Startup & Tech News from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, powered by Startuprad.io™, delivers fast, actionable English-language coverage of startup, innovation, and tech developments across the DACH region. Hosted by Joe Menninger, this show is your shortcut to understanding Europe’s most dynamic innovation hubs — from Berlin to Vienna, Munich to Zurich.
Each episode breaks down the most relevant startup funding rounds, policy shifts, and ecosystem trends — bringing you closer to the entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers shaping Central Europe’s tech landscape. Designed for founders, executives, and international audiences who need a sharp, data-backed snapshot of what’s happening in the heart of Europe’s innovation economy.
What you’ll hear:
• Startup funding and VC trends across Germany, Austria & Switzerland
• Unicorn tracking, exits, and early-stage investment news
• Fintech, deep tech, and greentech breakthroughs
• AI, SaaS, and manufacturing-tech innovation highlights
• Policy shifts and regulation from Berlin, Brussels, and Vienna
• M&A activity, IPOs, and European venture performance
Why it matters:
The DACH region — Germany, Austria, and Switzerland — accounts for nearly a third of Europe’s venture capital and houses global innovation leaders in AI, manufacturing, and finance. Understanding its startup dynamics is key to decoding Europe’s economic future.
Startup & Tech News is part of the Startuprad.io™ Network, a global top 0.5% startup podcast ecosystem featuring shows like European Startup Pulse, Blockchain Germany, FinTech Germany, Deep Tech Germany, and Security Sutra. Collectively, the network reaches more than one million annual listeners across podcast, YouTube, and radio platforms.
Whether you’re an investor tracking the next unicorn, a founder expanding into Europe, or a journalist seeking the pulse of continental innovation — this show gives you verified, English-language insight you can rely on.
Stay connected:
🌐 All shows → https://linktr.ee/startupradio
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📰 Blog & transcripts → https://www.startuprad.io/blog/
Startup & Tech News from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland — where Europe’s innovation stories meet global audiences.
All content for Startup & Tech News from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland by Startuprad.io™ is the property of Startuprad.io – Europe’s Startup & VC Podcast Network and is served directly from their servers
with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Startup & Tech News from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, powered by Startuprad.io™, delivers fast, actionable English-language coverage of startup, innovation, and tech developments across the DACH region. Hosted by Joe Menninger, this show is your shortcut to understanding Europe’s most dynamic innovation hubs — from Berlin to Vienna, Munich to Zurich.
Each episode breaks down the most relevant startup funding rounds, policy shifts, and ecosystem trends — bringing you closer to the entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers shaping Central Europe’s tech landscape. Designed for founders, executives, and international audiences who need a sharp, data-backed snapshot of what’s happening in the heart of Europe’s innovation economy.
What you’ll hear:
• Startup funding and VC trends across Germany, Austria & Switzerland
• Unicorn tracking, exits, and early-stage investment news
• Fintech, deep tech, and greentech breakthroughs
• AI, SaaS, and manufacturing-tech innovation highlights
• Policy shifts and regulation from Berlin, Brussels, and Vienna
• M&A activity, IPOs, and European venture performance
Why it matters:
The DACH region — Germany, Austria, and Switzerland — accounts for nearly a third of Europe’s venture capital and houses global innovation leaders in AI, manufacturing, and finance. Understanding its startup dynamics is key to decoding Europe’s economic future.
Startup & Tech News is part of the Startuprad.io™ Network, a global top 0.5% startup podcast ecosystem featuring shows like European Startup Pulse, Blockchain Germany, FinTech Germany, Deep Tech Germany, and Security Sutra. Collectively, the network reaches more than one million annual listeners across podcast, YouTube, and radio platforms.
Whether you’re an investor tracking the next unicorn, a founder expanding into Europe, or a journalist seeking the pulse of continental innovation — this show gives you verified, English-language insight you can rely on.
Stay connected:
🌐 All shows → https://linktr.ee/startupradio
💌 Weekly digest → https://startupradio.substack.com
📰 Blog & transcripts → https://www.startuprad.io/blog/
Startup & Tech News from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland — where Europe’s innovation stories meet global audiences.
🏁 The Deep Dive is here.Germany, Austria and Switzerland enter a new startup cycle where the headline isn’t “Who raised the biggest check?” but “Who’s building the most defensible foundation?” Hosts Jörn ‘Joe’ Menninger and Chris Fahrenbach break down October 2025’s most important stories in AI, fintech, venture capital, and climate tech.
🔎 What You’ll Learn
The €735 B 🇩🇪 Made for Germany plan and its impact on infrastructure, energy & innovation.
How Aleph Alpha’s CEO transition reshapes Europe’s AI landscape.
Why Sequoia and EQT Ventures are doubling down on the DACH region.
