listen!

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🔍 Key Questions Discussed:

• How does Twinsity's remote-first approach impact recruitment and company culture?

• What are the technical challenges behind drone-based inspections?

• How does AI enhance defect detection compared to traditional methods?

🌐 About the Founder:

Fabien Chalas, co-founder of Twinsity, brings a wealth of experience from his background in software engineering and renewable energy infrastructure. His vision drives Twinsity's mission to revolutionize infrastructure inspection.

🚀 About Twinsity:

Twinsity, founded by Fabien Chalas, leads the way in infrastructure inspection with its advanced drone technology and AI-driven defect detection. Their innovative approach ensures safety and reliability for critical assets worldwide.

Don't miss out on the future of infrastructure management! Tune in now to learn how Twinsity is transforming the industry.

💡 Find all blog posts with all the links on our blog

https://medium.com/startuprad-io/twinsitys-ai-driven-approach-to-safeguarding-structural-integrity-startuprad-io-e-423-4d0af81e5ca7

Startuprad.io™ - All Rights Reserved

In this episode of Startuprad.io, host Jörn "Joe" Menninger speaks with Rafael Fietzek, Co-Founder and Managing Director at COMPREDICT, to explore the groundbreaking advancements in automotive technology. COMPREDICT is leading the charge with its revolutionary virtual sensor technology, powered by AI, that is set to transform the way vehicles operate.

Key Takeaways:

• Virtual Sensors & AI Integration: Learn how COMPREDICT’s AI-driven virtual sensors are designed to replace traditional hardware sensors in vehicles, enabling more efficient and predictive vehicle maintenance. These virtual sensors enhance operational performance by monitoring critical aspects such as tire and brake wear, as well as vehicle dynamics, all through AI.

• Series B Funding Success: Rafael discusses COMPREDICT’s impressive $15 million Series B funding round, backed by high-profile investors like Michelin, BlackBerry, and Toyota's investment arm, Woven Capital. This investment boosts COMPREDICT’s credibility and positions them for further growth.

• Strategic Partnerships: Find out how COMPREDICT is collaborating with leading automotive manufacturers, such as Renault, Alpine, and Toyota, to integrate their virtual sensors into mass production vehicles, making a significant impact on the industry.

• Recruitment Challenges: The episode highlights the difficulties COMPREDICT faces in recruiting top international tech talent, as well as the hurdles associated with international visa processes, which slow down the hiring of skilled workers from outside Europe.

• Networking and B2B Sales: Discover the importance of networking at industry conferences and how building relationships with key decision-makers in the automotive sector is vital to securing large B2B deals.

• Future Roadmap: Rafael outlines COMPREDICT’s growth strategy, including plans to secure more production deals, continue expanding into global markets like Japan and the U.S., and prepare for a future Series C funding round.

Who Should Listen:

If you are a tech startup enthusiast, automotive engineer, AI expert, or investor, this episode offers valuable insights into how COMPREDICT is shaping the future of the automotive industry with cutting-edge AI solutions. You’ll also gain an inside look at the challenges and strategies involved in scaling a deep tech startup in a highly competitive industry.

Don’t miss out on this engaging conversation that covers innovation, AI, automotive partnerships, and the future of virtual sensors. Whether you're interested in automotive technology, AI applications, or startup growth strategies, this episode has something for you.

Links:

• Original Blog Post: https://www.startuprad.io/blog

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Executive Summary

In this episode of Startuprad.io, host Jörn "Joe" Menninger interviews Gülsah Wilke, the winner of the Impact Entrepreneur of the Year Award, at the German Startup Awards. They discuss Gülsah's background, including her studies at a private university and her career in consulting and media. They also talk about her experiences in Montreal and her unique perspective as someone with a dual cultural identity. Throughout the conversation, the focus is on Gülsah's impact-focused work and her role in supporting entrepreneurs.

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German Startup Awards 2023

This interview is in media partnership with the German startup association (Bundesverband Deutscher Startups https://deutschestartups.org/). Their German Startup Awards #GSA23 honor each year outstanding female and male founders and investors in special categories. You can learn more about the winners in our interview and on this website: https://germanstartupawards.de/rueckblick/rueckblick-2023 We already covered most winners of the #GSA21 and #GSA22

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Impact Entrepreneur of the Year 2023 - German Startup Awards

Gülsah is a talented and highly intelligent individual who stumbled upon the world of private business schools during her high school years. While attending the Akademie Verbegartiungliche, she met a girl named Iman, who shared with her the wonders of a private university where one could learn various languages and travel extensively. Intrigued by the opportunity, Gülsah decided to explore this new path instead of pursuing her original plan to study law in Bonn. She attended an information day at the school with her father and became even more interested in the possibilities it offered.

2Hearts

During the interview, Gülsah Wilke, the winner of the Impact Entrepreneur of the Year, discussed her startup called 2Hearts (https://www.2heartscommunity.com/). 2Hearts is a platform that aims to provide a home for individuals who have multiple cultural identities and want to connect with others who share similar experiences.

All Links and Show Notes

Here is our blog post: https://medium.com/startuprad-io/impact-entrepreneur-of-the-year-two-hearts-two-cultures-german-startup-awards-startuprad-io-14cfc0739aa9

Interested in Working with us?

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Executive Summary

In this episode, Joe interviews Andrea Tüttenberg, a female founder and professor at the University Clinic of Mainz. Andrea is the co-founder of Actitrex, a biotech startup focusing on immune cell therapy. She explains the journey from being a doctor and researcher to founding a company that develops treatments to minimize or avoid severe immune responses in patients undergoing stem cell transplantation and beyond. Andrea discusses the potential impact of their therapy, their need for funding, and the importance of talent acquisition. She also shares personal insights including the influence of her children and her dual roles as a doctor and entrepreneur.

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The Founder

Andrea is a remarkable female founder and entrepreneur in the biotech industry. Andrea is the co-founder of ActiTrexx, a biotech startup focused on developing treatments for severe immune responses and immune-mediated diseases. With a background in medicine, Andrea has a strong foundation in clinical research and experience as a doctor, a professor at the University Clinic of Mainz, and a recipient of prestigious awards in the field of research and academia. Her journey from medical doctor to researcher and now entrepreneur is a testament to her passion for pushing the boundaries of medical science to create impactful treatments for patients in need.

The Startup

Andrea Tüttenberg is the co-founder of Actitrex, a pioneering biotech startup focused on developing a novel cell therapy to treat severe immune responses in patients undergoing stem cell transplantation for conditions such as leukemia. Actitrex is waiting for the first patient for its clinical trials. As the company gears up for the next stage of development, Actitrex is actively seeking series B funding to support its expansion and the advancement of its groundbreaking therapy.

Find all links and show notes on our blog post: https://medium.com/startuprad-io/from-doctor-to-entrepreneur-shaping-the-future-of-stem-cell-transplants-54d02049dfd3

“I built the tech behind it to make it work, and, we got quite some revenue through through that, and, yeah, it was one of my first businesses that I really incorporated where it really went to the notary, Form the legal entity and all these things.” — Mario Hachemer

Executive Summary

In this episode of Startuprad.io, we are joined by the newest co-host, Mario Hachemer, who brings a wealth of experience in technology and entrepreneurship to the table. Mario’s journey has been nothing short of fascinating, from the rise and fall of his subscription box business to his role as CTO of FastBill and later for unicorn FreshBooks in Germany, eventually leading to his exploration of the world of AI as a freelance consultant and mentor. Mario’s insights into deep tech and AI’s impact on businesses and society are both thought-provoking and enlightening. Moreover, the hosts share a passion for science fiction and discuss the works of literary giants such as Ian Banks and Terry Pratchett. They also delve into Mario’s love for spicy food and his experiences in various countries. Join us as we delve deep into the world of tech, AI, entrepreneurship, and a touch of spicy cuisine with our new co-host, Mario Hachemer.

Like What You Hear?

You can tip us here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Startuprad.io

The Entrepreneurial Spirit: “I had trouble finding like-minded people. I studied my 1st university was in Koblenz, and it just there wasn’t that much of an entrepreneurial spirit.” — Mario Hachemer

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The New Co-Host

Mario Hachemer, (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mahachemer/) the co-host of Startuprad.io's Deep Tech Track, was involved in the successful startup Fast Bill. During his time with Fast Bill, the company raised significant venture capital, allowing them to develop innovative technology stacks and rapidly expand their operations. The company's success eventually led to its acquisition by FreshBooks, a major player in the accounting and invoicing software industry. Fast Bill's ability to attract venture capital and subsequent successful integration into FreshBooks showcase their achievements and position them as a standout player in the technology and startup landscape. Fast Bill set itself apart from its competition through its ability to not only raise venture capital but also develop and implement groundbreaking technology stacks.

Learn more about Mario or reach out to him:

https://twitter.com/MarioHachemer https://www.meetup.com/de-DE/grunderstammtisch-founders-table-frankfurtrheinmain/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/mahachemer/ mario@startuprad.io

All Links and Show Notes Here is our blog post: https://medium.com/startuprad-io/from-unicorn-cto-to-co-hosting-startuprad-ios-deep-tech-track-startuprad-io-e-402-073c63686fc4

Lower your Costs of ISO 27.001 and SOC 2 Compliance by up to 85% [with our Partner Vanta]

Achieving ISO 27001 or SOC 2 compliance can unlock major growth for your company and build customer trust, but this process can be time-intensive and costly. Vanta automates compliance, getting you audit-ready quickly and saving you up to 85% of associated costs. And Vanta scales with your business, helping you enter new markets. Join 7,000 global companies like Atlassian, Flo Health, and Quora that trust Vanta. Claim 20% off Vanta at vanta.com/startupradio

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🌟 April 2024 Startup & Tech Wrap-Up 🌟 | Germany, Austria, Switzerland | Biotech Breakthroughs, Fintech Boom & Space Innovation 🚀

In just 30 minutes, get the latest on the hottest entrepreneurship news from the heart of Europe! From groundbreaking acquisitions to futuristic ventures, here's what you need to know:

🔬 Novo Nordisk's €1.025B Biotech Splash! Discover how Novo Nordisk's landmark acquisition of Cardior Pharmaceuticals is reshaping the biotech landscape.

🚁 Volocopter's €150M Boost! Despite challenges, Volocopter gets a significant funding injection for its flying taxi vision.

💡 Zolar Shines with €100M! Learn about Zolar's massive credit line and its innovative financing options.

💰 ELEMENT Scores €50M! Explore how ELEMENT is revolutionizing InsurTech with its latest funding round.

🏦 Berlin: Fintech Capital! Berlin solidifies its status as the Fintech Capital with 160 thriving startups.

🛰️ Mynaric's Space Laser Triumph! Witness Mynaric's milestone in global space development with the CONDOR Mk3.

Don't miss out on the latest tech and entrepreneurial breakthroughs! Watch now for all the details. #entrepreneurship #technews #startupscene #startupradio

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Executive Summary

In this episode of Startuprad.io, host Jörn "Joe" Menninger interviews Michael Duttlinger from Cashlink. They discuss the importance of transparency with shareholders and how communication is key during a pivot. Cashlink, a leading registrar for tokenized securities in Germany, aims to disrupt the securities market and provide a more cost-efficient and transparent alternative to traditional intermediaries. They recently raised €7 million in a fundraising round and are collaborating with major financial institutions in Germany. Cashlink is focused on growth, acquiring new issuers and clients, and building its regulated financial institution to support the growing market for tokenized securities in Germany.

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Our Enabler HTAI and the Enterprise Europe Network Hessen

This recording was made possible by HTAI and the Enterprise Europe Network Hessen. These organizations have made tremendous contributions to helping startup businesses succeed and thrive, providing a range of services from helping to find grants to ongoing partnerships. By taking advantage of these resources, startup companies can network and develop innovative strategies for success on the international stage. The dedicated support of HTAI and the Enterprise Europe Network Hessen is paramount in providing startup businesses with the tools for lasting success. Learn more here: https://www.htai.de/ and https://www.een-hessen.de/

Questions Discussed in the Interview

• How has transparency played a role in Cashlink's relationship with shareholders? 

• In what ways did the communication with shareholders intensify during the pivot period?  How does Cashlink differentiate itself from traditional infrastructure providers such as Clearstream Banking Frankfurt? 

• What benefits does tokenization bring to participants in the securities market? 

• How has Germany's progressive regulation for tokenization contributed to the growth of Cashlink and the ecosystem as a whole? 

• What challenges did Cashlink face during its pivot from a fintech for money transfers to a tokenization market focus? 

• How did Cashlink navigate investor and stakeholder concerns during the pivot period? 

• How does increased competition in the tokenization market disrupt the traditional securities market and benefit investors? 

• What role does automation play in making securities handling more cost-efficient and creating new investment opportunities? 

The Founder

Michael Duttlinger, the founder of Cashlink, started his fintech journey with a typical garage story reminiscent of those heard in Silicon Valley.

All Links and Show Notes

https://blog.startuprad.io/revolutionizing-securities-exploring-tokenization-and-transparency-with-cashlink-e-403-f655217533fc

Boost Your Startup with Analyst Relations: Expert Tips from Chris Holscher

Welcome to another insightful episode of Startuprad.io, the go-to podcast for insights on German, Swiss, and Austrian startups. In this episode, host Joe Menninger sits down with Chris Holscher, an Industry Analyst Relations Specialist, to uncover the often-missed opportunities that industry analysts offer to startups. If you’re a founder, investor, or anyone involved in the startup ecosystem, this episode will reveal why engaging with analysts early in your journey can be a game-changer.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

🎯 The Importance of Analyst Relations for Startups
Chris dives into the critical role that industry analysts play in the success of startups, especially in the B2B tech sector. Discover why analyst relations are more than just a marketing tool—they are a strategic asset that can help sharpen your product-market fit, accelerate your growth, and build your credibility in the market.

🕒 When and How to Engage Analysts
Many startups assume they need to wait until they have traction or revenue to engage with analysts. Chris dispels this myth and explains why engaging analysts early—during beta or even at the MVP stage—can offer significant benefits, from valuable feedback to strategic insights that guide your development.

💡 Strategic Benefits of Early Analyst Engagement
Learn how early engagement with analysts can boost your startup’s visibility, attract investors, and even help you make better product and market decisions. Chris shares real-life examples of startups that successfully leveraged analyst relations to drive exponential growth and secure funding.

👥 Why You Need a Specialist for Analyst Relations
Chris explains the role of specialist Analyst Relations (AR) professionals in effectively managing these interactions. He highlights why AR specialists outperform PR or marketing agencies in navigating the complexities of analyst engagement, helping your startup make a lasting impression.

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Dive into the world of fintech with Startuprad.io as we bring you an exclusive interview with Maximilian Rofagha, CEO of Finimize. Hosted by Jörn "Joe" Menninger, this episode unravels the journey of Finimize from a WordPress blog to a global financial content powerhouse that engages nearly 2 million investors worldwide.

Maximilian Rofagha shares his insights on building a thriving investment community without relying on paid marketing, a feat few startups achieve. Learn how Finimize delivers financial content solutions for enterprises, utilizing over a billion data points annually to create engaging and relevant content in 29 languages. This episode is a treasure trove of information for entrepreneurs, investors, and anyone interested in the fintech space.

We also explore the strategic acquisition of Finimize by Aberdeen, discussing the mutual benefits and the factors to consider when evaluating acquisition offers. Maximilian offers a candid look at the challenges of scaling a fintech startup, the role of community in business growth, and the current trends in the investment climate.

If you're looking for actionable advice on scaling a business, building a community, or navigating the complexities of fintech, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to hear from one of the most innovative minds in fintech today.

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Welcome to Startup News Roundup: December 2024 Highlights & Key Insights, where we dive deep into the vibrant world of startups across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. This episode delivers a comprehensive look at the latest developments, highlighting the most impactful stories, trends, and investments shaping the startup landscape.

What’s Inside?

• Top News Stories:

  • Black Forest Lab's Billion-Dollar Valuation: Discover how this Karlsruhe-based AI innovator is revolutionizing the global tech scene.

  • Upvest’s €100 Million Investment Round: Learn why this fintech powerhouse is Germany's largest funding success story in 2024.

  • Wefox's Resilience: Insights into the Berlin-based insurtech’s survival strategy amid challenging market conditions.

• Emerging Trends:

  • The rise of green tech startups with groundbreaking solutions like carbon-to-bioplastics conversion.

  • The continued growth of AI-driven enterprises and their pivotal role in transforming Europe’s economic landscape.

  • Pan-European startup initiatives fostering cross-border innovation and regulatory harmonization.

• Funding and Investments:

  • A total of €2.5 billion in new funding raised across the region this month, including major contributions from Northvolt and focused energy startups.

  • New VC funds worth over €1 billion, setting the stage for continued innovation in 2025.

• Regional Spotlights:

  • Germany: Success stories from Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt startups paving the way for the next unicorns.

  • Austria: Rising stars like Wood_Space securing 8-figure investments for sustainable building solutions.

  • Switzerland: Groundbreaking biotech partnerships, including a $300 million agreement by Cimeio.

Exclusive Insights:

Hear from Jörn “Joe” Menninger and Christian “Chris” Fahrenbach as they analyze the biggest stories and provide expert commentary on what these developments mean for entrepreneurs, investors, and the broader startup ecosystem.

Resources:

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Welcome to the Summer 2024 Startup News Wrap-Up from Startuprad.io! In this special Labor Day episode, we cover the most crucial updates from the vibrant startup ecosystems in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or tech enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights into the latest trends, funding rounds, and ecosystem developments shaping the future of innovation in the DACH region.

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🔍 Episode Highlights:

• Helsing’s €450M Series C Funding: Munich-based defense AI startup Helsing has soared to a €4.9B valuation with its recent funding. Discover how this positions Helsing as a leader in European security tech and what it means for the future of AI in defense.

• Lilium’s Strategic Dilemma: Explore the challenges faced by air taxi pioneer Lilium, including uncertainties over state aid that could lead to a sale and relocation. Learn how this could impact air mobility and the German startup scene.

• Grover’s €50M Funding Amid Market Challenges: Berlin-based tech rental company Grover raised €50M as it navigates economic headwinds. Find out how Grover is pivoting toward sustainable growth and what this means for the tech rental industry.

• CatalYm & osapiens: We discuss CatalYm’s €150M Series D funding for cancer immunotherapy and osapiens' €110M investment to expand its global ESG platform. These stories highlight the growing investor confidence in Europe’s deep-tech and biotech sectors.

• ECB’s Digital Euro Progress Report: Get updated on the European Central Bank’s first report on the digital euro, marking a significant step in developing Europe’s central bank digital currency (CBDC).

🇩🇪🇦🇹🇨🇭 Local Startup News:

• Germany: The AI startup sector in Germany is booming, with a 35% increase in 2024. We explore the opportunities and challenges in this thriving industry.

• Austria: Vienna-based HR tech startup Speedinvest Heroes (HROs) has filed for bankruptcy, highlighting the challenges in Austria's HR tech sector.

• Switzerland: Swiss startups raised CHF 1.1B in H1 2024, with biotech leading the charge. Despite a 9.5% decline, early-stage investments in AI and energy are showing strong growth.

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Executive Summary

In this episode of Startuprad.io, host Jörn "Joe" Menninger interviews Maximilian Wühr, the CEO of FINN Auto. Maximilian shares his motivation for starting Finn, which stemmed from a frustrating car-buying experience in the San Francisco/Bay Area. He discusses the fundraising process and emphasizes the importance of being persistent and solving a problem. Maximilian also highlights the differences between the US and German markets, particularly in terms of product-market fit and logistics. He shares his journey from finance to startups and discusses the advisory board experience. Maximilian concludes by sharing his vision for Finn's future, including the possibility of going public.

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The Founder

Maximilian Wühr, CEO and Co-Founder of FINN Auto began his journey in economics with the aspiration of becoming a financial investor. In pursuit of the best education, he recognized Bocconi as one of Europe's top finance universities and decided that studying there would be a valuable experience. Despite the lack of an existing partnership between LMU and any Italian university, Maximilian was determined to study in Milan. Taking matters into his own hands, he navigated the process of organizing the exchange and securing a scholarship that covered his expenses.

For six months, Maximilian immersed himself in the Italian culture, enjoying both the university and the unique approach to teaching economics, which relied less on numbers and data. His time in Milan not only broadened his academic horizons but also gave him a newfound appreciation for the vibrant city. He later attended CDTM the Center for Digital and Technology Management, which also took him to UC Berkeley with their exchange program. In California, he bought a car, which turned out to be a not-so-pleasant experience. This gave him the trigger to join the founding of FINN Auto.

Today, as the CEO of FINN Auto, Maximilian leverages the skills and knowledge he acquired during his studies and exchange program. His passion for finance and his experiences in Italy continue to shape his leadership style and drive him toward success in the automotive industry. Maximilian became CEO when his predecessor had to step down from the position.

The Startup

Finn Auto, the startup co-founded by Maximilian Wühr, has made significant strides in revolutionizing the car-subscription industry. They have successfully raised multiple rounds of funding, including a recent funding round that secured several millions of dollars. In total, they raised close to one billion US$ (935 M). This financial backing has allowed Finn Auto to expand its operations and continue to enhance its innovative platform.

What sets Finn Auto apart from its competition is its focus on providing a seamless and user-friendly experience. Their platform streamlines the entire process, alleviating the pain points that individuals often encounter when renting or purchasing a vehicle. By leveraging the power of technology and data, Finn Auto offers personalized recommendations, transparent...

Welcome to our summer 2023 wrap-up with vital news from the startup scenes in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland in around 30 minutes sometimes less 🙂.

This time we wrap up July and August. We came up with the summer news because the September news has always been very long, overcrowded, and covered 3 months. That was a bit too much of a break and too much news in one piece. So we looked to wrap up summer and since the US is an important market and Labor Day is the unofficial end of summer it seems like a good fit.