Major funding rounds from Nexus AI, Eco Robotics, DeskBird, and Cartos.
The rise of female founders in Munich and new hybrid-work innovation.
What BioNTech + CureVac means for Germany’s biotech future.
The shift toward defense and dual-use tech in Europe.
Which startups are pivoting or consolidating (Heidelberg Pharma, FanRight, Casablanca AI).
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🎙 About the Hosts
Jörn “Joe” Menninger, Founder & Editor-in-Chief of Startuprad.io (Frankfurt)
Chris Fahrenbach, Co-host & Global Analyst (Hanover / New York)
Together, they track the most important startup stories in the DACH ecosystem — AI, deep tech, fintech, and scale-up growth.
Enjoy the show? Follow, review, and share this episode with your team.
Blog: https://www.startuprad.io/post/this-month-in-dach-startups-october-2025-deep-dive
YouTube: https://youtu.be/tnZx20FpsqA
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What if Europe — not Silicon Valley — defined the future of AI?
In this October 2025 episode of Startuprad.io Startup News, hosts Jörn “Joe” Menninger and Chris Fahrenbach break down the latest stories shaping Europe’s AI Supercluster, led by DeepL, Black Forest Labs, and N8N.
From record climate tech funding to biotech breakthroughs and industrial AI, this episode uncovers how Germany, Austria, and Switzerland are transforming into the epicenter of smart, sovereign innovation.
💡 What You’ll Learn
How DeepL, N8N, and Black Forest Labs are driving Europe’s AI dominance
The €700M NPAL climate tech deal reshaping energy and solar adoption
Why Tubulis (€308M) puts Munich back on the biotech map
The rise of sovereign AI and Europe’s privacy-first infrastructure
Why startup governance and profitability are the new superpowers
Our Sponsor:
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🕒 Offer valid until December 10 th 2025 — protect your business before your data ends up for sale on the dark web.
NordStellar — Know what attackers know. Act first.
🎙 About the Hosts
Jörn “Joe” Menninger, Founder & Editor-in-Chief of Startuprad.io (Frankfurt)
Chris Fahrenbach, Co-host & Global Analyst (Hanover / New York)
Together, they track the most important startup stories in the DACH ecosystem — AI, deep tech, fintech, and scale-up growth.
Enjoy the show? Follow, review, and share this episode with your team.
Blog Post: https://www.startuprad.io/post/europe-ai-supercluster
Youtube Full Video: https://youtu.be/K-yL359uCls
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In this September 2025 wrap-up, hosts Jörn “Joe” Menninger and Chris Fahrenbach break down the signals that actually matter for B2B operators: where capital is flowing, how deep tech is commercializing, and what shifting regulatory winds mean for product, go-to-market, and hiring. Expect fast, factual coverage of German startups, Swiss and Austrian scaleups, and the European cross-currents driving strategy in AI, climate, fintech, and SaaS.
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What you’ll learn in this episode:
VC & leadership: New funds in Germany and leadership changes at HTGF—what it telegraphs for seed/early stage in DACH.
Deep tech momentum: Germany’s first brain-inspired AI chip (testing abroad), plus quantum comms from QT Labs hitting a NASA spacecraft—why this matters for dual-use and AI hardware roadmaps.
Green tech storage: Austria’s salt-based, long-duration energy storage initiative and how it ties into grid integration economics.
Fintech shifts: Bitpanda revenue surge and Gen-Z finance via Bling + Finstep—who gains share next.
Market & regulation: Uber consolidates in Germany; Doctolib faces scrutiny—platform power, patient data, and policy risk in practice.
Deals & fundings: A slate of €10M–€100M+ rounds (Talon One, Q.ANT, MakerSite, Buena, and more), plus M&A (Scanbot SDK; Lemon Markets pending BaFin). SeptNews02_sound
🎙 Hosted by Jörn “Joe” Menninger (Founder & Editor-in-Chief, Startuprad.io) and Chris Fahrenbach (Co-Founder).
Enjoy the show? Follow, review, and share this episode with your team.
Blog Post: https://www.startuprad.io/post/this-month-in-german-swiss-and-austrian-startups-september-2025-deep-dive
Youtube Full Video: https://youtu.be/liuKkoOKy6c
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Primary keywords: German startups; DACH startup news; venture capital Germany; deep tech Europe; AI chip Germany; funding rounds Europe; B2B SaaS Europe.
Secondary keywords: quantum communications; green tech storage; fintech Europe; autonomous driving EU; ESG compliance EU; startup exits Germany; mobility startups Germany.
Berlin’s AI unicorn skyrocketed from $350M to $2.3B in valuation in just months.Meanwhile, fintech giant N26 faces its most severe governance crisis yet, as its co-founder CEO steps down after regulatory pressure. And Europe’s climate tech sector is booming with mega-funding rounds, including a record €825M hydrogen allocation.