This summer has been a bit different and there has been a lot of news, so we focus more on the most recent ones and we have cut a lot of news here.

For everybody in the US who celebrates it: Happy Labor Day!

Find all links to the quoted news on our Medium blog: https://medium.com/startuprad-io/this-month-in-german-swiss-and-austrian-gsa-startups-summer-2023-july-august-episode-fdb709d89fbd

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Our Highlights:

Binance has not - yet - gotten permission to operate in Germany from BaFin, Nextwind raises 750 m US$, Bitpanda surpasses 1 M customers in Germany and Germany sets a new record in new founders. We also shared that SAP wants to invest in Aleph Alpha, they confirmed this and two more.

Germany's law for legalizing cannabis falls short of the expectations of cannabis entrepreneurs. Europe dominates climate fintech funding and the overall fintech funding shows a sign of life. Bafin also stopped mini VC investments - trashing the business model of some fintechs - AND we found newly closed VC funds in excess of 2.8 bn US$ that are open to European founders.

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Top News 

Du kommst hier ned rein 🙂 Is the usual saying in Frankfurt if a Bouncer won't let you in a Club

Fintech blog Finance Forward reports German finance oversight BaFin signals no license for Binance for Germany. So they can neither advertise nor expand in Germany. To be clear, this is not a final NO, but rather a "Binance keeps trying, but BaFin signaled a No"

750 M US$ for Wind Energy

Wind Energy in Germany: StartUp Nextwind raises 750 M US$ Venture Capital investors include Sandbrook Capital, Canadian funds Public Sector Pension Investment Board (PSP Investments), and Imco

Bitpanda - The Austrian Unicorn

Surpasses 1 million customers in Germany alone https://buff.ly/44mMyKP it is not sure how many of them are really active, but that is always a tough question, even for the startups. But the question is important since one only makes money with active users.

Germany Sets a New Record in Founders

Despite the current economic situation, Germany has the highest share of founders in 24 years!!! According to the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor Germany had a larger than 9% founder quota, meaning people from 18–64 who (co) founded a new business within the last 3,5 years (Young...

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Executive Summary

In this episode of Startuprad.io, host Joe Menninger interviews Max Koziolek, co-founder of Spectrm. They discuss the importance of making strategic decisions and pivoting in business, sharing insights from Spectrm's journey. They explore the challenges of seed-stage investments, the benefits of messaging apps for brands, and the impact of AI technology in their industry. Max shares his experiences in politics and media, highlighting the need for quality content distribution. The episode also delves into Spectrm's successful pivot to targeting brands and their impressive growth from pre-seed to series B, acquiring as pivoted startup clients like Zalando, UberEats, Premier Leauge, HelloFresh, Deichman, Breitling or Ford.

The Founder

Max, the guest on this episode of Startuprad.io, is a co-founder of Spectrm, a company that leverages AI-powered messaging to help brands connect with their customers more effectively. With a background in law and politics, Fabian brings a unique perspective to the startup world. He shares his experience of campaigning for public office, competing against Frank Walter Steinmeier. At the time the reigning foreign minister of Germany, now Germany’s president. He also shares his story of pivoting his company and the challenges they faced in finding their niche in the market, that was large enough to survive and how to communicate this to their investors. Fabian's determination and strategic thinking allowed Spectrm to not only survive but thrive, securing partnerships with major publishers and leading brands. His passion for AI technology and its potential for the future is evident in his vision for Spectrm's continued growth and success.

The Startup

Spectrm (https://spectrm.io/), is a Potsdam - Berlin Area-based startup, co-founded by Max Koziolek. It has made significant strides in the field of AI-powered messaging for brands. The company has successfully raised multiple rounds of funding, starting from a pre-seed stage all the way to a series B round. This demonstrates the confidence investors have in Spectrm's innovative approach and their potential for growth.

What sets Spectrm apart is not only their ability to help brands effectively engage, but also to pivot. They started out as a tool for sharing great journalism and realized that their market was not big enough. We take the journey with them to evaluate new options, and communicate the pivot to their investors and how to get them to agree.

Max also shares his experience with their customers by leveraging messaging apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, and more. With a specific focus on solving the problem of reaching audiences, Spectrm's platform enables brands to have meaningful conversations with their customers, ultimately driving conversions and revenue. Their impressive client portfolio includes renowned publishers such as CNN, Financial Times, and Business Insider, highlighting the trust and confidence their...

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Executive Summary

In this episode of Startuprad.io, our guest is Florian Brokamp, CEO and Co-Founder of Thinksurance. Brokamp discusses the positive economic state of the company, the importance of smart investors analyzing macroeconomic trends, and the growing industries of AI and insurtech. He emphasizes the stability of the insurance industry and the need for digitalization. He shares insights on their fundraising journey and the different parts of their company's offerings. Florian also highlights the importance of proper risk valuation, data transparency, and providing value to distributors, customers, and insurers. Overall, Thinksurance's vision is to connect insurance carriers, distributors, and customers through its technology platform.

Questions Discussed in this Interview:

How did Thinksurance navigate the fundraising process and secure funding for their business?

What were some of the challenges Thinksurance faced during the fundraising process, and how did they overcome them?

How does Thinksurance differentiate itself in the B2B commercial insurance space in Germany?

How does Thinksurance use data to address the lack of transparency in the insurance industry?

What is the importance of properly pricing risks in the insurance industry, according to Thinksurance?

How does Thinksurance define their target user and how do they cater to the needs of different types of users?

How has Thinksurance's market coverage and relevance increased through onboarding large associations and brokers?

How does Thinksurance aim to streamline the consultation process and provide value to distributors, customers, and insurers?

What is Thinksurance's approach to hiring and maintaining a strong company culture?

How does Thinksurance plan to further penetrate sales channels and collaborate with partners to address their digitalization needs?

The Founder

In this episode, our guest is Florian, the CEO and Co-Founder of Thinksurance, an insurtech startup from Frankfurt, focused on revolutionizing the commercial insurance industry through their technology platform. Throughout the episode, Florian shares insights into the economic landscape, the challenges of fundraising, and the growth potential of industries like AI and insurtech. He highlights the importance of finding investors who believe in the long-term vision and emphasizes the need to update legacy systems in the insurance industry.

The Startup

Thinksurance is a German insurtech company that provides digital insurance solutions for businesses and brokers. As mentioned by Florian Brokamp, the CEO and Co-Founder of Thinksurance, the company focuses on updating the legacy systems of the insurance industry, enabling a seamless and efficient consultation process between customers, insurers, and brokers. They offer a comprehensive suite of services including core consultation, Consult Direct service, and a data suite that collects and analyzes market data, providing transparency

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Executive Summary

In this episode, our guest Kimmo discusses the concept and potential of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) in part two of our series. We highlight the need for government control of the monetary system and the risks posed by private currencies. We explore various use cases and mechanisms that can encourage the adoption and success of CBDCs, including simplifying cross-border transactions and optimizing liquidity. We also dive into the idea of purpose-bound money and the importance of simplicity and convenience in utilizing CBDCs. As always we emphasize the role of entrepreneurs in developing new use cases and analyzing consumer behavior to drive CBDC adoption. Analytical approaches and network analysis play a crucial role in this process.

The Potential of Programmable Money: “I think these new use cases and thinking about new use cases of programmable money, for example, is definitely something that I think there’ll be loads of different opportunities for companies to start to provide new ideas, new services to people.” — Kimmo Soramäki

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The Importance of CBDC for Financial Stability: “But the crypto showed that, hey. Actually, you can run this in a distributed multi multi-asset international environment relatively smoothly. So I think that was an enabler for the conversation.” — Kimmo Soramäki

Three Key Developments in CBDC in The Last Year

We had our last update with Kimmo almost a year ago and since there have been three important developments:

1) CBDC does not have to be on blockchain anymore, the discussion has shifted to other cryptographic means.

2) The conversation has also shifted to tokenization for bank deposits and inter-bank lending for Central Bank Digital Currencies

3) CBDCs have been launched in other countries, especially in China. We do not see a large-scale adoption there yet, since there is a real use case missing.

Central Bank Digital Currencies: “In many countries, the driver has, of course, also been, like, in the Euro system or in China, the sovereign control of money. So if you think of emperors, they always wanted to put their heads on the coins. So, like, that’s been a goal of the government or an objective for a long time to have control of the monetary system.”

 — Kimmo Soramäki

Questions Discussed In This Interview:

How successful do you think the speaker's experiment of living a cashless life has been so far?

Do you believe that Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) will become widely adopted in the future? Why or why not?

What are some potential advantages of using CBDCs over traditional payment methods like cash or credit cards?

How do you think purpose-bound money could simplify consumers' lives and improve payment processes?

What are some potential use cases for CBDCs that have not yet been explored by entrepreneurs in the fintech industry?

How can CBDCs help drive financial inclusion, especially in countries with large unbanked populations?

What role do you think consumer behavior and payment networks play in the adoption of CBDCs?

How might the integration of distributed ledger technology (DLT) or other cryptographic methods impact the success of CBDCs?

What are some potential challenges that central banks and governments may face in implementing CBDCs?

How can network analysis and modeling of consumer behavior help guide the successful adoption of CBDCs?

The Future of Central Bank Digital Currency:

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Management Summary 

In this episode, our guest is Fabian Peltzl, co-founder of KNOWRON. He is here to discuss the importance of augmenting blue-collar workers in the software industry, which is primarily focused on white-collar workers. KNOWRON aims to bridge this gap by providing generative AI technology to assist service organizations and technicians. They emphasize the underdeveloped software space for blue-collar workers and highlight the potential market size including large industries like logistics, machine building, engineering, and services. The team shares their experiences working with European languages and their plans for expansion. They also discuss the transformative power of NLP advancements and their mission to revolutionize enterprise search and customer support and what the co-founders learned during their studies at Stanford and MIT.

Key Topics Covered

- The need for augmenting blue-collar workers in the software industry

- Underdeveloped software space for blue-collar workers compared to white-collar workers

- Potential market size with 80% of the global population being blue-collar

- Current focus on scaling and product development

- Targeting service organizations and encouraging them to reach out

- Use of transformers systems in the background

- Sales technicians' problems with limited access to information and inadequate documentation

- Advantage of having knowledge of AI systems

- Importance of data collection for AI systems

- Focus on mechanical data and document processing

- Satisfaction with starting work before technology transformation

- Speaker's background in studying NLP networks and transformers at Stanford

- Work experience with manufacturing companies in supporting the blue-collar workforce

- Working with manufacturing companies, particularly in mechanical engineering and semiconductors

- Reference client ASMPT and their decision to sell the company's product to their own customers

- Mission to support collaboration across industries

- Belief in the potential of AI to revolutionize enterprise search and customer support

- Personal assistant to help with simple questions and guide users through tasks

- Focus on doing things differently than traditional startup advice

- Targeting hidden champions - manufacturers with global service operations

- Importance of multilingual capabilities for international success

The Founder

Fabian is one of the co-founders of KNOWRON, a revolutionary company in the software industry. With a passion for supporting blue-collar workers in the manufacturing sector, Fabian has embarked on a mission to bridge the gap between white-collar and blue-collar software solutions. Drawing upon his experience working for manufacturing companies like KUKA and Ostrom, Fabian has a deep understanding of the challenges faced by service organizations and technicians in accessing and documenting crucial information. His dedication to improving collaboration across industries has propelled KNOWRON to international success, and his multilingual capabilities have played a vital role in expanding the company's reach to global service operations. As a member of an international team, Fabian's diverse background and expertise contribute to the ongoing development of KNOWRON's cutting-edge product.

The Startup

KNOWRON (https://www.knowron.com/) is a groundbreaking startup that is pioneering the utilization of generative AI and NLP technologies to support the blue-collar workforce in the software industry. With a focus on sectors such as manufacturing...

Welcome to our June 2023 wrap-up with vital news from the startup scenes in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland in 30 minutes or less 🙂.

We follow our top-down structure in the news.

Welcome to our startup news wrap-up for June 2023 by Startuprad.io with Chris from New York and Joe from Frankfurt. We recorded this news episode on June 27th, 2023. All news not yet included here will be published in our next news episode. Find all links to the quoted news on our Medium blog link below.

Note: We will now go into the summertime: In July and August we will only publish content every other week AND the next startups news will be our summer wrap-up, to be published on September 4th, in the US celebrated as Labor Day.

Our Highlights:

1 Komma 5, a Greentech startup, becomes a unicorn after only 23 months. We are wondering if this is the rise of climate tech startups already? Switzerland has a record funding with Teylor of 275 m €. GetYourGuide shows travel tech is back in favor of VCs with 194 m US$ funding. Germany and Intel agree on subsidies and investments for a new mega chip factory worth more than 30 bn Euros. Fernride, a pioneer of autonomous electric trucks, gets a 30 M US$+ Series A funding.

Let’s talk startups:

Top News 

The Rise of Climate Tech Startups Has Begun, So It Seems

Hamburg’s 1KOMMA5° has raised €430 million — and just become a unicorn at just 23 months old

Related: 1KOMMA5 buys danish solar company Viasol

Related: 430 mn debt funding

A Record Funding for Switzerland

Swiss-based SME lending fintech Teylor raises 275 m Euro, gaining Barclays as a new investor. Other investors include M&G Investments …

Traveltech Startups Seem to Be Back

GetYourGuide raises $194 million to fuel curated travel experiences and global expansion

30 bn For a New Chip Factory

Intel, Germany strike record €30B deal for chip mega-factory

Do You Know Fernride?

FERNRIDE a German pioneer of autonomous, electric trucks, raises 31 M USD in Series A funding

Find all Links and Show Notes here

https://medium.com/startuprad-io/this-month-in-german-swiss-and-austrian-gsa-startups-june-2023-episode-388-960515c65b87

Startups, Venture Capital, Unicorn, New Unicorn, Europe, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Scaleups, Tech News, Venture Capital News, Startup News,

Mentioned in this episode:

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Executive Summary

On this episode of Startuprad.io, host Jörn “Joe” Menninger interviews guest Daniel Alfon on how to optimize your LinkedIn profile to generate leads for your startup. They discuss the importance of having a professional-looking profile photo, creating engaging educational content, and utilizing the “Featured” section and Experience section to showcase your work and personality. The speaker emphasizes storytelling as a crucial factor in creating a compelling user profile and suggests turning on creator mode on social media platforms to enable followers and add hashtags. They also recommend checking the privacy settings on your profile photo and customizing your banner to enhance your company’s online presence. Tune in to discover practical tips for effectively marketing your startup on LinkedIn.

The Importance of Individual Profiles: “Don’t neglect your individual profiles. And one of the most common mistakes is that customer facing executive the VP, marketing, the co founders, the CTO, the Vprnd their profile will often be under optimized.”

— Daniel Alfon

Questions Discussed

1. What are the key takeaways from the episode in terms of optimizing one’s LinkedIn profile?

2. How does early engagement on important posts improve visibility on LinkedIn?

3. What is the value of evergreen content in generating leads for startups?

4. How important is storytelling in creating a compelling user profile for a startup?

5. What are the advantages of turning on creator mode on social media platforms, and how can it benefit startups?

6. Why is having a professional-looking profile photo that is visible to everyone important on LinkedIn?

7. What is the “Featured” section on LinkedIn, and how can it be used to enhance one’s profile?

8. How can startups effectively promote educational content on LinkedIn?

9. How do you strike a balance between promoting your own brand on LinkedIn and connecting with potential clients or investors?

10. Why is it important to have at least two active administrators for a LinkedIn company page?

Maximizing Your Company’s LinkedIn Presence: “Engagement early on can give that post a lot of extra exposure.”

— Daniel Alfon

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Creating Evergreen Content: “Yes, there is some type of content that’s evergreen, so you could have content that will generate leads for you years down the road.”

— Daniel Alfon

It Ain’t Bragging If It Is True

On the day of the publication of this interview, we also discovered that we have cracked the Global Top 100 Technology Podcast Charts, of analytics company Chartable. Thank you very much to all our listeners who made this possible!

Learn more and share it on LinkedIn with the post of our founder:

Joern Menninger on LinkedIn: #podcastshow #podcast #thankyou #technology #gratitude #startup...

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Executive Summary

In this episode of Startuprad.io, Joe Menninger interviews Philip Jonitz, co-founder of Klink Finance, who talks about his company's mission to encourage the mass adoption of cryptocurrencies. Offering an easy-to-use investment wallet with an interest-generating-like feature, Klink combines gamification into personal finance by providing liquidity to different players in the crypto space and generating random prizes for its users. Jonitz also speaks about the impact of regulation and institutional adoption on the crypto image problem and shares his experiences and lessons learned from investing in cryptocurrencies. They are also planning to set up a decentralized insurance company. Tune in to learn more ….

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Main Themes Discussed

1. Crypto Image Problem: regulation, institutional adoption

2. Crypto Investing: diversification, multiple wallets/exchanges

3. Clink Finance: gamification, easy entry to crypto markets

4. Price-Linked Savings: incentivizing holding assets, gamification

5. Crypto Insurance: a decentralized, new type of insurance.

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The Founder

Philip is a fintech entrepreneur with a passion for innovation and solving problems with technology. He has extensive experience in the fintech space, venture capitalism, and working with accelerators. Philip noticed the lack of gamification in the personal finance space and decided to explore the possibility of incorporating gamification to make personal finance more engaging and accessible for consumers. In 2016/17, Philip got involved with the crypto space, initially attracted to the potential of becoming wealthy quickly. However, he ended up losing most of his funds due to his lack of education about the market. This experience has taught him to be wiser about crypto investing and motivated him to build his own crypto project, Clink. Through Clink, Philip aims to provide an easy entry into the crypto markets by generating interest in users' deposited funds and incorporating gamification to incentivize users to hold onto their assets. He hopes to make investing in cryptocurrency more accessible and understandable for everyone.

The Startup

Klink Finance is a company that aims to bring gamification to the world of personal finance and accelerate the adoption of cryptocurrencies. The company provides an easy-to-use wallet application that allows users to invest and earn interest on their deposited funds. Klink Finance generates interest on the users' funds by providing liquidity to other players in the crypto space through decentralized lending and tokenized treasury bills. The interest generated powers prices paid back to users and insurance for the jackpot prize. The company plans to expand and offer additional currencies with prices powered through staking, where users can provide liquidity to validate transactions and earn interest.

Klink Wants to Start a Decentralized Insurance Company

Klink Finance is also pioneering a new type of crypto insurance space with decentralized ways of generating and selecting winners fully on chain, ensuring the jackpot prize. Overall, their vision and innovative solutions have the potential to change the way people perceive and invest in personal finance.

All Links and Show Notes

Here is our blog post:

Welcome to our May 2023 wrap-up with important news from the startup scenes in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland in 30 minutes or less 🙂.

We follow our top-down structure in the news: First, the top news, then we look with a bird's eye view at the startup ecosystem in the German language countries, dig deeper by looking at exciting startup cities and end with general news. And for those serious about startups, there is even a collection called: "Stay Ahead of the Curve," where we share in-depth reads, articles, studies, and podcasts.

Our next news episode will be published on June 29th, and then we are - for the news - in summer break.

Our Highlights:

Germany is now officially in a recession, but one with barely any unemployment. Also, we still track many startups going out of business, BUT the overall picture is improving. The German VC and PE Barometer - which captures the mood of many German investors - is showing an uptick. This shows especially in the massive amount of new funds raised; they promise a bright future for startups! We tracked at least 3,4 bn Euros of newly raised funds, which will be invested entirely or partially in startups in Europe and GSA. Look at our medium blog; we have more information on what the investors are looking for and how to pitch them. We also have investments and exits worth at least 5,4 bn Euros and news in this episode, including WeFox, Tier Mobility, Infarm, Blinkist, Bitpanda, Aleph Alpha, Sono Motors, and many more.

Let's talk startups:

Find all links and the other news here: https://medium.com/startuprad-io/this-month-in-german-swiss-and-austrian-gsa-startups-may-2023-episode-385-87fd564d483a

Tune in to our 24/7 Tech Entrepreneurship Internet Radio Station here:

www.startup.radio

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Our Enablers

This recording is supported by HTAI and the Enterprise Europe Network Hessen

Look for our dedicated sub-podcast in partnership with them: Tech Startups Germany on our https://linktr.ee/startupradio

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Top News

Deal or No Deal?

Getir is in talks to take over German grocery app rival Flink | Financial Times

But then: Flink's sale to Getir fell through. Now Flink is raising 150 M € from investors, including grocery giant Rewe and Doordash

Tier Mobility to Merge with Competitor

European e-scooter giant Tier Mobility maps route to merger

Will Infarm Be Soon Outfarm?

Infarm keeps shrinking and is leaving Europe, reports Handelsblatt. The greenhouse startup reportedly has only 80 employees in Europe left and will get an investment at an unknown valuation for their relocation - likely to the Middle East with low energy prices

Blinkist Makes a Large Exit!

Berlin-based startup Blinkist is sold to Australian education startup Go1 for an undisclosed amount, reported to be "hundreds of millions." Blinkist offers short wrap-ups of nonfiction books as text or audio

Large Drops in Valuations are Not Only for the Small Companies

Bitpanda

Executive Summary

Are you looking to create an innovative startup hub? Learn how Munich became a global center for deep tech and find out what your city can do to create its own thriving ecosystem with UnternehmerTUM in the center. This is part two of a series within our Sub-Podcast European Startup Pulse with DEEP Ecosystems. In part one we saw Odense in Denmark, becoming a global powerhouse in robotics, spanning from the success of just one company. Tune in to learn more

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First Episode: How to Build a Global Startup Hub (1/2) | Startuprad.io

https://medium.com/startuprad-io/how-to-build-a-startup-hub-101-european-startup-pulse-d1a024393935

About the Pulse of the European Startup Ecosystem

The European startup scene is changing fast. There are new players, old ones fading away, and even more to come in their place- all vying for a piece of this growing pie! To avoid getting left behind, you need regular updates on what's going on so that our entrepreneurs can stay one step ahead when building or investing in companies here. That's why we started the "Pulse of the European Startup Ecosystem" which will provide you with quarterly podcasts chronicling different aspects related to startup activity across European Hubs, supported by the data from the specialized analytics company DEEP Ecosystems.

Example Munich, Germany

Here one of the centerpieces of the success of Munich is the institution of UnternehmerTUM, part of Technical University Munich (TU München or TUM) which trained entrepreneurs from its own students but also has programs for all interested. The hub in Munich focused on deep tech and it really blossomed when deep tech became sexy.

Also, many large companies do have a large presence in Munich, training capable employees, managers, entrepreneurs, investors, and engineers including, but not limited to Google (with a development center), IBM (Watson Center), Apple, Cisco Systems, HP, Intel, McAffee, Amazon Web Services, Airbus, Adobe, Microsoft, Nokia Solutions and Networks, NTT Data, Oracle, T-Systems, VMware, Attos Systems, Siemens, BMW, Check24, EOS, Epcos, Fujitsu Technology Solutions, Infineon, MTU, Scout24, Telefonica Germany, Travian Games, and Osram just to name a few.

Interviews with Companies Mentioned:

UnternehmerTUM

https://youtu.be/1oi-2d2zqPc

ProGlove

https://youtu.be/dE76h-bKTH0

Find all links and show notes here: https://medium.com/startuprad-io/how-to-build-a-global-startup-hub-101-2-2-european-startup-pulse-fb9b49d38c9c

#startup #entrepreneurship #entrepreneurship #europe #startuphub #hub #hubs #startupradio #venturecapital #startegy #scaleup #deeptech #technology #techstartups #technologycompany #tech #startupstory #munich #germany

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Executive Summary

In this episode, Joe interviews Lukas, co-founder of Minds Medical, and Ingo, senior partner of SYNPULSE. The story follows the pivot of Minds Medical from a healthcare-focused AI startup serving hospitals to its services for fintech/insurtech companies during the COVID-19 pandemic. They also discuss the challenges of extracting structured data from unstructured medical documents and the potential applications of this technology in the insurance industry. The conversation highlights the joint offering of intelligent document processing for the insurance industry and the acquisition process between the two companies.

When Corona hit, all hospitals stopped picking up the phone. So we had to focus all our energy on the insurance product.

Lukas Naab, Founder Minds Medical

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With SYNPULSE8 we are now building a product for the global insurance market.

Lukas Naab, Founder Minds Medical

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Our Enabler HTAI and the Enterprise Europe Network Hessen 

This recording was made possible by HTAI and the Enterprise Europe Network Hessen. These organizations have made tremendous contributions to helping startup businesses succeed and thrive, providing a range of services from helping to find grants to ongoing partnerships. By taking advantage of these resources, startup companies can network and develop innovative strategies for success on the international stage. The dedicated support of HTAI and the Enterprise Europe Network Hessen is paramount in providing startup businesses with the tools for lasting success. Learn more here: https://www.htai.de/ and https://www.een-hessen.de/ 

We discovered for example that one large hospital in Germany has more than 200 different forms just to discharge patients. [And there are more than 1.800 different hospitals in Germany]. This amount of unstructured data requires machine learning and AI to be useful.

Lukas Naab, Founder Minds Medical

The Founder

Lukas is the founder and CEO of Frankfurt-based AI startup Minds Medical. Since the acquisition of Minds Medical he is in the new company the principal product owner for SYNPULSE8. During the outbreak of corona, hospitals had many other things to do and just stopped picking up the phone, all at the same time. So Minds Medical had to focus completely on their insurance product. They eventually decided to join forces with SYNPULSE since they already had a joint offering for disability insurance providers.

The Startup

Minds Medical was acquired by SYNPULSE, now known as

Executive Summary

Learn how to acquire competitive advantages in your eCommerce ventures with a buy & build strategy, unlock potential growth and add new capabilities: In this episode, Joe, interviews Peter, the founder of an AI startup called Pythia. Peter discusses his company’s buy-and-build strategy for acquiring e-commerce startups, which involves integrating them into their standardized processes and assigning brand managers or CEOs to oversee them. He also talks about the challenges facing companies in the current market, including rising prices, tighter financing, and more restrictive customers. Peter’s company is looking for profitable e-commerce companies with solid earnings and adjusted earnings, and they plan to continue buying until late 2027, with the goal of reaching €80 million in revenue and €20 million in profit. 

There has been a kind of Bermuda triangle created by external forces for e-commerce companies recently. Financing becomes more expensive, inflation increases production prices and consumers are more restrictive with their purchases

Peter Hart — Founder and CEO DIPQ and Pythia

Happy Father’s Day

At the day of the publication of this interview, we celebrate in Germany Father’s Day. In Germany, the day is always celebrated on a Thursday, Ascension Day, also a public holiday in Germany, which gives fathers time to celebrate.

Happy Father’s Day!

Note: Mother’s Day is always celebrated on the second Sunday in May in Germany, where we do not publish, so no Mother’s Day episodes exist. Sorry to all mothers, and belated happy Mother’s Day as well! 

Over the last 12 months, we looked at the demand for consumer products and made a buy or build decision, which always ended up to be a buying decision, due to the lower multiples.

Peter Hart — Founder and CEO DIPQ and Pythia

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This recording is supported by HTAI and the Enterprise Europe Network Hessen: https://www.een-hessen.de/

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We usually look at Shopify stores. If they are not, we move them over time to Shopify.

Peter Hart — Founder and CEO DIPQ and Pythia

The Founder

Peter Hart is a young and exceptional entrepreneur. He appeared in Germany’s version of Shark Tank and got a deal for 200.000 Euros as a 25-year-old. Currently, he is not even 35 and already runs 12 brands simultaneously. You can learn more about how he achieves this in the Starting Y interview in the links on the blog post.

He started with a body aftershave brand called Dr. Severin and then went on to develop the software he used to forecast consumer trend tools into the AI startup Pythia. With this, he built and bought several consumer brands and now logically continues this approach by buying up profitable e-commerce shops with Dipq (no website).

Currently there are not many investors active. For all of our acquisitions we have been the

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Executive Summary

The Startuprad.io podcast and YouTube blog covers the German-speaking startup scene and in this episode, Joe interviews Paulina Jänsch, co-founding partner at Leanox Impact Capital. Paulina discusses her seven-step approach to evaluating startups and fundraising as storytelling, emphasizing the importance of a financial model that reflects the startup's value drivers. She also talks about Leanox Impact Capital's investment criteria, which focus on impact innovation and solving environmental or social problems. The company invests in early-stage startups in Europe, with a focus on industry-agnostic but always impact-driven ventures, and prioritizes investing in female founders and LPs.

EU Startups Summit

This interview was recorded outside of the EU Startups Summit 2023 on April 20th in Barcelona. Thank you EU Startups for the great event.

The Founding Partner

Paulina is one of two founding partners at Leanox Impact Capital and a TOP 100 most influential women in the European VC and startup space. She holds a Bachelor of Science from Maastricht University School of Business and Economics and a Master of Science from Erasmus Universiteit Rotterdam, as well as a Master of Science from EADA Business School. She also spent time in Singapore (Nanyang) for an exchange semester.

Paulin also worked at EY Analytics, immostore, and participated in the CFA Research Challenge by Caixa Bank. Amongst being GP at Leanox, she is also invested as Business Angel in nine companies.

The Investor

Leanox.eu is looking to raise a new fund with not only 50% female (co)founded startups, but also 50% female LPs. Leanox is also looking for parity in itself, they have 50/50 GPs in Leanox. The VC is motivated to disrupt inequalities, to tackle social and environmental issues as an opportunity to improve the world we all live in.

Find the email to pitch Leanox in our blog post (link below).

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Blog Post and Show Notes:

Find all links and show notes here: https://medium.com/startuprad-io/the-seven-step-approach-to-evaluating-startups-a-storytelling-perspective-episode-382-a0cec4da3cb8

Chapters:

00:00:00 Intro

00:00:20 Sponsoring Message by ExpressVPN

00:01:04 Paulina Jänsch - Co-Founding Partner at Leanox Impact Capital

00:01:50 Paulina’s Seven-Step Approach to Valuation Impact Startups

00:09:30 How to Pitch Leanox - Investing in Impact Innovation

#techstartups #germany #startupinvesting #femalefounders #femaleentrepreneur #femaleinvestor #startupinvesting #impactinvesting #startup #startups #startupradio #entrepreneurship

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I was working in a startup in Shanghai, so I had my first real startup job in China.

Kilian Kaminski, Founder refurbed

Executive Summary

Learn about how refurbed, an innovative startup, could be the next Austrian unicorn. Learn more about their goal of providing pre-owned gadgets & tech at reasonable prices! Refurbed originally started as a marketplace where large companies can sell their refurbished electronics so that they don’t need to throw them away, think laptops and cell phones that are replaced. Now they offer a much wider range of products, from hand-picked refurbishers. Learn more in our interview.

Our goal is to be everywhere in Europe, as a mid-term strategy. Maybe also global in the future.

Kilian Kaminski, Founder refurbed

EU Startups Summit

This interview was recorded outside of the EU Startups Summit 2023 on April 20th in Barcelona. Thank you EU Startups for the great event.

The Founder

Kilian is the founder of Vienna, Austria-based soonicorn refurbed. A soonicorn is a startup, that is expected to become a unicorn soon. He is also a Forbes 30 under 30 and from Germany one of Capital’s 40 under 40. Kilian is originally from Hamburg but has been working in Brisbane, Australia as a marketing and brand manager in Germany and at a startup in Shanghai, China. He even got to meet Pink and Jennifer Lopez during their tours in Australia. After all those positions he joined Amazon as a key account manager and program lead for their certified refurbished marketplace in Germany. Leaving this position to found his marketplace for refurbished electronics in Austria, called refurbed. Kilian is one of three founders of refurbed.

The Startup

Refurbed originally started as a marketplace where large companies can sell their refurbished electronics so that they don’t need to throw them away, think laptops and cell phones that are replaced. The company does not refurbish the devices, but they hand-pick the refurbishers on the platform. On average only two components are replaced during the refurbishment process. The marketplace originally was started for cell phones and notebooks, but now offers a much wider range of products, e.g. household electronics like a Thermomix, tablets, or smartwatches. Now even original producers are selling refurbished products on the platform.

Our goal is to be profitable at the end of the year [2023], which looks quite promising now. So we don’t need external investors, but we are open to talk.

Kilian Kaminski, Founder refurbed

Venture Capital Funding

Refurbed is funded with more than 70 m US$, at the time of the interview, with backing from 20 investors including Kreos Capital, Alpha Associates, Seven Ventures, Hermes GPE, C4 Ventures, Expon Capital, Bonsai Partners, Evli Growth Partners, All Iron Ventures. They raised their first funding round in August 2017 and their most recent Series B funding in August 2021. The company is open to talk to new investors.

All Links and Show Notes

Here is our blog post:

Welcome to our April 2023 wrap-up with important news from the startup scenes in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland in 30 minutes or less 🙂.

Our Highlights:

Considerable funding made headlines last month. We have more than 600 M euros in funding in our highlights alone. A potential large exit: Software AG, the Darmstadt-based listed software company, is close to a 2.4 bn US$ exit with an offer from Silverlake Partners. Also, Berlin-based Blinkist may be close to a 200 M € exit. Hundreds of millions of raised funds were announced by Enpal (via ABS), Isar Aerospace, IntegrityNext, Razor Group, and Tado. Also, SAP is close to investing in Germany’s hottest AI startup Aleph Alpha from Heidelberg. Diverging picture in Airtaxi space: Lilium is looking for new investors; Volocopter builds the taxis and expects them to fly in less than 500 days at the Paris Olympics.

Let’s talk startups:

Top News

Software AG Close to a Multi-Billion Acquisition

Private-equity firm Silver Lake Partners, based in Menlo Park, is close to buying Germany’s Software AG in $2.42 billion deal. The offer is already public, reported Reuters. Shares of listed Software AG jumped 53% at the announcement. The investor already knows the company: In February 2022, Silver Lake had invested 344 million euros in the software developer’s convertible bond, which upon conversion would represent nearly 9% of issued Software AG shares.

Enpal Raises More Than 300 M€

Enpal raises up to €356 million via Securitization of Solar Receivables with first German residential solar ABS. ABS are asset-backed securities, that means if Enpal can not pay interest or pay back the final sum, the investors have the collateral (assets) backing the security

Blinkist Close to 200 M € Exit

Reports blog Deutsche-Startups, with an offer from an — yet unnamed — American company. The blog, with its founder Alexander Hüsing is usually pretty well informed and has been right before.

Isar Aerospace Closes €155 Million Funding

Isar Aerospace closes €155 million Series C funding round, ignition sequence start, all engine running. Investors are 7-Industries Holding, Bayern Kapital via its Scale Up Fund Bavaria, Earlybird Venture Capital, HV Capital, Lakestar, Lombard Odier Investment Managers, Porsche Automobil Holding SE (Porsche SE), UVC Partners, and Vsquared Ventures

100 m € for IntegrityNext

The company has been bootstrapped for seven years, but now IntegrityNext takes €100 million from EQT Growth fund.

Razor Group Raises 88 M US$

Berlin-based Razor Group, an e-commerce aggregator, closes Series C at $88M at $1.2B valuation, acquires Stryze to consolidate.

Tado Raises Money, As IPO Plans Falter

Smart thermostat startup Tado wanted to IPO but then came Corona and Ukraine. They originally wanted to explore a sale or IPO after their 2021 fundraising, but the SPAC deal faltered and they needed to adapt. So they raised 46.9 M US$. Their existing investors already include Siemens, Amazon, and EON.

SAP To Invest In AI Startup Aleph Alpha

German press reports that the software giant SAP is about to invest in German ChatGPT competitor Aleph Alpha, which also claims to have eliminated fake news from its software. As yet, the valuation and investment are not known.

Related: Heidelberg-based startup, a competitor of ChatGPT, claims to have eliminated fake news from its tool Luminous

Airtaxi Lilium is Looking for New Money, and Volocopter is Planning to Fly

Airtaxi Lilium: 0 Euro revenue, 253 mn € losses. They are looking for new investors. Volocopter on the other hand, wants to start operating their drones as taxis ASAP. They also pledged to operate their air taxis in Paris, during the Olympic Games, in less than 500 days.

Related: Volocopter starts production — founders magazin

All...

Executive Summary

Get exclusive insights into the latest patent filings of GSA/DACH startups. Discover where they’re going and what impact they may have on your business. QuantIP is an analytics company that offers data and analytics on patent data and, for us, went through 460 categories and more than 16.000 patent filings. With their tools, we get you an exclusive insight into the patent filings of 2022. Tune in to learn more about the industries and areas startups are filing patents in.

Patent databases are the best man-made databases that ever existed. … a collection of all potential economically viable technical information, collected over the last 200 years.

Lucas von Reuss, CEO and co-founder QuantIP

The Founder

Lucas is the CEO and co-founder of QuantIP. He held multiple positions, including in journalism, before co-founding the startup. His positions include editor-in-chief at €uro, a magazine for sophisticated private and professional investors (a German equivalent of Barron’s Finance and Investing News). He also held positions with Axel Springer Financial Media before. He was always working around investing and asset management. He holds degrees from Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU), Axel Springer School for Journalism, and an MBA from Stockholm School of Economics.

Part of the success of a company can be forecasted with their patent and patent filings. There are a lot of other important factors, depending on the industry, but for many future industries patents play a big role.

Lucas von Reuss, CEO and co-founder QuantIP

The Startup

QuantIP is a Munich-based big data startup, exclusively focused on patent analytics. The startup is already closing in on breaking even in the next 6–12 months.

QuantIP currently offers three products.

• Data feeds tailored to the needs of systematic and quantitative equity investors.
• Thematic search tailored to themed-driven asset managers, e.g., deal sourcing.
• The pre-produced company reports on companies, available via platforms like capital iq from S&P, or AlphaSense

Patents are a very hard read. The main purpose of the filing entity is to protect their IP in a way that no one can really figure out how to reproduce it.

Lucas von Reuss, CEO and co-founder QuantIP

Exclusive Data

QuantIP went deep into its database with more than 16.000 patents and dug through to find the 2022 filings from startup companies in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Large companies file many patents, and there are somewhere between two and three million every year. This report defines startups as companies that filed their first patent before 2018. They also have only 3–9 inventions (an invention is a novel idea, and the patent is only the protection of it so that an invention can be patented in several markets).

For 2022 we look at almost 8.000 patent filings from a bit over 1.500 startups for GSA/DACH:

https://medium.com/startuprad-io/where-are-gsa-startups-heading-insight-from-recent-patent-filings-with-quantip-exclusive-data-6b059d561480

Mentioned in this episode:

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Executive Summary

Learn how CreditShelf, a leading German fintech company, secured 100 million euros of investment from Goldman Sachs and what that means for businesses seeking credit.

CreditShelf recently received 100 mn € from Goldman Sachs to lend out via their platform; Goldman joins other investors like the European Investment Fund. The fintech works with Raisin Bank to get SMEs loans within four weeks. They IPOed already in 2018 in Frankfurt as the first pure-play fintech in Germany.

The Founder

Daniel is a returning guest. We interviewed CrediShelf shortly after their IPO in 2018 (link below). Daniel holds an MBA from the University of Mannheim and a Ph.D. from the University of Düsseldorf. He has experience s a management consultant from Kienbaum and Bain & Company. He has also been an executive director for Swiss banking giant UBS for eight years in their investment bank (Fixed Income, Currencies and Commodities (FICC)) in Zürich and Singapore. He is one of the three co-founders of CreditShelf, which was set up in 2016, and currently acting as the CFO of the company.

The Startup

CreditShelf is a credit platform connecting institutional investors and German Mittelstand (German small and medium enterprises). They provide corporate loans using a licensed bank (Raisin Bank). The loans work as a fast stand-alone solution (can be paid out within 4 weeks) or part of a more significant credit, involving other parties and banks. The company has successfully developed an online credit marketplace platform whose processes are supported by proprietary, data-driven risk analysis software. On their platform, they offer loans for companies located in Germany from 100.000 € to 5 M €, stretching up to 5 years for supplies, scale-up, real estate, and M&A. The CreditShelf platform models the entire credit process, from the loan application through credit analysis and risk management to loan disbursement and servicing.

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Keep Up to Date

Here is our publication calendar: https://calendar.google.com/calendar/embed?src=012i27ak525qi3smgjl8v9tbio%40group.calendar.google.com&ctz=Europe%2FBerlin

All Links and Show Notes

Here is our blog post: https://medium.com/startuprad-io/this-fintech-got-100-mn-from-goldman-sachs-to-invest-creditshelf-782d9f2223b7

Chapters:

00:00:00 Intro

00:01:50 Daniel Bartsch, CFO - Former Management Consultant and Investment Banker

00:03:16 The Company - CreditShelf

00:13:42 Loan Demand in Germany Outstripping Supply

00:23:44 CreditShelf’s Outlook on the Economy in 2023

00:25:18 Hessen and Frankfurt as Startup Hub

#startupradio #startup #startups #fintech #fintechfinance #fintechstartups #fintechstartup #frankfurt #germany #credit #sme #lending #lendingcompany #credit #venturecapital #technology #techstartup #techstartups #joemenninger

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Executive Summary

Learn the secrets of how to create an effective startup ecosystem with Thomas' insights from DEEP Ecosystems. Discover what made Odense, Denmark such a successful start-up hub, and find out more in our blog post. This interview is part one of a series of two videos, where we discuss Munich in part two. There is much more to learn in the presentation we link to in our blog.

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About the Pulse of the European Startup Ecosystem

The European startup scene is changing fast. There are new players, old ones fading away, and even more to come in their place- all vying for a piece of this growing pie! To avoid getting left behind, you need regular updates on what's going on so that our entrepreneurs can stay one step ahead when building or investing in companies here. That's why we started the "Pulse of the European Startup Ecosystem" which will provide you with quarterly podcasts chronicling different aspects related to startup activity across European Hubs, supported by the data from the specialized analytics company DEEP Ecosystems.

The Boulder Thesis

One of the starting points of DEEP Ecosystems is The Boulder Thesis. It was poropesed by Brad Feld (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brad_Feld). He formulated it as a basis to explain the success of the local Boulder, CO startup community.

Entrepreneurs must lead the startup community

The leaders must have a long-term commitment

The startup community must include anyone who wants to participate in it

The startup community must have continual activities that engage in the entire entrepreneurial stack

Example Odense, Denmark

Odense is with around 200.000 people only the 4th largest city in Denmark, but still managed to become a hub for Robotics companies and raised more than 860 mn € since 2015. It is world-class in robotics, raising 2020 alone 50 mn € for companies in this cluster. Companies located there include Universal Robots, Cabinplant, senmatic, MiR, ODICO, Shape Robotics, purple robotics, SCAPE, and many more. It all started out with Universal Robots founded in 2005 and exited in 2015. The three founders decided to invest in robotics startups locally. This cluster is a public-private partnership. Over time they had seven exits and three IPOs, very impressive for such a small town. They currently have 292 companies in robotics or related to it with 3,74 bn € annual revenues.

Find the full show notes and download the full presentation via our blog post here:

https://medium.com/startuprad-io/how-to-build-a-startup-hub-101-european-startup-pulse-d1a024393935

#startup #startups #hub #startuphub #london #berlin #paris #denmark #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #entrepreneurs #innovation #stationf #sucess #sucesso #mindset #businessowner #business #techstartups #techstartup #germany #austria #switzerland #denmark #france

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Intro

Welcome to our March 2023 wrap-up with important news from the startup scenes in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland in 30 minutes or less 🙂.