This is your September 2025 Startup News from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland — the most important startup, VC, and tech developments you need to know as a founder, investor, or executive.
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What you’ll learn in this episode:– How Berlin’s N8N AI startup became a $2.3B unicorn in record time– Why N26 is in turmoil after a BaFin audit revealed compliance gaps– Europe’s hydrogen and climate tech surge led by Climeworks & Orange Bat– Insights on German recession signals and founder cost advantages in Dresden, Leipzig, Bremen– Policy shifts: remote driving pilots, defense innovation funding, and Bavaria unlocking VC capital– Why Austria is experiencing a founder wave and how Pinterest chose Zurich for its new AI hub
🎙 Hosted by Jörn “Joe” Menninger (Founder & Editor-in-Chief, Startuprad.io) and Chris Fahrenbach (Co-Founder).
👉 Whether you’re a startup founder, VC, or ecosystem builder, this episode gives you the context, numbers, and insights shaping Europe’s innovation economy.
Blog Post: https://www.startuprad.io/post/this-month-in-german-swiss-and-austrian-startups-september-2025-top-news
Youtube Full Video: https://youtu.be/KVt4N-OpGw8
✉️ Work with us: partnerships@startuprad.io
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Primary keywords: German startup news, AI startups, venture capital Germany, climate tech Europe, startup news DACH, SaaS Germany.
Secondary keywords: fintech crisis, German recession, European innovation council, autonomous driving Germany.
What if the next billion-dollar startup was brewing in Berlin, Munich, or Vienna right now? In this episode, we cover the game-changing deals, deep tech breakthroughs, and green innovation stories shaping the DACH startup scene in September 2025. Whether you’re a founder, VC, or ecosystem insider, this is your shortcut to staying ahead in Europe’s most dynamic market.
What You’ll Learn
🚀 The biggest venture capital raises across Germany, Austria & Switzerland
🧠 How neuromorphic AI chips and quantum comms are reshaping Europe’s deep tech frontier
💳 Fintech consolidation: Bitpanda’s growth and Bling’s youth finance push
🌱 Green tech milestones from Austria’s salt-based storage to EV wiring solutions
⚕️ Biotech breakthroughs and M&A exits shaping the next health tech wave
📊 Why AI-driven search analytics could disrupt marketing and SEO forever
From startup funding in Germany and European venture capital to deep tech AI hardware, fintech M&A, and green tech innovation, this episode is designed to rank high on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for founders and investors looking for cutting-edge insights.
Episode: DACH Startup News – Summer Wrap-Up 2025Host: Joern Menninger, Editor-in-Chief Startuprad.io
Blog Post: https://www.startuprad.io/post/dach-startup-news-july-and-august-2025-unicorn-surge-825m-hydrogen-win-fintech-shakeups
Youtube Full Video: https://youtu.be/cLO_niJ6wok
Timestamps:
00:00 – VC News (€30M+ funds)
02:30 – Deep Tech: brain chips & quantum comms
05:00 – Green Tech: energy storage & EV wiring
06:00 – Fintech: Bitpanda & Bling M&A
09:00 – AI & SaaS analytics
11:30 – Mobility & Auto1 Group
15:00 – Biotech & Health Tech
18:00 – Major fundraising deals (€100M+)
23:00 – M&A: Nect, Scanbot, Lemon Markets
25:30 – Ecosystem trivia + closing notes
✉️ Work with us: partnerships@startuprad.io
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Primary (in title + description): startup funding, German startups, venture capital Europe, deep tech startups, fintech Europe, green tech, AI search disruption.
Secondary (in body + show notes): AI in business, biotech Germany, startup exits.
Berlin’s AI just rocketed from $350M to $2.3B.At the same time, Switzerland locked in €825M hydrogen funding, and N26 faced its toughest governance test yet.
This is not Silicon Valley news. This is the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) reshaping startup dynamics — and it’s moving fast.
In this Startuprad.io Summer Wrap-Up 2025, we unpack:
– How Berlin’s open-source workflow AI became a unicorn and why enterprises are buying in now– Why EU hydrogen funding marks a generational climate infrastructure play for startups– What N26’s leadership shake-up under BaFin reveals about fintech governance in Europe– How dual-use pivots (like Lilium’s defense strategy) are becoming survival moves in tough funding markets– Why German tele-driving pilots and Bavarian endowment unlocks are more than policy headlines — they’re startup railways– The rise of Europe’s Stan index (Qwant + Ecosia) and Pinterest’s Zurich AI hub
🎙 Why listen?Because the future of European startups will be shaped at the intersection of technology, regulation, and capital flows. If you’re a founder, operator, or investor, this episode shows where the rails are being laid