We follow our top-down structure in the news: The top news, followed by a bird’s eye view at the startup ecosystem, next deeper looking at fascinating startup cities, and we end with general information. And for those serious about startups, there is a collection called: Stay ahead of the curve, where we share exciting reads, articles, studies, and podcasts.

Welcome to our startup news wrap-up for March with Chris from New York City and Joe from Frankfurt. We recorded this news episode on March 27th, 2023. A little disclaimer: You may have noticed a lot of stress in February here at Startuprad.io. We should have remembered a few news items in our backlog and added them to this episode.

All news not yet included here will be published in our next news episode for April, to be published on April 27th. Find all links to the quoted information on our Medium blog link below.

If you celebrate it: Happy Easter! We also try to bring you a bit of culture from Germany here.

Our Highlights:

Good news and bad news for Fintechs Raisin and N26. Raisin gets its unicorn status back and gets a lot of new business, so much in fact that the complaints at Bafin are mounting. N26 generated 200 mn € revenue in 2021 but has to deal with a senior employee uprising. Neobank Ruuky is saved last minute. Startup Bonify reportedly makes a 20 mn € exit, but employees only get invited to a barbeque. GoStudent is a no-go with courts, and the first Goldman-backed fintech in Germany struggles. Bavarian Airlines may be just a hoax, and Grover shows the first signs on their way to an IPO.

Let’s talk startups:

Tune in to our Internet Radio Station here:

www.startup.radio

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Our Enablers

This recording is supported by HTAI and the Enterprise Europe Network Hessen.

This recording was made possible by HTAI and the Enterprise Europe Network Hessen. These organizations have made tremendous contributions to helping startup businesses succeed and thrive, providing a range of services from helping to find grants to ongoing partnerships. By taking advantage of these resources, startup companies can network and develop innovative strategies for success on the international stage. The dedicated support of HTAI and the Enterprise Europe Network Hessen is paramount in providing startup businesses with the tools for lasting success. Look for our dedicated sub-podcast in partnership with them: Tech Startups Germany on our https://linktr.ee/startupradio

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Top News

Good News and Bad News at Raisin

The...

Executive Summary

Germany has adopted a startup strategy for the first time. One should pay attention if Europe's largest economy makes such a step. The ten bn € Future Fund and others are part of the program, which channels billions in investments to startups in Europe and especially Germany. Therefore, this episode has a special guest, the Commissioner for Startups and Digital Economy for Germany, Dr. Anna Christmann, a Bundestag (the German federal parliament ) member (MdB). We touch on some of the ten points of the strategy and their criticism. The money comes from the ten bn € startup program (aka Future Fund) we covered with her predecessor in June 2021 (YouTube: https://youtu.be/kZxoEUa_6Uk) during the Merkel government. We also brush the topics of the German Deep Tech and Climate Fund, worth one bn €, and the European Tech Champion Initiative, a fund of funds worth four bn €, and how they fit into the programs.

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The Commissioner for Startups and Digital Economy

Our special guest is the Commissioner for Startups and Digital Economy for Germany, Dr. Anna Christmann, a Bundestag (the German federal parliament) member. This video follows her predecessor's interview from June 2021, where we explored how Germany will spend ten bn € in the newly set up startup program (YouTube: https://youtu.be/kZxoEUa_6Uk). She is a Green Party (Die Grünen) member, one of the three parties forming Germany's coalition government under Chancellor Olaf Scholz.

The Startup Strategy

In broad terms, the strategy has 10 points in our show notes, links to further readings, and the full policy document in English. (Link below).

1. Strengthen financing for startups
2. Help startups to attract talent, including through improved employee ownership opportunities.
3. Develop a spirit of entrepreneurship and facilitate the setting up new digital businesses.
4. Strengthen female entrepreneurs and support diversity in startups
5. Facilitate startup spin-offs from science and universities
6. Improve the policy environment for startups that serve the common good
7. Mobilise startup competencies for public contracts
8. Make it easier for startups to access data
9. Strengthen regulatory sandboxes and facilitate access to them for startups
10. Put the focus on startups

Ten Billion Euro Future Fund

We already covered the ten bn € startup program (aka Future Fund) with the predecessor of Mrs. Christmann in June 2021. This fund is the source of money to be invested in different initiatives, some mentioned in the interview and shortly covered below (DTCF and ETCI). You can learn more in this interview here on YouTube https://youtu.be/kZxoEUa_6Uk.

Deep Tech and Climate Fund (DTCF)

The one bn € deep tech and climate fund is newly set up as part of the government program.

European Tech Champions Initiative (ETCI)

Germany also invests one bn € in the European Tech Champions Initiative. Five EU Member States launched the European Tech Champions Initiative (ETCI), a Fund of Funds that will channel much-needed late-stage growth capital to promising European innovators. At the time of the recording, four bn € have been committed to the initiative.

Links and Show...

Executive Summary

The European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF) is a venture capital fund consisting of both public and private investors. It focuses on driving the transformation to a bio-based, sustainable economy throughout Europe. This venture underlines the EU's commitment to its Green New Deal and sets higher standards for venture capital projects. Backed by venture capital, those companies funded must not only demonstrate economic growth potential but also uphold principles of environmental, social, and governance through their work. This fund stands as one part of a larger and definitive effort by the EU to become carbon neutral by 2050.

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The General Partner

Michael is one of the three founders and General Partners of the European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF). The German entrepreneur wrote and executed the business plan of High-Tech Gründerfonds (HTGF), the most active early-stage fund in Europe, investing in innovative technologies and business models since 2005. As the first managing director, he led HTGF until 2019. Michael has 25 years of experience in investment and management in the venture capital industry.

The ECBF

The European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF) is an impact investment fund. Initiated by the European Union, it contributes alongside others as a financial instrument to achieve the goals of the European Commission's (EC) EU Green Deal.

The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the main investor in the ECBF with EUR 100 million. Additional funds were invested by another public investor, NRW.BANK, as well as numerous private investors such as Nestlé, Neste, Corbion, BÜFA, Koehler Group, Volkswohlbund, Hettich, Invest NL, Telos, Heino, and more.

The fund invests the available capital of 300 Mio. euros in ambitious and visionary companies that advance the bio-economy and circular economy with innovative technologies or business models and thus have a sustainable impact on the European economy. The goal is to accelerate the growth of bio-economy companies and create pan-European, global players. The goal of generating a very high return on investment is directly linked to this and is on the same level as the impact goal.

The regional focus of the investments includes the EU-27 countries and the 16-Horizon2020 associated countries.

Current Portfolio

The current portfolio includes (amongst others) the following companies:

Peel Pioneers

ProLupin

Aphea.Bio

Nuritas

Elicit Plant

InOvo

Protix

Biosyntia

Trapview

Pitch the ECBF

ECBFs Vision is to build up a prosperous economy realigned with nature. To get there they aim to identify the most promising investment targets in the European Bioeconomy, with both good financial returns and a huge impact on the environment. Thus, ECBF is interested in connecting with entrepreneurs, investors, and business promotion stakeholders with robust business networks in the bioeconomy. Find all requirements...

Executive Summary

We are back with quarterly cooperation with DEEP Ecosystems research from Munich. Today we talk about a few highlights of their extensive 2022 report. Our current impression is that the VC market could start a new cycle from the lows of Q4 2022. We already see a new uptick in seed investments in Barcelona, London, Paris, Berlin, and Stockholm. Also, London is losing some of its edge as a European Startup Ecosystem compared to the other hubs. For VCs, the next hot sector to invest in Europe is cleantech. Despite the job cuts in 2022, at the year's end, there still have been more employees at startups across Europe than before Corona.

"The mood is down in the venture capital market. Startups definitely feel the crunch, but there is still dry powder available."

Thomas Kösters - DEEP Ecosystems

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About the Pulse of the European Startup Ecosystem

The European startup scene is changing fast. There are new players, old ones fading away, and even more to come in their place- all vying for a piece of this growing pie! To avoid getting left behind, you need regular updates on what’s going on so that our entrepreneurs can stay one step ahead when building or investing in companies here. That’s why we started the “Pulse of the European Startup Ecosystem” which will provide you with quarterly podcasts chronicling different aspects related to startup activity across European Hubs, supported by the data from the specialized analytics company DEEP Ecosystems.

"Berlin is the European Capital of Meetups. "

Thomas Kösters - DEEP Ecosystems

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Some Highlights

Startup funding took a hit on a European Level across the board regarding total investments, especially in Q4 2022. This matches what we have seen in our interview with kfw covering their VC and PE barometer.

On the excellent news site, there is a substantial uptick towards the end of the year 2022 in announced seed funding rounds. All large European Hubs, Barcelona, London, Paris, Berlin, and Stockholm, showed more seed funding rounds. Only Amsterdam did show a decline, which may be due to the available data.

Exits and large fundraisings have filled the coffers of VCs, who build up their teams during the good years. This leads to increasing pressure to invest on the VCs by their investors, called LPs (think insurance companies and pension funds).

Cleantech has also emerged as a new growth sector for VC investments - on a European level. In the last 6 months, compared to the last 3 years, cleantech investments have increased disproportionally.

Classic sectors for VC investments remained sexy in the 2nd half of 2022, including fintech, media, health, and AI & big data.

Hardware is also a sector - along with consumer apps - just on the edge of becoming a growth story for VC investments.

Despite the job cuts announced in recent weeks or months, there is still net positive job growth in the European Startup Ecosystem - compared to before corona....

Executive Summary

The kfw surveys each quarter around 450 investors for this barometer, so it is one of the broadest and most reliable indicators of the current mood of private market investors in Europe's largest economy. In this episode, we have Dr. Fritzi Köhler-Geib, the chief economist of kfw, as a guest. She introduces us to the barometer that has 3 main components: business climate, (current) business situation, and business expectations (for the next quarter). There are also 12 subcategories covering areas like fundraising, entry evaluations, exit opportunities, new investment, deal-flow quantity, deal-flow quality, and even the taxation framework. Tune in to learn more.

The Chief Economist

Dr. Friederike "Fitzi" Köhler-Geib is the chief economist (https://www.kfw.de/About-KfW/KfW-Research/KfW-Chief-Economist/Koehler-Geib-vita.html) of kfw. Dr. Köhler-Geib has studied at HEC in Paris, the University of Michigan in the US, the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland, and Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona in Spain. She is still a fan of Michigan's Wolverines by the way. She holds a Ph.D. in Economics from Ludwig Maximilian University Munich and Pompeu Fabra University. Before becoming the chief economist, she spent many years in Washington D.C., working for the international monetary fund and the world bank. She was at the world bank the lead economist for Central America and the Senior Economist for Latin America. In these functions, she also traveled quite frequently to Central and South America.

The kfw

kfw (https://www.kfw.de/kfw.de-2.html) is a wholly government-owned development bank, based in Frankfurt am Main. The bank has a public mandate to assist federal and state governments with administrating (mostly loan) programs.

According to the total size of its balance sheet, it was Germany's 3rd largest bank in 2018. The whole kfw group includes several specialized units, including kfw capital (https://www.kfw.de/microsites/Microsite/kfw-capital.de/en/) to promote innovation and growth, which also administrates multi-billion euros in VC investments, mostly as LP in other funds.

The Venture Capital and Private Equity Barometer

For the VC and PE index (https://www.kfw.de/About-KfW/Service/Download-Center/Konzernthemen/Research/Indikatoren/German-Private-Equity-Barometer/) the kfw research department surveys around 450 investors quarterly. They are members of Germany's PE and VC Association (https://www.bvkap.de/) and part of the Deutsche Börse Venture Network (https://www.venture-network.com/dbvn-en/) on many dimensions of their outlook for the next quarter and business in the last quarter.

Not all data is available on the website in English, but the index has now a history of more than 80 quarters.

The index has three main components and 12 subcategories. The main categories are business climate, (current) business situation, and business expectations (for the next quarter).

The subcategories cover areas like fundraising, entry evaluations, exit opportunities, new investment, deal-flow quantity, deal-flow quality, deal-flow innovativeness, taxation framework, write-downs, economy (overall), interest rates, and funding.

Find all blog posts with all the links on our blog https://medium.com/startuprad-io/the-only-venture-capital-data-for-germany-you-need-to-know-24aa5ac1e919

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Topics Discussed in this Interview

In this interview, we are talking about

#innovation #startup #startupstories #startupradio #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #business #motivation #success #entrepreneurlife #businessowner...

Welcome to our February 2023 wrap-up with the important news from the startup scenes in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland in 30 minutes or less 🙂.

We follow our top-down structure in the news: First the top news, then we look with a bird’s eye view at the startup ecosystem in the German language countries, dig deeper by looking at interesting startup cities and end with general news. And for those of you who are really serious about startups, there is even a collection called: Stay ahead of the curve where we share interesting reads, articles, studies, and podcasts.

Welcome to our startup news wrap-up for February 2023 by Startuprad.io with Chris from New York City and Joe from Frankfurt. We recorded this news episode on February 21st, 2023.

All news not yet included here will be published in our next news episode. Find all links to the quoted news on our Medium blog, link below.

Our Highlights:

Rising interest rates are leading to an interest rate war between the neobrokers. We covered the troubled company Windeln.de, which is now liquidated. Farewell! Moonfare extended it’s Series C funding to more than 130 m US$, but we are not sure who invested in the last batch, since a fund is mentioned, that was also founded by Moonfare’s founder. The City of Mainz goes live with its quest to become a world-class biotech hub. N26 was reportedly in advanced talks to buy dutch broker Bux, but buxed out shortly before the closing. AAAAAAnd, we like to end on a high note: Raising is in the process of reclaiming its unicorn status with new funding. We have also some event recommendations for you and discounts from 20% to 100% for the events listed in our show notes.

Let’s talk startups:

Our Enablers

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Top News

Neobrokers Just Started — What May Be An Interest Rate War (Chris)

After german unicorn Trade Republic had a smashing success with offering 2% interest for money deposited there now also fellow unicorn Scalable offers even 2,3%, BUT only from 100k € on and only if you are a subscriber (4.99/month) 

Farewell Windeln.de

We have often talked in our news about the precarious position of windeln.de. Now it is finally liquidated 

Who Extended Moonfare’s Series C?

Moonfare is a fintech from Germany, allows individuals to invest in Private Equity Funds, founded by former KKR Germany Head Steffen Pauls. They cap their Series C extension round at about $15M, bringing its Series C funding to $130 million+ the Berlin-based fintech allows HNWI, family offices, banks, and their advisor's access to top-tier private markets investments. BUT German business magazin Manager Magazin reports that for this extension the only investor mentioned by name is one that Mr. Pauls has co-founded.

You can find his profile at 7 Global Capital here on their website as Managing Partner and Founder.

City of Mainz Starts to Invest some of Their Billions in the BioTech Hub

You may remember that we told you the story of Mainz? A lovely city with a normal annual budget of 100 million Euros, the capital of one of Germany’s states. Since they are also the headquarters of BioNTech they got flooded with tax revenues as soon as the corona vaccine was rolled out. They showed more than 1 bn € profit as a city in 2021 alone and they want to invest the money to become a world-class biotech hub. Now the...

Executive Summary

Daniel has a vast experience as a banker with UBS, and Goldman Sachs, as well as a headhunter. His headhunting experience leads him to semi-automate the matching of startups and potential (advisory) board members at Board Owl. The startup is based in Zürich, Switzerland. The potential members are from Germany, Switzerland, the US, and the UK, as well as the Middle East and Africa, where there is no limitation of sector or seniority. The knowledge of potential members is also a very diverse background with a strong emphasis on tech. Their know-how ranges from fundraising, to team set-up, to former CTOs, former fashion industry executives, as well as former healthcare executives.

Investors will be very happy to see a high caliber of experienced people on your advisory board.

Daniel Aghdami, Co-Founder and CEO — Board Owl

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The Founder

Daniel is the CEO and co-founder of Zürich, Switzerland-based HR tech startup Board Owl. The startup helps other startups and companies to find suitable members for supervisory boards or advisory boards.

Daniel has past experience as an analyst with UBS, a technology analyst at Goldman Sacha, and several positions as a headhunter, including in Dubai. He also had a brief stint in structure products as well.

In 2010 he co-founded executive search company DART, where he realized that finding board members could be much less labor intensive and therefore cheaper for younger and smaller companies. This was the birth of Board Owl.

The Startup

Board Owl is a spin-off of Daniel’s executive search company. It enables matching companies looking for board members with potential board members.

The people available on the platform are from very diverse backgrounds, work experience, and very diverse geographies. Half of the potential board members are from either Germany or Switzerland. The rest is equally spread across the UK, the US, Asia, and the Middle East, as well as Africa. The platform works for all sectors.

Supervisory boards in Germany and Switzerland are required by law (given a certain size of a company and legal form). Companies from other countries are looking to fill positions on advisory boards e.g. for their network, know-how, or geographical knowledge.

Venture Capital Funding

Board Owl is currently raising a seed round. A Berlin-based VC fund will join this round. You can reach out to Daniel directly about the fundraising on LinkedIn or talk to us.

Consultants will get in and after the project is done get out. An advisory board stays with you for a longer period of time. Daniel Aghdami, Co-Founder and CEO — Board...

Executive Summary

Reverse.supply is a startup that offers second-hand shops for fashing brands, not only the technical shop but also the logistics behind it. We interview one of the three co-founders Konrad, the CTO, who has extensive experience from ImmobilienScout24, insurtech FRI:DAY, and Solarisbank. Reverse.supply is already working with companies like Globe Trotter, Armed Angels, and Bergzeit. Starting in 2024 there will be a legal requirement to take the clothing back, this is a massive opportunity for reverse.supply.

Right now are could sell more 2nd hand clothes, than we get. There is a big demand there.

Konrad Hosemann, CTO & Co-Founder reverse.supply

The Founder

Today we’re thrilled to have Konrad as our guest. He’s the co-founder and CTO of the recommerce startup reverse.supply, a company he formed to help bridge the gap between buyers and sellers of clothing, on behalf of brands. Previously, Konrad was Lead Developer at ImmobilienScout24, Head of Engineering at insurtech FRI:DAY, and Principal Developer at Solarisbank; his career is marked by long-standing success in the engineering sector. We can’t wait to discuss what Konrad has achieved thus far as the founder of reverse.supply!

The Startup

Reverse.supply (https://www.reverse.supply/) is not only a SaaS startup. The company runs a large logistic center in Berlin, where they accept delivery of clothing for their clients. There they grade the received items. They add it to the online shop of the fashion brand and store the 2nd hand items to be sold yet again. They do this for several companies. Their disclosed clients include Globetrotter, Armed Angels, Bergzeit, and many more.

Currently, many processes are manual and the startup is working on the automation and scalability of these processes.

Reverse.supply is the winner of the German EcoDesign Award category “Service”.

Venture Capital Funding

The company is open to talking to new investors. They are looking to further scale their operations, having already raised a business angel round, pre-seed funding, and seed funding. The investors include Capnamic, Dutch Founders Fund, and several business angels. Reach out to learn more.

They Are Hiring!

You can find the link to their careers page on our medium blog.

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All Links and Show Notes

Here is our blog post: https://medium.com/startuprad-io/reverse-supply-offers-fashion-brands-second-hand-shops-as-a-service-892d84ba1ecb

Topics Discussed in this Interview

In this interview, we are talking about

#Innovation #startup #startups #startupradio #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #business #motivation #success #entrepreneurship #mindset #goals #entrepreneurlife #lifestyle #businessowner #believe #positivevibes #branding #innovation #techstartups #secondhand #asaservice #startup #berlin #coder #cto #cofounder #circulareconomy #2ndhand #2ndhandclothing #fashion #clothes #logistics

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Executive Summary

Immer.App is a startup that has been chosen for the 2022 CONTENTshift accelerator, whose impressive and unique technology is set to revolutionize the way we read in the digital age. Through their development of an innovative mobile, tablet, and web-based reader experience, Immer.App are strongly positioned to impact both smartphone users and publishers alike. Although they have initially pivoted away from a consumer app to market their innovative reading technology, they are actively reaching out to producers of mobile apps, websites, and publishing companies who could significantly benefit from the use of their advanced system. Keep reading if you want to stay up-to-date with this exciting startup's journey!

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The Founder

Niels is an entrepreneur and writer. He even wrote in the past background material for video games and articles for newspapers and magazines. Since he is so passionate about reading, he works really hard to re-invent reading for tablets, e-readers, and smartphones.

The Startup

Immer had a proof-of-concept app in the Netherlands with 10.000 users. During its development since its founding in 2020, it pivoted away from a reading app to its solution making text easier to read and easier to understand. This in turn makes all reading apps and e-readers potential partners, instead of competitors.

Venture Capital Funding

Immer.App is currently funded in an angel round of 600.000 €. They are looking for a pre-seed round. Currently, they have many dutch investors and look for more international investors to get their feedback and input as well. On our blog, there is a link to their pitch deck.

Immer is Hiring!

Learn more on our blog post.

The CONTENTshift Accelerator

This interview is part of our continued partnership with the CONENTshift Accelerator, the accelerator of Germany's association of book publishers and book printers (Börsenverein des Deutschen Buchhandels). If you are interested in learning more you can visit their website here: https://www.contentshift.de/en/ or just have a look at all the winners since 2017 here in our playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6b0cn5X_xWE&list=PLUbiCAQc22Wu5mU4YqS7oWWEjqrdG1Kul&ab_channel=Startuprad.io

Blog Post with all Links

https://medium.com/startuprad-io/immer-app-reinvents-reading-for-the-digital-age-824c8ce91654

Topics Discussed in this Interview

In this interview, we are talking about

#innovation #startup #startupstories #startupradio #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #business #motivation #success #entrepreneurs #mindset #goals #entrepreneurlife #lifestyle #businessowner #believe #positivevibes #branding #innovation #techstartups

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Happy 2023, as well as a happy Chinese New Year of the Rabbit. 2023 Chris and Joe will again bring you startup news once a month (with a small summer break) wrapping up what was going on — and we found noteworthy — in the GSA / DACH startups scene.

Our Highlights:

WeFox is under fire for growing with acquisitions of insurance broker pools, BioNTech makes largest acquisition in its history, DeepL confirms unicorn status and snipes at Grammarly, Solarisbank in trouble with BaFin, Trade Republic has to disclose numbers and Sono Motors gets longer runway with EU money.

Let’s talk startups:

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Find all options to subscribe to our newsletter, podcast, YouTube channel or listen to our internet radio station here: https://linktr.ee/startupradio

Our Enablers

Invest-in-Hessen

This show was made possible by Hessen Trade and Invest with their brand Invest-in-Hessen. You can learn more about them here (https://www.invest-in-hessen.com/). We also run a dedicated sub-podcast with all interviews and news in cooperation with them. Look for Tech Startups Germany here: https://linktr.ee/startupradio

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Startup Raven

Top News

WeFox got some splaining to do 🙂

Extensive, but not favorable coverage of insurtech Wefox came out this month. The main complaints are that the growth is basically driven by acquiring existing pools of insurance brokers (not really what you would associate with an insurtech startup). They made that way 600 million Euros in revenue in 2022. But these pools do not get innovative systems from WeFox, or innovative insurance offers from them, they just keep working. Also, there has been no innovative product that really drove the growth at WeFox as an innovative unicorn

BioNTech makes the largest acquisition to date

BioNTech may be one of Germany’s most successful startup companies. We talked about it in our news before, the company alone is responsible for approximately half a percentage point of Germany’s GDP Growth in 2021 — Keep in mind that Germany is the 4th largest country in the world by nominal GDP.

Here is the new piece: Mainz-based pharma company BioNTech (famous for their corona vaccine) makes the largest acquisition in its history with UK-based AI startup Instadeep

Related: BioNTech’s founder on the future of mRNA technology

Cologne-based DeepL confirms unicorn status and snipes at Grammarly

DeepL takes aim at Grammarly with the launch of Write, to clean up your prose.

Related:

Cologne-based translation tool DeepL confirms unicorn valuation for their 2022 fundraising of 100 mn US$

Solarisbank joins N26 in Troubles with BaFin

Bafin is Germany’s bank oversight body (think FSA or SEC). They have already limited the number of customers N26 can acquire due to lapses in following regulations (especially AML), now Solarisbank is in too: “Solarisbank in Germany can now only get new partners (fintech clients) with permission of German finance oversight BaFin, due to continuing problems. BaFin also sends an “observer”

Trade Republic Updates

Trade Republic generates more than 1 bn Euros inflows of new client money with 2% interest rate offer and a lot of favorable press coverage.

Also, Trade Republic has to publish their numbers: There is a legal requirement in Germany to publish your balance sheet 12 months after your business...

Executive Summary

In this episode, we have the privilege to explore fintech and banking in 2023 alongside Paolo, Global Research Leader for Banking and Capital Markets for IBM. He offers his insight into fintech and banking twenty years from now. We examine the strategies important for capital markets, fintech, and banking and the forces shaping their future. Paolo shares with us that these players need to be cognizant of their strategy choices, as well as how different successful platforms will be in the future. Last but not least, he impresses how imperative it is to start reasonably preparing for quantum computing today. It is a must-listen episode that provides tremendous insight into fintech growth and innovation.

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The Expert

Paolo is a fintech entrepreneur and thought leader who stands out from the crowd. He has been at the forefront of innovation in banking and fintech for nearly two decades. He has served as an experienced banker and risk manager, having held senior positions in major firms. In 2008, he founded Capitecs, an innovative startup based in Frankfurt that would eventually be acquired by IBM in 2012. Since then, Sironi has continued to innovate and lead the global research efforts for the IBM consulting institute, particularly in banking, fintech, and capital markets. He has also released five bestselling books on various fintech-related topics that have further established him as an authority figure. Paolo Sironi serves as a testament to success resulting from fintech expertise gained through experience in traditional banking institutions.

His most recent one is "Banks and Fintech on Platform Economies: Contextual and Conscious Banking (The Wiley Finance Series)" you can buy it and learn more here: https://amzn.to/3XC3OIU (AL)

His other books are:

• FinTech Innovation: From Robo-Advisors to Goal-Based Investing and Gamification https://amzn.to/3IOHqrM (AL)
• MiFID II: Value-Generation for Investors https://amzn.to/3iFtQML (AL)
• Modern Portfolio Management: From Markowitz to Probabilistic Scenario Optimisation https://amzn.to/3iFtQML (AL)
• Financial Market Transparency: Essay on Financial Markets Theory https://amzn.to/3Wi7z5j (AL)
• 金融科技创新 (Fintech Innovation Mandarin Edition): https://amzn.to/3Wi7z5j (AL)

Thoughts To Ponder

Paolo, a fintech entrepreneur, banker, and thought leader in risk management, believes that banks are unable to compete on the level of volume needed to match that of tech giants. In order to stay competitive and provide value for their customers, fintech must set their sights on delivering superior service rather than chasing the same levels of scale. With his books and writing, Paolo has created a framework through which bankers and fintech entrepreneurs alike can better target value-based services in order to gain an...

Executive Summary

In this bonus episode of our expert interview series, Antonio Fatas, Professor of Economics at INSEAD, joins us to provide insights into the current situation with FTX. We've gathered a good deal of information about the collapse so far but there is still much that remains unknown. We delved into some of the known facts surrounding FTX and pondered together on what could happen in the future. It's clear from our discussion that FTX was not a regulated financial institution, and also had its own unique challenges. We'll be keeping an eye out for more developments related to FTX as time goes on to see what other lessons we can learn.

I do believe there are other places where entities are insolvent, we just have not seen it yet.

Antonio Fatas, Professor of Economics 

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FTX suffered from bad management and likely fraud as well

Antonio Fatas, Professor of Economics

Background

As crypto continues to grow into a new and important market, the digital asset industry has been rocked by the sudden collapse of one of its biggest crypto exchanges - FTX. Led by crypto personality Sam Bankman-Fried, FTX had previously been ranked as the world’s third-biggest crypto exchange in terms of trading volume, so its downfall came as quite a shock to crypto investors. This news is sure to cause ripples throughout the crypto industry for a long time, and it serves as another reminder that despite its rising popularity, crypto remains an unpredictable and high-risk gamble.

 Regulators may now have a different view on the risks and regulations of crypto.

Antonio Fatas, Professor of Economics

This event echoed Mt Gox’s downfall although the underlying problem was quite different. Unlike Mt. Gox which fell victim to hack, FTX merely could not keep up with the sudden demand for withdrawals caused by investors who were losing faith in the platform. The resulting effect sent FTT, their native token, tumbling and kicked off a domino effect causing customers to rush out of the exchange and further crippling its ability to sustain itself, leading inevitably to its demise.

I find it very revealing that these tokens that are supposed to work with high inflation, because the central banks are all crazy but this is the way to hold on to your purchasing power. Now that we have inflation, they are collapsing. That to me is a really red flag.

Antonio Fatas, Professor of Economics

Bitcoin crashed, Ethereum crashed, and almost every other major token did the same. Then Binance stepped in, with the world’s number one exchange announcing it would buy FTX and ensure everyone gets repaid. But just as soon as the market settled, Binance announced a U-turn, saying the situation at FTX was beyond recovery. 

The implications from the complase of FTX will be felt for crypto for the coming years in more an thougher regulations. That is why we will follow the story. We start with a discussion of the situation with our guest. Professor Fatas.

The Expert

Antonio is an influential professor of economics with an impressive set of credentials. With a Ph.D. in Economics from Harvard University and a research fellowship at the Centre...

Management Summary

Welcome to a Startuprad.io tradition, airing on December 25th. A review of the most important events in Fintech from the perspective of our guests for the 8th year in a row right now. The most important development in the fintech world was for most guests the FTX collapse. During the recordings agreed that fintech investments have seen a peak — there will be a valley behind it, but there will be new investment records achieved after the expected recession. As next hot topics emerged embedded finance and crypto. Not all crypto will be hot again, only with a sustainable business model, there is a future according to our guests. Actually, some guests welcomed a shakeout of the market — albeit it should not have been that violent and long.

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Introduction to our Fintech Review

For years Startuprad.io makes an annual fintech review, where practitioners, investors, and fintech folks get to wrap up their year. The focus is on GSA, but it seems to be more and more the case that markets get more interconnected and trends follow each other in much shorter time spans. It is also a tradition that we publish it on December 25th. 

Keep in mind that since the first fintech review the field has changed and broadened a lot! Really a lot. Where it used to be only payment apps, now there are fintechs in insurance, crypto, proptech, banking, SME banking, capital markets, and much much more. So we thought we would invite guests from a diverse range of backgrounds to give you their perspective on the time of corona, the year 2022, and the outlook for next year.

Our guest this year:

• Meeri Savolainen, CEO and Co-Founder of Insurtech INZMO
• Luca Frignani, CEO and Co-Founder of Credit Platform Exaloan
• Henrik Gebbing, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Crypto Custody Bank Finoa
• Frank Schwab, Co-Founder of the Fintech Forum and multiple supervisory board member

Our questions to the guests:

• What was the most important development in the fintech world in 2022?
• Do you think fintech has peaked in terms of investments — as some data suggests?
• What is the next hot topic in fintech? Is crypto making a comeback or are we all focusing on API tools for embedding finance functions?
• If you have one: What was the most interesting fintech development for you during corona?
• If you have one: What was the most important piece of news in 2022?

Thank you very much for your valuable time and insights. We wish you much success in 2023 and happy holidays!

Blog Post With Links and Show Notes

https://medium.com/startuprad-io/fintech-review-germany-switzerland-and-austria-gsa-2022-97b12122e34b

#startup #germany #austria #switzerland #fintechreview #startupradio #entrepreneur #entrepreneurship #investing #venturecapital #crypto #embedded #custody

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Learn more at https://www.younium.com/

Younium is the Subscription Management Hub for B2B SaaS Companies. Whether you’re looking to expand to new markets, experimenting with pricing models, or simply want a streamlined quote to cash process - Younium got your back. On top of that, Younium Insights provides the SaaS metrics you need for reporting to the board and for future company valuation. It gives you the key figures needed to drive your business forward and take strategic decisions. Learn more at https://www.younium.com/

Welcome to This Month in German, Swiss, and Austrian (GSA) Startups, our startup news wrap-up for December 2022 by Startuprad.io with Chris from New York City and Joe from Frankfurt. We recorded this news episode on December 19th, 2022. Keep in mind, this news episode covers everything since our last news episode.

As always: All news not yet included here will be published in our next news episode, which will be January 2023, the first news for 2023. Guys, another year is over! Find all links to the quoted news on our Medium blog, link below

Our Highlights:

Enpal makes huge fundraising in the current environment, more than 800 mn €. Sennder doubles its valuation in the next funding round to 2 bn US$ and has already 60 mn commitments. The funding environment may be bleak, but investors announced new funds for VC and PE investments worth 3.1 bn US$ targeting startups and scaleups in GSA or Europe. One blog asks if the time of Rocket Internet is over, Matter Labs raises 200 mn, a big heist drives a startup into insolvency and Getir buys Gorillas for 1,2 bn US$, a far cry from Gorillas' former 3 bn US$ valuation.

Let's talk startups:

Top News 

Enpal Fundraising

Enpal could double its valuation in the new funding round. Berlin-based unicorn Enpal closes €855 million in debt funding to accelerate the adoption of solar energy.

Sennder Raises New Funds At Double Valuation

Digital forwarder unicorn Sennder is raising new money, at a  2 bn US$ valuation. According to the report, they already have  60m commitments.

Fundraising For VCs Went Quite Well - More Than 3.1 bn Euros Worth of New Investment Funds Have Been Closed

The largest is EQT Ventures. It has Money if your startup needs it: EQT Ventures III closes Europe's largest venture capital fund committed to early-stage tech startups. The money will go to early-stage startups in Europe and North America. For more funds, wait for our later section with new fund announcements.

A service for our audience: Learn more and send in pitches here: https://eqtgroup.com/current-portfolio/funds/eqt-ventures-iii 

Has Rocket Internet Already Seen Its Best Years?

"Mucho trouble over at Rocket Internet," wrote Robin Wauters in his readworthy newsletter for Tech.eu. The article asks if their era is over. Staff cuts and investment stop point in that direction.

Startup Brand Ranking

Jung von Matt publishes their annual  GERMAN STARTUP BRAND RANKING

Some of the top 50 startup brands are known from our news: About You, Flink, Numa Group, getquin, Vivid, Flaschenpost, Tier Mobility, Zolar, Enpal, Sono Motors, Trade Republic

Matter Labs raises 200 mn US$

Matter Labs, the Berlin, Germany-based developer of zkSync, a solution that reduces the cost of Ethereum transactions, raised $200M in Series C funding https://buff.ly/3UorChp

Not Oceans Eleven, But Still BIG

Berlin-based luxury watch marketplace Watchmaster was one of the largest marketplaces of its kind. After a spectacular robbery where 10 m € worth of watches have been stolen the company has to file for insolvency https://buff.ly/3Fi3qsG 

Getir Buys Gorillas And It Is Not Going Well For the Gorillas Founder

First, this kind of news appeared: Getir will take over Gorillas soon - according to press reports. The negotiations have been dragging on for some time now.

Then, we got the confirmation: Getir acquires German competitor Gorillas in $1.2 billion deal - where Gorillas was once valued at 3 bn...

Executive Summary

9am.works is a startup platform explicitly designed for freelancers. Founded by Marc, a serial entrepreneur formerly with Team Europe Ventures and the founder of Sommelier Prive, Huus, code control, and 9am.works. The platform makes it easy for freelancers to find jobs, invoice clients, and get paid quickly and securely — most for free! It also helps companies work with freelancers, from searching and hiring to payment processing. Bootstrapped since its launch in 2016, 9am.works is transforming how freelance work is being done.

We take a lot of the pain points from companies that work with many freelancers.

Marc Clemens, Founder and CEO 9am.works

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We worked with a law firm to build a compliance hub for working with freelancers.

Marc Clemens, Founder and CEO 9am.works

Executive Summary

9am.works is a startup platform explicitly designed for freelancers. Founded by Marc, a serial entrepreneur formerly with Team Europe Ventures and the founder of Sommelier Prive, Huus, code control, and 9am.works. The platform makes it easy for freelancers to find jobs, invoice clients, and get paid quickly and securely - most for free! It also helps companies work with freelancers, from searching and hiring to payment processing. Bootstrapped since its launch in 2016, 9am.works is transforming how freelance work is being done.

The Founder

Marc is originally from Schwaben (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swabia), an area rich in entrepreneurial culture and home to some of the most iconic German companies, like Bosch and Benz. The Würth family is also from this same region, famous for their products related to screws, nails, and other construction items. He chose to pursue higher education abroad by studying at St. Gallen in Switzerland, UC San Diego, and later HEC in Paris. This exposure helped equip him with the skills needed to be a successful startup founder - something he has since become known for. His roots may have provided him with an initial spark of inspiration, but Marc's hard work has allowed him to carve out his own place in the business world.

A serial entrepreneur, he has a wealth of experience not only with Team Europe Ventures (now team global, founded by Lukasz Gadowski https://teamglobal.net/) and also in founding his own startups. Unfortunately, his venture Sommieler Prive did not succeed, leading to a period of tiredness and burnout. Thankfully, this entrepreneur is sharing his learnings from this experience in interviews to help others avoid the pitfalls of a similar situation. His advice provides powerful insights into how to navigate entrepreneurism without suffering excessively from burnout.

After this, he was freelancing for some time. This leads him to the idea of Code Control (which he still runs), a community for IT freelancers. This again developed into the idea of 9am.works, for all freelancers, not only for IT talent.

In between, he co-founded with his wife the HUUS soundproof phone booths startup (you may have seen them in a coworking space before) https://en.huus.io/.

The Startup

If you are a freelancer in need of assistance with the various steps of working with a company, 9am.works is the perfect platform for you! They provide sales solutions, and project management services free of charge for all freelancers and offer to work along any other steps needed for...

Executive Summary

Jochen Engert won the German Startup Award 2022 as German Entrepreneur of the Year. He is the co-founder of Munich-based Flix a unicorn recently valued at 3 bn US$ and the owner of Greyhound Lines. He shares in this interview his entrepreneurial journey, and his experience in winning 90% of the local long-distance bus market in less than a decade, without owning even one bus. We talk about the rough times during COVID when the service was shut down for 8 weeks, their expansion into different countries, acquisitions, and investments. He also shares some experience from his business angel investments.

“We are getting to profitability pretty soon”

Jochen Engert Co-Founder Flix

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“Our families, even our girlfriends thought we were crazy leaving our consulting jobs to start this ‘bus thing’.”

Jochen Engert Co-Founder Flix

German Startup Awards 2022

This interview is in media partnership with the German startup association (Bundesverband Deutscher Startups https://deutschestartups.org/). Their German Startup Awards #GSA22 honor each year outstanding female and male founders and investors in special categories. You can learn more about the winners in our interviews and on this website: https://germanstartupawards.de/rueckblick/rueckblick-2022

You can also have a look at our history, we also interviewed many winners of the German Startup Awards 2021 already.

“Our initial hypothesis was that you need one central player to orchestrate in order to put up a national network.”

Jochen Engert Co-Founder Flix

The Founder

Our guest today is Jochen, the Supervisory Board Director (formerly CEO) and Co-Founder of Munich-based mobility unicorn startup Flix (formerly Flixbus). Jochen studied at the University of Ottawa, Canada, as well as at Stuttgart University and in Koblenz at WHU. He has also been a consultant at Boston Consulting Group for 5 years, prior to starting Flix.

“If you want to be a founder, you are always on sales, to clients, investors, and also people you want to hire”

Jochen Engert Co-Founder Flix

The trigger of Flix was the 2009 coalition government contract, where the ruling parties stated they wanted to de-regulate the bus service in Germany, for the first time permitting long-distance buses. Before the de-regulation there was a law in force forbidding long-distance bus connections, competing with train service. So they founded GoBus, later re-branded to FlixBus, then to Flix.

“ … for all operational complex businesses: Operational excellence, passion for detail and laser focus on customer centricity and ultimately customer technology … that is something that compounds, …. Building ultimately a competitive advantage, that is very hard to impossible to replicate ”

Jochen Engert Co-Founder Flix

The Startup

Flix started as GoBus, later FlixBus (https://global.flixbus.com/). Today they operate FlixBus, FlixTrain, FlixCar, Kâmil Koç in Turkey, and Greyhound Lines in...

Executive Summary

UniApp is an ed-tech startup from Germany, that helps international students to prepare for their study abroad and helps in the application process, both on their platform. They help students to find the right place to study for undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as online-only programs. Their portfolio includes now universities and colleges in 27 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, Switzerland, Singapore, and Canada. The tool also works as a CRM for universities and colleges to streamline their international applicants.

“We bootstrapped in less than 2 months to more than 20.000 users”

Fahed Jaarah, Founder and CEO UniApp

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“We created a search engine for education that is not manipulated by ads.”

Fahed Jaarah, Founder and CEO UniApp

The Founder

Our guest today, founder and CEO of UniApp Fahed, brings a wealth of experience in entrepreneurship to the table. Having studied at universities across Europe (Cologne, Paris, Buckinghamshire outside of London), he has worked on various projects with notable organizations such as private rating agencies and investment advisers a small investment boutique. After 3 years working within this sector, he decided to take his newfound knowledge and apply it to the world of ed-tech by founding UniApp — creating a modern platform to support students during the process of looking for study abroad by matching students with mentors at universities around the world. With his expertise in launching successful businesses aiding college and university students, Fahed is quickly becoming a prominent figure in the international education community.

The Startup

UniApp (https://uni-app.com/), started out as Udrus.com and was initially designed to enable Arabic-speaking students to study abroad. However, the team soon expanded its vision to provide study-abroad opportunities for international students from all over the world, under the new name of UniApp. Using a unique application process that takes into account 600+ data points for each individual student, UniApp has become a leader in ed-tech by making the complex college application process easier and smoother for its users. With a platform that eliminates language barriers, UniApp is paving the way for study abroad programs around the globe. By focusing on the needs of the study seeker and their future potential, UniApp is playing a huge role in making study abroad accessible to everyone — whether it's internationally or from within their own region. UniApp also can match you with institutions for an undergraduate degree, advanced degree, or even an online degree.

For institutions of higher learning, the application helps them to get matched with better-fitting students and don’t have to click through many ads on search engines. The tool works as a kind of CRM program and communication tool for the institutions.

Venture Capital Funding

UniApp raised 1 mn Euros in Seed Funding in Q2 2022. They are also currently in fundraising mode again.

UniApp is Hiring

You can learn more about them on their website here: https://uni-app.com/about-us/ and reach out via the website.

All Links and Show Notes

Here is our blog post:

Executive Summary

Filip is a founding partner of Cherry Ventures, one of Germany’s most important seed investors. Their portfolio includes unicorns like Flixbus, Auto1 Group, Forto, Infarm, and well-known startups like Amorelie, Kitchen Stories, Flaschenpost, Spryker, and Superlist. Their portfolio also includes our former guests: Qualifyze, Sanity Group, and Rows. Filip has a background as an entrepreneur himself, so he and Cherry approach startup investing differently. Tune in to learn more about him and the VC.

“We have software helping us to find good startups, for example, if you are head of product at a good startup and change your title to ‘working on something new’ we get notified.”

Filip Dames, Founding Partner Cherry Ventures

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“I really believe an investor should be stage focused”

Filip Dames, Founding Partner Cherry Ventures

German Startup Awards 2022

This interview is in media partnership with the German startup association (Bundesverband Deutscher Startups https://deutschestartups.org/). Their German Startup Awards #GSA22 honor each year outstanding female and male founders and investors in special categories. You can learn more about the winners in our interviews and on this website: https://germanstartupawards.de/rueckblick/rueckblick-2022  

You can also have a look at our history, we also interviewed many winners of the German Startup Awards 2021 already. 

The Founder

Filip Dames has had an accomplished career, starting out as an intern in Malaysia with DaimlerChrysler, at BCG, and Sony BMG in New York City. Following his venture into the corporate world, he then founded a collectible marketplace called Tamundo. There he went on to oversee the international expansion of Zalando and become the founder and CEO of Zalando Lounge (Zalando’s shopping club). The venture was a success, helping Zalando to go public in 2014. He decided to leave the company, making his 30th birthday also his Zalando farewell party.

From there Filip decided to venture off and focus on venture capital; so it came as no surprise when he started Cherry Ventures in 2013 in Berlin as business angel and startup investor. With tickets of 10.000–50.000€ they are dedicated to helping Germany, Europe, and beyond with investments for entrepreneurs wanting to make their visions reality.

“We invest almost exclusively in Europe”

Filip Dames, Founding Partner Cherry Ventures

Cherry Ventures

Cherry Ventures (https://www.cherry.vc/) is an early-stage venture capital fund founded and led by former entrepreneurs. They are focusing on European seed-stage companies in the B2B and B2C space. Cherry invests there at the pre-seed- and seed stage with initial tickets between €500k and €5M.

“Founders first and investors second” is the motto of Cherry Ventures

They started out with their first fund with their own money and the money of close friends, much less than 10 m €. From there they build a portfolio of 30 companies, of which some did really well. This in turn enabled them to raise an institutional fund, worth 150 m Euros. In the second...

Executive Summary

Milan graduated in 2022 from Highschool and is the founder of QiTech, a company that recycles bottle caps to create the plastic filament used in 3D printers. He was recently awarded the Newcomer of the Year at the German Startup Awards 2022. Milan has been working hard to grow QiTech into a successful business. In addition to selling the ink for 3d printers call filament, QiTech also sells the machines they use to produce the filament. This innovative approach to recycling has earned Milan recognition as an outstanding young entrepreneur. With his creative solution to the problem of plastic waste, Milan is positively impacting the environment and paving the way for a more sustainable future.

In plastic recycling you have to get down to the details, there is a lot of ‘greenwashing.’

Milan von dem Bussche, Founder QiTech

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“We produce (next to recycled filament) lab scale machines, where you can throw in the right kind of plastic on top and get 3d printing filament out at the end.”

Milan von dem Bussche, Founder QiTech

German Startup Awards 2022

This interview is in media partnership with the German startup association (Bundesverband Deutscher Startups https://deutschestartups.org/). Their German Startup Awards #GSA22 honor each year outstanding female and male founders and investors in special categories. You can learn more about the winners in our interviews and on this website: https://germanstartupawards.de/rueckblick/rueckblick-2022  

You can also have a look at our history, we also interviewed many winners of the German Startup Awards 2021 already. 

 “What we do is really recycling, not downcycling.”

Milan von dem Bussche, Founder QiTech

The Founder

Milan is a young entrepreneur who is already making waves in the business world. In March 2022, he won the German Startup Award, and in the summer of the same year, he graduated from high school. Von dem Bussche started his career at the age of 16 with 3d printing phone cases. He soon realized that there was more potential in recycling phone cases and turning them into 3d printing filament. The filament is the ink of a plastic 3d printer; it is a type of plastic that is heated and then layered on to create a 3d shape. Von dem Bussche and his team soon recognized that the filament business held much more potential than the phone case business, so they pivoted their focus. Their hard work has paid off; today, their company is one of the leading producers of 3d printing filament in Germany. von dem Bussche is proof that with a great idea and a lot of determination, anyone can succeed. As of December 2022, the team has not taken in outside investors, but they funded their startup with award money and a government stipend. 

The Startup

Milan von dem Bussche is a young entrepreneur who founded the startup QiTech. The company started out by 3d printing cell phone cases but later realized that there was a much bigger market in recycling plastics to 3d printing filament. So they pivoted. After being asked to sell their machines for sorting and recycling, QiTech also offers these machines at

Executive Summary

UnternehmerTUM helps experienced entrepreneurs and students to start, accelerate or fundraise to build world-class companies including but not limited to Flix, Celonis, Blickfeld, Isar Aerospace, Konux, tado, e-bot7, ProGlove or Lilium. At the 2022 German Startup Awards, UnternehmerTUM won the Special Award for their work. Therefore we interview Stefan, its COO in our series with the German Startup Association, and learn more about him and their programs.

German Startup Awards 2022

This interview is in media partnership with the German startup association (Bundesverband Deutscher Startups https://deutschestartups.org/). Their German Startup Awards #GSA22 honor each year outstanding female and male founders and investors in special categories. You can learn more about the winners in our interviews and on this website: https://germanstartupawards.de/rueckblick/rueckblick-2022

You can also have a look at our history, we also interviewed many winners of the German Startup Awards 2021 already.

The Award Winner

This time we have a very special case since the legal entity UnternehmerTUM won the German Startup Awards’ 2022 Special Award. UnternehmerTUM itself is attached to the Technical University of Munich (TUM). It is also one of the cradles of Munich’s world-class startup talent and a light tower in the education of entrepreneurs in Germany. We, therefore, talk to Stefan Drüssler.

Stefan , COO of UnternehmerTUM, is no stranger to entrepreneurism. As a past consultant with the Boston Consulting Group (BCG), he has advised startups and Fortune 500 companies alike on how to grow their businesses. But when he joined UnternehmerTUM 5 years ago, he found his true calling in helping entrepreneurs bring their startups to life.

Located in Munich, UnternehmerTUM is one of the world’s leading incubators and accelerators for startups. It is also a hub for entrepreneur education, providing programs and resources to help founders get their businesses off the ground. Recently, UnternehmerTUM was honored with the German Startup Awards’ 2022 Special Award. This recognition is a testament to the incredible work that Stefan and his colleagues are doing to support startup growth in Germany.

Looking to the future, Stefan is excited about the potential for UnternehmerTUM to continue supporting more founders as they turn their innovative ideas into successful businesses. With the right mix of resources and support, there’s no limit to what German startups can achieve.

The Institute

UnternehmerTUM was founded in 2002 by entrepreneur Susanne Klatten as a non-profit organization. With more than 50 high-growth technology start-ups each year and its unique offering, it is the leading center for innovation and business creation in Europe. It is an institute attached to the Technical University of Munich (TUM). 

Mrs. Klatten was raised in a successful entrepreneurial family and her family owns jointly the controlling stake in BMW. The organization’s goal is to promote entrepreneurship among students and scientists, and it offers a variety of programs and resources to support entrepreneurs and its members. In addition to providing educational opportunities, UnternehmerTUM also offers mentorship and networking programs to help its members connect with potential investors and customers. As a result of its efforts, UnternehmerTUM has helped to launch numerous successful businesses. 

UnternehmerTUM helps founders from the idea stage to financing, they are also involved in teaching entrepreneurship at TUM. They have more than 350 employees working on 20 independent programs, where they help with ideation, incubation,...

Executive Summary

Nora is the CEO and co-founder of Berlin-based Medtech Selfapy, a major provider of prescribable digital therapy solutions in Germany. She is the winner of this year's German Startup Award for Female Founder of the Year 2022 and a Forbes 30 under 30. She is a psychologist by training with degrees from York and Cambridge but decided to join startups early on, to later found Selfapy. Self-pay fills the void for patients while they are waiting for psychological treatments, which may take three to six months. After a long journey they now even have a reimbursement certification for German health insurers.

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German Startup Awards 2022

This interview is in media partnership with the German startup association (Bundesverband Deutscher Startups https://deutschestartups.org/). Their German Startup Awards #GSA22 honor each year outstanding female and male founders and investors in special categories. You can learn more about the winners in our interview and on this website:  https://germanstartupawards.de/rueckblick/rueckblick-2022

You can also have a look at our history, we also interviewed many winners of the German Startup Awards 2021 already.

The Founder

Our guest Nora is not only the winner of this year's German Startup Awards for Female Entrepreneur of the Year, but she is also a Forbes 30 under 30. She graduated from the University of York and the University of Cambridge with degrees in Psychology, before joining Rocket Internet. She later became City Head for Foodora in Hamburg and decided one faithful new years day that with this stress level, she could also venture out on her own, with larger rewards. Growing up in a family of psychologists, she decided early on to help people with mental disorders. She co-founded Selfapy in Berlin in 2016.

The Startup

Berlin-based Selfapy (https://www.selfapy.com/) addresses the issue of wait time for psychological treatments. Due to recent changes in German legislation, they are also available on prescription. The name Selfapy is a combination of self and therapy. The app bridges the wait time before a patient can see a psychologist, which can take up to 6 months. The app not only bridges this time but can also already help patients and lay the groundwork for therapy.

Selfapy runs clinical trials, where they could show that they reduce depression symptoms by up to 40% in 3 months.

Venture Capital Funding

Selfapy has raised 30 M US$ in funding in total. Note that Crunchbase is quite a bit outdated here. They are open to talking to new investors.

Selfapy is Hiring

You can have a look at our blog post to learn more.

Links and Show Notes HERE:

https://medium.com/@startuprad_io/medtech-startup-selfapy-offers-psychological-help-without-wait-gsa22-957b2354a05a

Topics Discussed in this Interview

In this interview we are talking about psychology, depression, psychological therapy, psychological help, eating disorders, prescription, apps on prescription, mental health, mental health apps, depression treatment, Berlin, startup, startups, mental health startup, MedTech startup, health care startup, venture capital, university of york, university of Cambridge

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Younium and Tvarit

Our Enablers Younium Younium is the subscription management and billing platform for B2B SaaS. Younium brings the transformative infrastructure to manage and grow your business while you focus on the things that matter. https://www.younium.com/ Tvarit Tvarit is an industrial ai startup, that helps companies to reduce rejections by 40%-60% in metal casting, as well

Our Highlights:

FTX may be history, BUT a German Blog reports there are several parties interested in buying the European Entity of FTX. FTX also triggered Bitpanda to order a special audit from KPMG. We have some more job cuts, this time the 2nd round. Gorillas may sell itself at 1 bn USD even though they have raised 1.3 bn USD in venture capital already. Air taxis are still hot, Volocopter raises more than 180 m US$ to get closer to certification and Lilium sells 100 Airtaxis to Saudi Arabia. The German VC market is stabilizing, according to KfW Research. Our former guest Creditshelf partners with Goldman Sachs and pockets 100 m Euros. Gitpod, a startup from Kiel convinces the founders of GitHub and Shopify to invest.

Let's talk startups:

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Top News

FTX may soon be History, BUT

A German blog Finance Forward reports there are several parties interested in buying the European Entity of FTX, which is headquartered in Switzerland. Their information has been spot-on in other cases in the past.

Job Cuts Keep Coming - 2nd Round Now

Proptechs Homeday and McMakler enter the second round of job cuts. Homeday cuts 20 jobs (60 before) and McMakler again 100 employees

Gorillas May Sell Itself at a Huge Discount

Sequoia-backed grocery startup Getir is close to buying its troubled rival Gorillas in a heavily discounted deal said to be worth less than $1 billion. They have been valued at their series C investment at 2.1 bn US$ and to date they raised more than 1.3 bn US$.

Related: Deutsche-Startups uncovered that Gorillas (which is in the process of selling itself) paid 300 m € this year for french competitor Frichti.

Lilium Sells 100 Airtaxis

Saudi Arabia buys 100 air taxis from Munich -based startup Lilium. The delivery is expected 2025. Before the deal, they also hired former Airbus executive Klaus Roewe. Fingers crossed for them, they did not generate revenue yet, but 841 m Euros in losses so far.

Volocopter Raises 182 M US$

Volocopter raises $182M to bring air taxi closer to certification, as part of their Series E funding

The company is currently testing its two-seater VoloCity air taxi for the requirements set by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Volocopter is looking to certify its aircraft in H2 2023 and generate revenue with rides in 2024.

Creditshelf Partners with Goldman Sachs

Our former guest Creditshelf partners with Goldman Sachs and hits profitability - Goldman Sachs is providing the German alternative lender for SMEs with up to €100m of secured funding. Learn more in our interview with Creditshelf here https://buff.ly/3NVANo1

Creditshelf is Germany’s only listed pure-play fintech, offering a credit platform, where investors can grant credit to German small and medium enterprises.

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Younium and Tvarit

Our Enablers Younium Younium is the subscription management and billing platform for B2B SaaS. Younium brings the transformative infrastructure to manage and grow your business while you focus on the things that matter. https://www.younium.com/ Tvarit Tvarit is an industrial ai startup, that helps companies to reduce rejections by 40%-60% in metal casting, as well as saving up to 18% on energy. Learn more here: https://www.tvarit.com/

Executive Summary

Johanna Baare is the founder of Traceless Materials, a startup that produces compostable materials to replace plastic. She was recently awarded the German Startup Award for "Female Newcomer of the Year 2022." Congratulations, Johanna! The award is presented by the German Startup Association. Baare's company is just one of many startups fighting plastic pollution. It's estimated that 40% of today's plastic waste ends up in the environment. This has devastating consequences for wildlife and ecosystems. Traceless Materials' products will decompose in nature in two to ten weeks, without leaving any trace. Baare is one of many female entrepreneurs leading the charge against plastic pollution. We need more innovators like her to create a cleaner, greener future for us all.

German Startup Awards 2022

This interview is in media partnership with the German startup association. Their German Startup Awards #GSA22 honor each year outstanding female and male founders and investors in special categories.

You can also have a look at our history, we also interviewed many winners of the German Startup Awards 2021 already.

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The Founder

Johanna Baare is the COO and co-founder of Traceless Materials, an innovative Hamburg-based startup company that specializes in sustainable and eco-friendly materials. She has a background in psychology, which comes in handy for her current role in hr and team building. She also holds an MBA from IE Business School. Before Traceless Materials, she was the COO of a Malmö-based startup where she gained valuable experience in the SaaS industry. Her experience in consulting and management has been invaluable in her current role. Under her leadership, Traceless Materials has become one of the leading companies in its field.

The Startup

Founded in 2020 by two female entrepreneurs, Traceless is a startup that produces biomaterials to replace plastic. Johanna met her co-founder Anne at ProjectTogether in Berlin, which matches co-founders. The material is compostable, meaning it breaks down into natural substances in two to ten weeks without leaving any trace of microplastic. The company's mission is to reduce the environmental impact of plastic waste. In addition to being compostable, the biomaterial is also recyclable and biodegradable. Traceless is currently working on developing a variety of applications for their biomaterial, including packaging, food service items, and medical supplies. The company has already received funding from several venture capital firms and the European Union. With its innovative biomaterial and commitment to sustainability, Traceless is poised to make a significant impact in the fight against plastic pollution.

The team is looking to build a first industrial-scale plant approximately the size of one hectare (107,000 square feet). The next step would be to produce at an industrial scale where the team is looking right now to match the price of non-recycled, aka virgin plastic. The big advantage of their material is that traditional plastic producers can use their granulate in existing machines. This will significantly lower the costs for companies who want to produce sustainable plastic and could eventually lead to replacing a large percentage of traditional plastic with this new sustainable option.

Venture Capital Funding

Traceless has raised 2,8 M US$ in funding, from 4 investors, including the European Innovation Council and HTGF (link interview CEO). Of these are 2,4 mn Euros from the EU. Right now Traceless is looking for investors to build a small scale industrial plant to procude more of their...

Executive Summary

Meet Joel Tasche, CEO, and Founder of CleanHub, a green startup on a mission to fight ocean plastic pollution. They enter partnerships with brands to remove plastic waste. They use the proceeds to collect plastic waste in areas, that don’t have waste management systems in place. So this plastic is not ending up in the ocean. Hear about the company’s approach to helping save the planet and what positions they are looking to fill.

“Currently we are pumping anywhere from 11 to 14 million metric tons into the oceans”

Joel Tasche, Founder and CEO of Cleanhub

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Our Enablers

Younium

Younium is the subscription management and billing platform for B2B SaaS. Younium brings the transformative infrastructure to manage and grow your business while you focus on the things that matter. https://www.younium.com/

Tvarit

Tvarit is an industrial ai startup, that helps companies to reduce rejections by 40%-60% in metal casting, as well as saving up to 18% on energy. Learn more here: https://www.tvarit.com/

Startupraven.com

The best way to identify investors and cooperation partners for early stage startups. Sign up for early access here:

Startup Raven

The Founder

Joel Tasche is the CEO and founder of Cleanhub, a startup that is working to reduce ocean plastic pollution. Tasche has always enjoyed nature, growing up on Lake Constanz and close to the Alps. He is also an avid surfer, which is why he decided to spend a semester in Hawaii during his bachelor’s degree. He pursued his master’s at HTW Dresden but enjoyed his internship so much that he stayed in business, instead of returning to finish his master’s.

While surfing and hiking in Indonesia, Tasche was horrified by the amount of plastic pollution he saw in the ocean. He realized that he needed to do something to preserve beautiful nature and restrain plastic waste. This led him to a one-year research phase, after leaving his corporate job. Eventually, he founded Cleanhub with the goal of reducing ocean plastic pollution. Cleanhub is working on innovative ways to reduce ocean plastic pollution, and Tasche is hopeful that they will be able to make a significant impact.

The Startup

Ocean pollution has become a major problem in recent years, as the amount of plastic waste that ends up in the ocean continues to increase. According to some estimates, there may be more than 5 trillion pieces of plastic debris floating in the ocean, and this debris is having a devastating impact on marine life. Cleanhub is a green startup that is working to tackle this problem, in partnership with brands. The company was founded by Joel Tasche, who was inspired to take action after seeing the impact of ocean pollution firsthand. While Tasche initially focused his efforts on improving the German waste management system, he quickly realized that this would not make the impact he desired. After receiving a message from a friend in India, Tasche shifted his focus to regions where waste management systems are lacking. Through its partnerships with brands, Cleanhub collects and recycles plastic waste, helping to reduce ocean pollution and protect marine...

Welcome to the second Episode, brought to you from the European Angel Investment Summit 2022. 

The European Business Angel Network (EBAN) is an organization that brings together business angels from all over Europe. The aim of the organization is to provide a forum for business angels to share best practices and learn from each other. EBAN also offers training for new business angels who want to get involved in startup investing. The organization held one of its two annual conferences in Brussels recently, bringing together business angel investors from all over the continent. This year's conference was particularly important, as it provided a much-needed opportunity for startup founders to connect with potential investors. With the COVID-19 pandemic causing economic uncertainty, many startups are struggling to secure funding. 

The conference offered a unique opportunity for startups to pitch their businesses to a large group of potential investors. The conference was a valuable opportunity for startup founders to meet with potential investors and get their businesses off the ground.

300 seed-stage startups applied to be at this event of which 25 have been chosen. The event took place in Brussels. 

We focused on startups from Germany and made short interviews with them on-site. If you want one or more of these startups back for a full interview, let us know in the comments or via email. The event was a great opportunity to network and exchange ideas with other startup founders, business angels, and VC investors from all across Europe. 

We also got insights into the early-stage startup scene across the continent and had the chance to listen to some great startup pitches. All in all, it was a very inspiring event that definitely left us wanting more. The next event will take place in Athens, Greece in April 2023. You can apply for the event via the EBAN website: https://www.eban.org/ 

Publication Schedule Startuprad.io

We are in the hot fall for Startuprad.io, where we publish two episodes each week, until Christmas. We will finish the year with our annual fintech review on December 25th and be back for you on January 19th, 2022.

Enabler

Hessen Trade and Invest is the enabler of some of the most important interviews that have been conducted for this website. Without their brand, Invest-in-Hessen.com, none of these would have been possible. These interviews would not have been possible without Hessen Trade and Invest's willingness to help facilitate my travel and connect me with startups in their network. 

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Chapters:

00:00:00 Intro

00:00:17 Welcome by Joe

00:01:06 Desire Dosch - Guide Care

00:06:34 Hannah Helmke - right. based on science

00:13:30 Katja Filippenko - Saatgutkonfetti

00:22:15 Nikolaus D. Bayer - German Business Angel of the Year 2020

00:26:18 Harald Holzer - HIGHEST - TU Darmstadt

Find all blog posts with all the links on our blog

https://medium.com/@startuprad_io/female-founders-at-the-european-angel-investment-summit-2-2-e63ba80f5d51

Topics discussed in this episode:

health tech, MedTech, home care, care-dependent, care at home, startup, startups, business angel, seed...

Executive Summary

We hear from Meeri, who is the co-founder of INZMO (Insurance on Mobile). She co-founded the Berlin-based insurtech which helps to make simple insurance contracts via an app. The simple approach also made them one of the fastest-growing insurtechs in Europe. In the interview we talk about her journey from a corporate lawyer to an entrepreneur, pivoting and founding INZMO. We also talk about how a simple insurance contract via an app could turn 50 bn € sitting on bank accounts productive again. Tune in to learn more.

“Our mantra is that insurance just has to be there, hidden in other products. You only realize it is there when you need it.”Meeri Savolainen, CEO and Co-Founder INZMO

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“We want to be one of the service providers, … who help you to have a fun, free and flexible live.”Meeri Savolainen, CEO and Co-Founder INZMO

Our Enablers

Younium

Younium is the subscription management and billing platform for B2B SaaS. Younium brings the transformative infrastructure to manage and grow your business while you focus on the things that matter. https://www.younium.com/

Tvarit

Tvarit is an industrial ai startup, that helps companies to reduce rejections by 40%-60% in metal casting, as well as saving up to 18% on energy. Learn more here: https://www.tvarit.com/

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Startup Raven

The Founder

Today we’re joined by Meeri, the CEO and co-founder of Berlin-based insurtech startup INZMO. Meeri is a lawyer by training, and she spent several years working in the corporate world before deciding to start her own company. Her co-founders include Risto Klausen a former professional motorcycle road racer and multiple Estonian and Baltic Champion in the Superbike class, which helped inspire the company’s focus on insurance for bikes. They pivoted from only bikes to providing more offers via the app. Since its launch in 2019, INZMO has become one of the leading apps for mobile insurance in Europe, and Meeri has been named one of the top 10 women to watch in insurtech in 2022. We’re excited to hear more about her story and her company’s success. Thanks for joining us, Meeri!

The Startup

INZMO was born out of the idea to quickly insure a bike via an app (Bike ID). During product presentations of Bike ID the team got feedback, on why they only offer insurance for a bike via their app.

This was the moment INZMO was born. The team relocated to Berlin from Estonia. The company is by now one of the fastest-growing insurtechs in Europe, with a female founder. This makes INZMO the first insurtech company in Europe that offers property insurance for e-scooters and regular bicycles through an app. The whole insurance process takes just a few minutes and is completed entirely online — from signing the contract to making a claim.

Currently available in Germany, and several other European countries with plans to expand further. And with over 30,000 users already on board, it looks like INZMO is well on its way to becoming the go-to insurance provider for two-wheeled commuters across Europe. They currently offer property insurance including to replace of a rental...

The European Business Angel Network (EBAN) is an organization that brings together business angels from all over Europe. The aim of the organization is to provide a forum for business angels to share best practices and learn from each other. EBAN also offers training for new business angels who want to get involved in startup investing. The organization held one of its two annual conferences in Brussels recently, bringing together business angel investors from all over the continent. This year’s conference was particularly important, as it provided a much-needed opportunity for startup founders to connect with potential investors. With the COVID-19 pandemic causing economic uncertainty, many startups are struggling to secure funding. The conference offered a unique opportunity for startups to pitch their businesses to a large group of potential investors. EBAN director Jacopo Losso spoke about the importance of business angels in the current climate, saying “business angels are more important than ever in these challenging times.”Losso went on to say that business angels “provide the seed funding that is essential for many startups.” The conference was a valuable opportunity for startup founders to meet with potential investors and get their businesses off the ground.

For this event more than 300 seed-stage startups applied, of which they have chosen 25 for the event. The event we attended took place in Brussels. We focused on startups from Germany and made short interviews with them on-site. If you want one or more of these startups back for a full interview, let us know in the comments or via email. The event was a great opportunity to network and exchange ideas with other startup founders, business angels, and VC investors from all across Europe. We also got insights into the early-stage startup scene across the continent and had the chance to listen to some great startup pitches. All in all, it was a very inspiring event that definitely left us wanting more. The next event will take place in Athens, Greece in April 2023. You can apply for the event via the EBAN website: https://www.eban.org/

This episode also kicks off our hot fall, where we have two episodes each week, until Christmas. We will finish the year with our annual fintech review on December 25th and be back for you on January 19th 2023.

Our Enablers

Hessen Trade and Invest

Hessen Trade and Invest is the enabler of some of the most important interviews that have been conducted for this website. Without their brand, Invest-in-Hessen.com, none of these would have been possible. These interviews would not have been possible without Hessen Trade and Invest’s willingness to help facilitate my travel and connect me with startups in their network. 

Younium

Younium is the subscription management and billing platform for B2B SaaS. Younium brings the transformative infrastructure to manage and grow your business while you focus on the things that matter. https://www.younium.com/

Tvarit

Tvarit is an industrial ai startup, that helps companies to reduce rejections by 40%-60% in metal casting, as well as saving up to 18% on energy. Learn more here: https://www.tvarit.com/

Startupraven.com

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Startup Raven

This Episode

00:00 Introduction00:16 Welcome by Joe01:46 Jacopo Losso — Managing Director of the European Business Angel Network 07:28 Philo Boras — CEO and Co-Founder Aurora Life Sciences 11:36 Nauman Basit — Founder, CEO and CTO of racksnet 16:58 Pascal Schmitt — CEO Voxel Sound 20:35 Stephane Ruiz — European...

The Network of European Startup Hubs 101 (Podcast)

You have it all wrong. Europe is not full of competing startup hubs. They are increasingly forming a network for startups. The startups start at one knot in the network (frequently a university), move on to an accelerator, and end up in one of Europe's top 12 fundraising hubs to raise funds, sometimes becoming a unicorn. On their way, the startups leave traces, like R&D capabilities, sales teams, groups, investors, and so on. So they are not really the product of a city, but a continent with free movement. in our blog post you will find the link to a 115-page report that includes much more data.

Our Enablers

Younium

Younium is the subscription management and billing platform for B2B SaaS. Younium brings the transformative infrastructure to manage and grow your business while you focus on the things that matter. https://www.younium.com/

Tvarit

Tvarit is an industrial ai startup, that helps companies to reduce rejections by 40%-60% in metal casting, as well as saving up to 18% on energy. Learn more here: https://www.tvarit.com/

Startupraven.com

The best way to identify investors and cooperation partners for early stage startups. Sign up for early access here:

Startup Raven

About the Pulse of the European Startup Ecosystem

The European startup scene is changing fast. There are new players, old ones fading away, and even more to come in their place- all vying for a piece of this growing pie! In order not to get left behind you need regular updates on what’s going on so that our entrepreneurs can stay one step ahead when building or investing in companies here. That’s why we started the “Pulse of the European Startup Ecosystem” which will provide you with quarterly podcasts chronicling different aspects related to startup activity across European Hubs, supported by the data from the specialized analytics company DEEP Ecosystems.

A Different Understanding of Startup Hubs

In the US most startup hubs have to fulfill most of the functions (incubation, acceleration, expansion, fundraising, …). Especially the Silicon Valley and Bay Area had no other option since they are the cradle of today's startup culture. In Europe on the other hand — with its free movement — a network of hubs developed, where hubs fulfill a function in the growth journey of a startup.

We pick today three functions of hubs in the network and show you how startups are moving along the network, staying in cities and — some of their staff — moving on to the next stage. But there are always departments, teams, or research locations left in the former home cities. This leads to real European startups, that are distributed across the continent in different locations, departments, teams, and functions.

The Twelve Hubs Leading Europe in Fundraising

12 Startup Hubs in Europe already reached critical size (raising more than 1 bn € in funding in one year in 2021. They are London, Berlin, Paris, Stockholm, Tel Aviv, Munich, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Madrid, Copenhagen, Dublin, and Helsinki. Coming from only one, London, in 2013. Most founders take the opportunity of free movement across the European Union, so the EU beats the US as a preferred location for European entrepreneurs.

57% of founders prefer Europe over the US. When asked where founders would...

Welcome to This Month in German, Swiss, and Austrian (GSA) Startups in October 2022 by Startuprad.io with Chris from Essen, Germany, and Joe from Frankfurt. We recorded this news episode on Thursday, October 20th, 2022.

Our Highlights:

Another one of our former guests gets a Snoop Dog investment. Quick delivery startup Gorillas seems to sell itself to competitor Getir, according to Bloomberg, despite an earlier announcement they are looking for more investments. Gadget rental service Grover adds 270 m € in venture debt, getting it close to 2 billion €. Our former guest Nuri (formerly Bitwala) had to file for insolvency, now investors jump ship and the company is wound down this year. Volocopter is sued by early crowdfunding backers, Home24 has a takeover offer from a brick-and-mortar furniture retailer and BioNTech takes on cancer. Also, Munich-based travel tech Holidu raises 100 m € in a combination of 75 m equity and 25 m debt funding.

Let’s talk startups:

Our Enablers

Younium

Younium is the subscription management and billing platform for B2B SaaS. Younium brings the transformative infrastructure to manage and grow your business while you focus on the things that matter. https://www.younium.com/

Tvarit

Tvarit is an industrial ai startup, that helps companies to reduce rejections by 40%-60% in metal casting, as well as saving up to 18% on energy. Learn more here: https://www.tvarit.com/

Invest-in-Hessen

This show was made possible by Hessen Trade and Invest with their brand Invest-in-Hessen. You can learn more about them here (https://www.invest-in-hessen.com/). We also run a dedicated sub-podcast with all interviews and news in cooperation with them. Find it all here:

Tech Startups Germany - Startups and Venture Capital

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Startup Raven

Top News

Europe’s Largest Cannabis Funding To Date

Europe’s largest cannabis funding to date: Snoop Dogg-backed German cannabis startup gets $37.6M Series B led by British American Tobacco

learn more about the Entrepreneur of the Year 2021 (German Startup Awards) founder Finn Age Hänsel in our interview

Gorillas May Soon Be Bought By Getir

Delivery Startup Getir in Advanced Talks to Buy Gorillas (Bloomberg). They write:

• “Proposed deal for Gorillas would be a mix of cash and equity
• The combination would give Getir, which is backed by Mubadala Investment Co. and Sequoia Capital, scale in key European markets including the UK and Germany.
• Gorillas had previously held talks with a number of competitors about the prospects for a merger or sale of its business, people familiar with the matter said previously.
• Chief Executive Officer Kagan Sumer said earlier this year that he planned to look for new financing to recalibrate the company to work toward profitability.” 

Grover Takes Home 270 m €

As consumer spending tightens, yet appetites for tech remain the same, Berlin-based Grover sees an uptick in rental interest and is now bringing its debt funding to close to €2 billion to meet demand. Grover takes on more debt funding, this time €270 million from London-based M&G

Our Former Guest Nuri (Bitwala)

Will be wound down. Despite seeing interest from investors, they could not get one to sign up. So the company will be shut down until the end of the year. The last day one can use a Nuri account is in mid-December. Neobank Vivid makes

Executive Summary

The industrial ai startup Tvarit is focused on optimizing the process of casting metals. This process is abundant for parts in robots, cars, all kinds of machines, and heavy equipment. With their approach they help their clients save up to 18% of their energy bill, increase production quality and lower the wastage of the process. Tvarit has raised almost 3 million in funding since our 2019 interview and is looking for Series A funding. Suhas founded 17 startups prior to Tvarit, with this being startup №18, for which he sees the potential to become a unicorn. We’re excited to see how Tvarit will develop industrial ai further and help factories across the world save money and produce better quality products.

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Our Enablers

Our Sponsor Younium

Younium is the subscription management and billing platform for B2B SaaS. Younium brings the transformative infrastructure to manage and grow your business while you focus on the things that matter. https://www.younium.com/

Invest-in-Hessen

This show was made possible by Hessen Trade and Invest with their brand Invest-in-Hessen. You can learn more about them here (https://www.invest-in-hessen.com/). We also run a dedicated sub-podcast with all interviews and news in cooperation with them. Find it all here:

Tech Startups Germany - Startups and Venture Capital

The Founder

Suhas is a serial entrepreneur who has founded 18 startups, including his last one Tvarit in Frankfurt. Tvarit is an industry 4.0 AI startup that Startuprad.io has been following since 2019. Suhas is an engineer by training (ISEP in Paris). Suhas has worked for more than 12 years for Qualcoom and other companies before becoming an entrepreneur. He has been (co)founding industrial companies and startups in Europe and India already in the past, so this is nothing new for him.

In this interview we focus more on the development of Tvarit, for everyone who likes to learn more, we will also link the October 2019 interview in our blog post.

The Startup

As industry 4.0 and the industrial internet of things (IIoT) continue to evolve, so too does the potential for artificial intelligence (AI) in manufacturing. Manufacturers are already using AI-powered robots for tasks like welding and fabricating, and the technology is quickly being adopted across the industrial sector. One area where AI is making a big impact is in metal casting. By analyzing data from the casting process, Tvarit can help to optimize production and improve quality control. As a result, factories that adopt AI-powered metal casting solutions are able to produce parts more efficiently and with fewer defects and less energy. Tvarit is one company that is leading the way in this area, and its industrial AI software is helping manufacturers around the world to improve their operations.

All Links and Show Notes

Here is our blog post: https://medium.com/@startuprad_io/tvarit-has-an-industrial-ai-that-brings-real-change-to-metal-casting-4bba280bbafc

Topics Discussed in this Interview

In this interview we are talking about metal casting, metal casting parts, industry 4.0, industrie 4.0, industrial internet of things, ai, artificial intelligence, manufacturing,...

Executive Summary

Berlin-based green startup Trilleco is on a mission to help businesses analyze and manage their environmental impact, with their industrial IoT data platform. The startup's non-code data platform makes it easy for companies to see how they can reduce their carbon footprint and make positive changes for the environment. Female co-founder Miriam Janke is passionate about helping businesses operate in a more sustainable way and contribute to the goal of limiting global warming. In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, Trilleco is also working towards a circular economy where resources are reused instead of being thrown away. Through its innovative platform, Trilleco is helping businesses make meaningful progress towards a more sustainable future.

This interview is part of our female entrepreneurship track, where Joe is sick leave cover for Johanna.

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A startup's journey can be a tough one, but it doesn't have ́to feel like you're alone on your quest! Invest in others' success with us by joining our community of entrepreneurs who are building amazing things every day - no matter how big or small their ideas may seem at first glance.

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Our Sponsor Younium

Younium is the subscription management and billing platform for B2B SaaS. Younium brings the transformative infrastructure to manage and grow your business while you focus on the things that matter. https://www.younium.com/

The Founder

Miriam Janke (https://www.linkedin.com/in/miriam-janke/) is an inspiring young female founder who has co-founded green startup trilleco to work on a better future. She is currently with her startup in the Paris TechStars accelerator, where she is working on developing her green business goals. Miriam is a TEDx speaker on environmental protection and has spoken widely about the need for more female entrepreneurs in the green business space. Her work with trilleco is helping to make the world a cleaner and more sustainable place, and she is an inspiration to other young women who are looking to make a difference in the world. We can all learn from Miriam's example and be inspired by her commitment to making a difference.

The Startup

Trilleco (https://www.trilleco.com/) is a green startup based in Berlin that has developed a data platform to help industry 4.0 become more sustainable. The platform makes data from the company accessible and makes the environmental impact visible to enable the company to manage it. The company's goal is to help reduce the environmental impact of industrial IoT by making it easier for companies to adopt green practices. Trilleco is one of the first companies to offer a no-code data platform that makes it easy for companies to get started with green practices. The company has ion the EIT Manufacturing program and is currently part of the TechStars Accelerator in Paris.

Trilleco is Hiring

They have offices in Finnland, Germany and Spain. They also operate in Austria, Switzerland and Italy. You can learn more about them here: https://www.trilleco.com/careers

Executive Summary

Monite is a Berlin-based embedded finance startup, which is already active in the US, UK, and major European economies, despite being at Seed Stage. With their API partners like B2B neobanks, SaaS companies & marketplaces can embed Invoicing, AP Automation, and more in 3–5 weeks. They are looking for next year for their next funding and start to offer contract management.

We really want to make sure, that anyone who wants to offer workflows with financial documents … can integrate it with us. Ivan Maryasin, CEO & Co-Founder Monite

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The revolution is yet to happen for CFO tools.Ivan Maryasin, CEO & Co-Founder Monite

Our Sponsor Younium

Younium is the subscription management and billing platform for B2B SaaS. Younium brings the transformative infrastructure to manage and grow your business while you focus on the things that matter. https://www.younium.com/

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A startup’s journey can be a tough one, but it doesn’t have ́to feel like you’re alone on your quest! Invest in others’ success with us by joining our community of entrepreneurs who are building amazing things every day — no matter how big or small their ideas may seem at first glance.

The best way to find investors and cooperation partners for early-stage startups. Sign up here: https://startupraven.com/

Our tool could be build by bigger players in 12–18 months, but we give them an API with which they can start earn revenue in a few weeks.Ivan Maryasin, CEO & Co-Founder Monite

The Founder

Our guest is today Ivan Maryasin the CEO and Co-Founder of embedded finance startup Monite. He worked in Moskow, Boston, and the Bay Area, and finally ended up in Berlin in the early team of Penta, as head of growth. He left Penta, when he saw the opportunity for embedded finance tools, especially for CFOs, in order to set up Monite.

The Startup

Monite is an embedded finance startup, that enables non-financial companies to add financial functions without holding a license. The tool of Monite helps startups and SMEs automate some of their finance workflows. They enter the market another way, they are not offering their services to the clients directly, but enable the service providers to offer accounting and financial services, e.g. Qonto, and Penta.

They currently offer payables automation and receivables automation. Monite is currently available in the US, UK, and major countries of the EU.

In 2023 they will focus on contract management, to integrate in their functions.

Find all the Links and Show Notes here:

https://medium.com/@startuprad_io/meet-monite-they-make-the-life-of-cfos-easier-startuprad-io-257afdc8be79

Topics discussed in this interview:

finance, treasury, embedded finance, treasury function, financial management, startup financial management, integration, saas, api, accounts payables, usa, uk, eu, germany, france, venture capital, hiring, open positions

Our highlights:

Germany is preparing for a potentially rough winter, in many ways. Now Environmental Action Germany (Deutsche Umwelthilfe): Asked Germans not to put up any Christmas lights this season. Startups in GSA keep laying off staff, but also raising significant funds. We have our usually shortened list a bit longer this month, to show that it is not all gloom and doom here. You will also notice that the M&A activity is up, totaling 55 bn US$ in summer 2022 (for all of Europe), and is still going strong.

Let’s talk startups: 

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Our Enablers

Invest-in-Hessen

This show was made possible by Hessen Trade and Invest with their brand Invest-in-Hessen. You can learn more about them here (https://www.invest-in-hessen.com/). We also run a dedicated sub-podcast with all interviews and news in cooperation with them. Find it all here:

Tech Startups Germany

Startupraven.com

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Startup Raven

Blog Post

Find all links, news and show notes here: https://medium.com/@startuprad_io/this-month-in-german-swiss-and-austrian-gsa-startups-september-2022-53339fae6ca7 

Top News

Berlin’s Everphone extends Series C to $232M

Everphone started with their first fundraising for Series C in December 2021 and now make an additional closing of 32 mn Euros, which totals — according to PitchBook 232 m US$ Series C for their device-as-a-service model

Crypto Boom is slowing

European crypto app downloads have almost halved from 2021 amongst the biggest drops are Blockchain.com and unicorn Bitpanda.

Sifted writes “Beleaguered Austrian crypto trading platform Bitpanda saw a 65% decrease in app downloads from 563k in H1 2021 to 197k in H1 2022. In June, the company laid off a third of its employees, admitting that it had hired too fast and needed to cut back expenditure amid the crypto market rout.” VCs keep an eye on their investments and the app downloads are a proxy for growth here for them.

Insolvencies hit household names

Yes, they are not startups, but it gives you a great overview of the current environment, also for the startups

• Automotive supplier Dr. Schneider has to file for insolvency with 4000 people employed there
• Shoe retailer Ludwig Görtz is a staple in German shopping streets founded in 1875 with their big stores and 1.800 employees, now they have to file for insolvency
• German toilet paper producer Hakle is a household staple in Germany. Now they have to file for insolvency, due to high costs of raw materials, energy, and transportation
• Traditional Austrian lighting company Kolarz, founded in 1918, has to file for insolvency   

Podcast monetization is getting serious with international involvement

Lots of mergers in monetizing podcasts, the first Julep from Munich was bought by Libsyn and now London-based Auddy buys Vienna-based Audiomy 

More firings :-(

Keep in mind here, that most startups are likely not in financial trouble, but they rather try to extend the money they have already raised. The consensus seems to be cutting 15–20% of the workforce for most startups.

• Berlin-based escooter company Tier...

Executive Summary

This episode is part of our Subject Matter Expert Interviews. It will be one in a series over time, keeping up with the development of the central banks and their digital currency. This episode is just the start! We talk to Kimmo, a regtech entrepreneur, who formerly worked at the central banks of Finland, Norway, the Bank of England, ECB, and the Fed in New York City. This episode is a starting point for us, from which we will dive deeper, keeping up with the developments on CBDC.

At the Federal Reserve in New York I siumlated attacks on critical infrastructure on the back of the 9/11 attacks.Kimmo Soramäki, Founder and CEO of FNA

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We work with a lof of clients with three letter acronyms. So we decided to name our company financial network analytics, FNA.Kimmo Soramäki, Founder and CEO of FNA

The Expert

This episode is part of our Subject Matter Expert Interviews. It will be one in a series over time, keeping up with the development of the central banks and their digital currency. We talk to Kimmo, a regtech entrepreneur, who founded with FNA a company that helps banks, central banks and financial institutions. He has already advisde the central banks of Finland and Norway, been a visiting researcher at the Bank of England and expert at ECB. He also spents a year as research economist at the Fed in New York City. His first software simulated for finish banks the impact of joining the euro zone.

When the financial crisis 2008 came, we realized that we don’t need an outside attack on the symstem to destabilize it. Kimmo Soramäki, Founder and CEO of FNA

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Blog Post

Find all links and show notes here: https://medium.com/@startuprad_io/fintech-opportunities-in-cental-bank-digital-currency-part-1-839a35c2a1be

Topics Discussed in This Episode:

central banks, central bank digital currency, digital currency, bank of english, federal bank, federal bank of new york, bank of england, currency, timeline, cbdc, stable coin, usd coin, us dollar stable coin, euro stable coin, cny, chinese yuan, chinese stable coin, yuan stable coin

Executive Summary

The Global Savings Group (GSG) is not a fintech. They are a hidden champion as Europe’s leading shopping rewards company, founded in 2012. They are offering an alternative to the GAFA channels and are active in 20+ countries under different brands. Amongst their clients are small merchants and well-known global companies.

“We try to offer an alternative to the GAFA [Google, Apple, Facebook, and Amazon] channels, but we don’t do classical advertising”Gerhard Trautmann, CEO and Co-Founder GSG 

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The Founder

This time Gerhard Trautmann is our guest, the CEO and co-founder of Munich-based Global Savings Group. If you have not heard of them, they are active in 20+ countries under different brand names. He met his co-founders while still working in management consulting, and they decided to make their Powerpoint slides reality.

“Oliver Samwer said he did not like our ideas, but we could be a cool team.”Gerhard Trautmann, CEO and Co-Founder GSG

The Company

Global Savings Group (https://www.global-savings-group.com/) is not a fintech company, they are working in the affiliate marketing space. They call themself a lead generation company, including couponing pages. They are active in 20+ countries with multiple websites across Europe. They won the German Deliotte Fast 50 Award.They own several commerce content portals. Some of their largest markets are the UK and France, even though they are headquartered in Munich. The company was started in cooperation with Rocket Internet. Amongst their clients are small merchants and adidas, Just Eat, IKEA, dyson, Lenovo, SAMSUNG, ebay, Nike, H&M, Booking.com, O2, Sephora and Ray Ban.

They are also working with large media companies including Focus, CNN, El Pais, IG.com (Brazil), Le Express (France), Business Insider and One India on deals, discounts and coupons.

“We funded our acquistions as a combination from our profits, loans and exchange of shares”Gerhard Trautmann, CEO and Co-Founder GSG 

Venture Capital Funding

The company raised in total M 79 US$ in funding since interception in 2012 up to Series D. They did not disclose the amount of their last funding in 2021. Amongst their investors are General Global Capital, TRP Global, HV Capital, Groupe M6, Rocket Internet, DTCP, New Enterprise Associates and Headline.

Open to Talk to Takeover Targets

GSG wants to grow organically, but is open to talk to companies that feel like they could add to their journey. 

Learn More

Find our blog with links and show notes here...

Executive Summary

COMPREDICT is a Darmstadt, Germany-based deep tech startup, offering virtual sensors for cars. They already convinced Michelin and Blackberry to invest, so we thought it would be about time to catch up with the team around Rafael.

Virtual sensors in a car take data from physical sensors and fuse them to generate additional measurements. Rafael Fietzek, MD and Co-Founder COMPREDICT 

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Our Enablers

Invest-in-Hessen

This show was made possible by Hessen Trade and Invest with their brand Invest-in-Hessen. You can learn more about them here (https://www.invest-in-hessen.com/). We also run a dedicated sub-podcast with all interviews and news in cooperation with them. Find it all here: https://techstartups.sounder.fm/

A normal car has four physical wheel speed sensors to measure each wheel. With us, you need only two physical sensors and save money.Rafael Fietzek, MD and Co-Founder COMPREDICT 

Feedback

We are always looking for ways to make the show better. Please take this opportunity and share your feedback with us! You can also suggest topics or interview partners that you’d like featured on future episodes by leaving a comment below — we would love to hear from YOU!!!

https://forms.gle/mLV6mVKwGwKuut8BA 

Blog Post with Links and Show Notes

Find it here: https://medium.com/@startuprad_io/meet-compredict-the-startup-where-blackberry-and-michelin-invested-15b6f4aa6c70 

Our Highlights

Startups in GSA did better than expected. We had a few insolvency filings, but also amazing fundraisings like Celonis 1 bn US$ combination of equity and debt funding. Insuftech Wefox raises 400 m. One can already see the signs of a downturn, M&A activity going up, as well as the news about insolvencies or job cuts/ hiring freezes. But — according to a Bikcom survey — 8 out of 10 startups are still hiring. Deal time our recent guest Qonto buys former guest Penta and there was more in a B2B neobank deal week. Even Allianz had to learn, that one can not buy fintech success and there is more news on Wirecard.

We will also bombard you with funding data on Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, as well as global numbers. Keep in mind you can read all our news on our blog https://medium.com/@startuprad_io/this-month-in-german-swiss-and-austrian-gsa-startups-summer-2022-wrap-up-603e2c1939ae

Top News

Celonis Secures 1 bn US$ Funding

Celonis remains a success story with a 400 million Series D extension and a 600 mn US$ credit facility, at a valuation of nearly 13 bn US$. They are cementing their spot as Germany’s most valuable startup as well as its only decacorn. They do process mining and help to identify unrealized efficiencies. Right now, they’re helping with supply chain issues, for example.

Despite Market Conditions, WeFox Closes 400 m US$ Funding

Wefox, the Berlin-based insurtech, closes USD 400 million Series D round at 4.5 bn Dollar valuation

One Former Guest Has to File for Insolvency

• German crypto startup Nuri had a streak of bad luck. First, they announce to cut almost 20% of their headcount, then millions of their client’s money is frozen with Celsius and now a blog claimed it all hit during fundraising
• Eventually followed by an insolvency filing https://medium.com/startuprad-io/berlin-based-crypto-bank-nuri-formerly-known-as-bitwala-with-500-000-b4953e15dbfa
• Berlin-based crypto neoborker Nuri had to file for insolvency. Now the insolvency administrator says there are parties interested in buying the company

Neobrokers Facing Headwinds

• Neobrokers close to the edge: No good news from the SEC report on the poster child of all neo-brokers. Unfortunately, there is no report for Germany mentioning e.g. Trade Republic
• Robinhood almost imploded during GameStop meme stock chaos — TechCrunch
• Bankman-Fried’s FTX Is Seeking a Path to Buy Robinhood — BloombergWhat does this mean for BitPanda, Trade Republic, Scalable Capital, and N26? Do they also need to look for a strategic buyer rather than an IPO?

B2B Neobanks Had a pretty big Deal Week

Qonto Announces Plan to Acquire Penta https://buff.ly/3zwPCI3 as we have predicted two weeks before https://buff.ly/3zxUSeH we have extensive coverage of Penta from the past linked in the article, as well as an interview with Qonto’s head of Germany. Also Kontist was selling itself at a pretty hefty discount https://buff.ly/3c9pmuF

Viability of Quick Delivery Business Model still Questioned

• After only one year: Gorillas is closing shop in Belgium. Efarmz is taking over parts
• Gorillas wants to save itself with advertising from consumers and food giants of the world, the producer of the products they are delivering every day
• More signs of the current economic environment for startups: Munich-based quick delivery startup arive delivers tech gadgets and lifestyle products. They just had...

Executive Summary

Kenjo is Germany’s rising HR Tech star. They are the main competitor of Personio but are more standardized with a larger potential customer base. Despite being very young, they have already customers across Europe and the US. They count amongst their early investors the co-founders of the unicorns Taxfix and Wefox. 

"Kenjo is the number one challenger of unicorn Personio"David Padilla, Co-Founder and CEO Kenjo

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“I thought always I was ending up in London, but then Julian Teicke — now the founder and CEO unicorn WeFox — called me up … .”David Padilla, Co-Founder and CEO Kenjo

Blog Post

Find the blog post containing all links and our show notes here: https://medium.com/startuprad-io/meet-germanys-effortless-all-in-one-hr-software-startup-kenjo-aaa68161aba3 

Executive Summary

BYWAYS is a SaaS tool, which connects warehouses, clients, and logistic companies to order transportation at the time and date needed, like a Calendly for logistics. They already have ASOS, Maersk, and Sennder amongst their clients.

"You can imagine our tool as a kind of a calendar app, where the customer can book transportation for a desired date and time."Alexander Palffy, Co-Founder, and MD of BYWAYS 

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Blog Post, Links and Further Readings

Find all the links on our blog https://medium.com/@startuprad_io/meet-byways-the-startup-of-sennders-former-head-of-product-and-they-have-the-us-in-sight-394d321d7c29 

Starwars fans may remember that death star was destroyed due to a data leak.Mirko Ross, Founder and CEO ASVIN, Podcaster Hackwerk

Executive Summary

We interview Mirko, CEO of Asvin a cybersecurity startup. During the interview, we touch on data leaks in Star Wars, vulnerabilities in IoT, IoT devices, software, supply chains, and even in space (think cube satellites). ASVIN provides many tools to uncover and fix these vulnerabilities. Mirko is also a cybersecurity podcaster at Hackwerk, which you can also hear on our internet radio station www.startup.radio.

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Botnet operators can take over millions of devices by simply scanning the internet and following up with a brute force attack.Mirko Ross, Founder and CEO ASVIN, Podcaster Hackwerk

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Find all Links and Show Notes on our Blog

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Executive Summary

Instigo is a multi-platform marketing tool, based in Vienna. Dror has been a marketing manager, working across multiple platforms. With this experience, he set out to create a platform that allows advertising frictionless, with consistent data across as many platforms as possible. They already made the first steps and convinced the first investors.

Managing marketing platforms across 6–7 platforms is very challenging. … We wanted to create a growth marketing tool for marketeers like us.Dror Hasman, Co-Founder 

Find all the links and show notes here: https://medium.com/@startuprad_io/instigo-started-on-its-way-to-be-the-one-ads-platform-to-rule-them-all-5228649504e5 

Executive Summary

French neobank unicorn Qonto announced their 486 m Euros in Series D funding at 4.4 bn Euro valuation in January 2022, with a global Who-is-Who of investors. 100 m Euros of this record funding will go into their expansion in the German market, competing with Penta, N26, Holvi, or Deutsche Bank’s Fyrst. So we talked to Torben Rabe Qonto’s Country Director for Germany about how they want to compete and reach their goal of 1 million customers by 2025.

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Learn more and find all links and show notes here: https://medium.com/@startuprad_io/learn-how-french-fintech-unicorn-qonto-wants-to-conquer-the-german-market-fdab1f1d3aa4

Welcome to This Month in German, Swiss, and Austrian (GSA) Startups in June 2022 by Startuprad.io. My co-host is again Chris from New York. This recording is sponsored by Invest-in-Hessen and Startupraven.com. It is in radio syndication with our very own station www.startup.radio, and our partner station IBGR.Network.

We recorded this new episode on Monday, June 27th, 2022. Keep in mind, that we will have a summer break and be back for you with another news episode on Labor Day, which is September 5th, 2022. In this episode, we will wrap up July, and August.

As always: All news not yet included here will be published in our next news episode in September.

We will also slightly change our publication schedule for this July and August, mostly going to one publication every two weeks. You can keep up to date with our Google Calendar for all publications.

Our highlights:

Startups in GSA also shedding headcount, including unicorns that recently raised money. All signs point towards them extending their runway, expecting a recession. Some startups face a challenging fundraising environment, but others like WeFox want to almost double their valuations. Also, Personio and Trade Republic raise additional funds.

In our “stay ahead of the curve” section, we have a lot of articles an entrepreneur should read to prepare for the potential downturn.

German economic minister Habeck is unveiling his new startup strategy, considering even a minimum investment in VC Funds for German insurers and pension funds.

The fast delivery startups seem to hit a wall and even formerly mighty Gorillas now explores strategic options.

Let’s talk startups: https://medium.com/@startuprad_io/this-month-in-german-swiss-and-austrian-gsa-startups-june-2022-2651b2b64fe

Management Summary

Germany has a coalition government in power. The coalition contract of the three governing parties “Koalitionsvertrag” wants to enable the recreational use of cannabis in Germany, during this term. Jakob and Benedikt give us an update on the timeline, expected market size, and how Canasativa wants to get a big share of this market. The brothers also expect the legalization in Germany to have a domino effect in the EU kicking off a round of legalization in other countries.

We expect legalization in Germany to be just the start for legalizing cannabis for recreational use in the European Union.Benedikt Sons Co-Founder and CEO of Cansativa

Our Enablers

Invest-in-Hessen

This show was made possible by Hessen Trade and Invest with their brand Invest-in-Hessen. You can learn more about them here (https://www.invest-in-hessen.com/). We also run a dedicated sub-podcast with all interviews and news in cooperation with them. Find it all here:

Tech Startups Germany

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We are building the leading retail platform for in Germany, as well as the leading B2B marketplace in cannabis.Benedikt Sons Co-Founder and CEO of Cansativa

Find all links and show notes here

Executive Summary

AlphaQ is a new fund of VC funds, headquartered in Berlin. They are not only raising money to invest in VC funds, but they also swap shares in existing VC funds for shares in their Fund of Funds. In our interview Stephan, the founding partner also elaborates on their investment strategy.

"Over the last years venture capital has outperformed most other investment classes, but now we see a correction in valuations." Stephan Heller, Founding Partner AlphaQ 

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"The goal of one billion is only the minimum size for us to list. Our earliest listing window is in 2026." Stephan Heller, Founding Partner AlphaQ 

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A startup’s journey can be a tough one, but it doesn’t have ́to feel like you’re alone on your quest! Invest in others’ success with us by joining our community of entrepreneurs who are building amazing things every day — no matter how big or small their ideas may seem at first glance.

The best way to find investors and cooperation partners for early-stage startups. Sign up here:

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Find all links and show notes on our blog post here: https://medium.com/@startuprad_io/meet-alpahaq-they-are-on-their-way-to-becoming-a-one-billion-euros-fund-of-vc-funds-1b182c1319cc

Executive Summary

Endosane is a new take on developing drugs. Endosane is a joint venture of a group of researchers (Prof. Leweke and Dr. Rohleder) and the Sanity Group. Their goal is to apply cannabinoid compounds to develop drugs for neurologic and psychiatric applications.

Our background is in neurology and psychiatry … we think this area has not received as much attention in drug development as it deserves.Max Narr, MD ENDOSANE 

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A startup’s journey can be a tough one, but it doesn’t have ́to feel like you’re alone on your quest! Invest in others’ success with us by joining our community of entrepreneurs who are building amazing things every day — no matter how big or small their ideas may seem at first glance.

The best way to find investors and cooperation partners for early-stage startups. Sign up here: startupraven.com

The Guest

In this interview, our guest ist Max Narr (https://www.linkedin.com/in/max-narr-6a3b2a18a), MD at Berlin-based health care startup Endosane (https://endosane.com/). He is also Chief Investment Officer of Sanity Group (https://sanitygroup.com/), which develops products out of the components of cannabis.

The Startup

Endosane (https://endosane.com/) is a joint venture of Sanity Group (https://sanitygroup.com/) and a group of researchers. Max says it is Sanity’s take on developing drugs, partly based on cannabis derivatives. Their drug development is advancing the research of Prof. Leweke and Dr. Rohleder on cannabinoids for medical use.

Sanity Group

Endosane has close ties (capital and personal wise) with Sanity Group. You can learn more about Finn Hänsel, the founder of Sanity Group, and his plans for the future in our interview with him here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1TXps03Uxzb8hv0KvOVIpN?si=b17a5f2f3cbe40a4  

Find all links and show notes on our blog: https://medium.com/@startuprad_io/endosane-brings-new-hope-for-patients-with-mental-health-conditions-7513dcfefa7b 

Highlights

Startups in Europe raises 28.2 bn US$ in Q1 2022, the 2nd highest quarterly number on record. ⇒ Is this a lagging indicator!

Related:

CB Insights wrote just a few days ago: https://news.crunchbase.com/news/eu-funding-slows-europe-investment-startups-russia-ukraine/

But the seed funnel for startup investments is declining.

Hot sectors are currently

· Fintech

· Deeptech

· Health

· AI & Data

Startups Generated in the first quarter of 2022 more than 50.000 jobs. There are 90% more job openings, with the largest openings currently in fintech, health and biotech.The Exclusive Report

A little note here: There was a glitch in the seed data – in the version we used for our YouTube recording. Please refer to the corrected numbers in the document below:

https://infogram.com/quarterly-report-q1-2022_europe-1h7g6k05mplwo2o?live

Find the complete blog post here: https://medium.com/@startuprad_io/pulse-of-the-european-startup-system-update-q1-2022-f3fe257e70d6

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A startup’s journey can be a tough one, but it doesn’t have to feel like you’re alone on your quest! Invest in others’ success with us by joining our community of entrepreneurs who are building amazing things every day — no matter how big or small their ideas may seem at first glance.

The best way to find investors and cooperation partners for early-stage startups. Sign up here:

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We want digital debt to be registered, issued, transferred and eventually traded on our infrastructure. Benedikt Schuppli, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of FQX

Executive Summary

FQX is a Zürich, Switzerland-based fintech with great aspirations. They want to digitize company debt and this digital debt to be registered, issued, transferred, and eventually traded on their infrastructure.

Promissory notes are known around the financial world. These instruments are fairly standardized. So, if you put this on a blockchain, you have an extremely powerful financing tool. Benedikt Schuppli, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of FQX

The Founder

This time we interview Benedikt Schuppli (https://www.linkedin.com/in/benedikt-schuppli/), a founder from Switzerland. He is the co-founder and co-CEO of FQX (https://fqx.ch/), a fintech startup from Switzerland offering electronic IOUs. Benedikt is a lawyer by training but took his first job after graduating with a Swiss fintech pioneer named Lykke as Chief Legal Officer. He there realized he wanted to be an entrepreneur and co-founded a smart contract startup called Lexon.

The Startup

FQX (https://fqx.ch/) is based in Zürich, Switzerland. Promissory notes, a version of IOUs is a stable of company funding in the German speaking area. Now with digitalization they get the ability to become much more widely used and listed on capital markets globally. A single issuance of promissory notes by one issuer is normally between 50-150 million Euros each. According to a recent statistic Q2 2021 alone saw the issuance of promissory notes worth 2,5 bn Euros in Germany, compared to 3,2 bn Euros in Q2 2020. Right now, they have a premium for not being tradable, but this is about to change with FQX.

Learn more here: We want digital debt to be registered, issued, transferred and eventually traded on our infrastructure. Benedikt Schuppli, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of FQX

Executive Summary

FQX is a Zürich, Switzerland-based fintech with great aspirations. They want to digitize company debt and this digital debt to be registered, issued, transferred, and eventually traded on their infrastructure.

Promissory notes are known around the financial world. These instruments are fairly standardized. So, if you put this on a blockchain, you have an extremely powerful financing tool. Benedikt Schuppli, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of FQX

The Founder

This time we interview Benedikt Schuppli (https://www.linkedin.com/in/benedikt-schuppli/), a founder from Switzerland. He is the co-founder and co-CEO of FQX (https://fqx.ch/), a fintech startup from Switzerland offering electronic IOUs. Benedikt is a lawyer by training but took his first job after graduating with a Swiss fintech pioneer named Lykke as Chief Legal Officer. He there realized he wanted to be an entrepreneur and co-founded a smart contract startup called Lexon.

The Startup

FQX (https://fqx.ch/) is based in Zürich, Switzerland. Promissory notes, a version of IOUs is a stable of company funding in the German speaking area. Now with digitalization they get the ability to become much more widely used and listed on capital markets globally. A single issuance of promissory notes by one issuer is normally between 50-150 million Euros each. According to a recent statistic Q2 2021 alone saw the issuance of promissory notes worth 2,5 bn Euros in Germany, compared to 3,2 bn Euros in Q2 2020. Right now, they have a premium for not being tradable, but this is about to change with FQX.

Learn more here:

Father’s Day Special Publication

We publish this interview — focusing on men’s health — as the second episode today for a very special reason. Today we celebrate Father’s Day in Germany (always on Ascension Day — also a public holiday in Germany).

So happy Father’s Day to all fathers out there!

We want to help increase men’s life expectancy. … Men are notoriously bad at doing preventative health measures. … This is where we want to be their digital companion. This is the vision we want to get to.Jens Nörthershäuser — Founder and Co-CEO Kranus Health 

Startupraven.com

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The best way to find investors and cooperation partners for early-stage startups. Sign up here:

Startup RavenWelcome! We know the time-consuming process of approaching investors and companies can be tedious, so we do it for you…startupraven.com

The Founder

Our guest today is Jens Nörthershäuser (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jensnoertershaeuser/), Founder and CEO of Kranus Health. He studied biochemical engineering in Karlsruhe at KIT (Karlsruhe Institute of Technology) and UCL in London. He holds an MBA from INSEAD, has been with McKinsey, Amazon and Palantir, as well as an ecommerce founder before starting Kranus Health.

We saw a big care gap. Drugs only solve the symptoms [of erectile dysfunction].  Jens Nörthershäuser — Founder and Co-CEO Kranus Health 

The Startup

Kranus Health was founded by four co-founders. The company is named after a Celtic god of fertility. Their first product is a digital health app, assisting in the treatment (including drugs and therapy) of erectile dysfunction. The app is available in Germany on prescription, which means they are reimbursed by health insurers.

The current focus of the treatment is that drugs only take care of the symptoms, which still can leave men with a loss of life quality or even depression. This is where they further assist patients.

There are also correlations between drug treatments with cardiovascular follow-up events e.g. heart attacks. Most patients in the past have mostly only received drug treatments and no overall health care (workouts, mental therapies, …). This is where Kranus Health comes in.

Kranus grew by more than 100% in 2021. They have more than 50 employees right now and plan to have more than 100 employees at the end of 2022.

Kranus Health Is Hiring

Learn more here:

CareersKranus Edera - The app on prescription that has been proven to help men with erection problems through a holistic…www.kranushealth.com

There is already great stuff happening in femtech, we want to start the same for men’s health.  Jens Nörthershäuser — Founder and Co-CEO Kranus Health 

Venture Capital Funding

The company has already raised more than 2 m US$ in funding. The early backers include Konstantin Mehl, known as the co-founder of foodora and CEO of Kaia Health, as well as Manuel Thurner, co-founder and CTO of Kaia Health. Invested are also A Round Capital, High-Tech Gründerfonds, and Venture Basecamp, as well as investor Ralph Müller.

Find all links and show notes here: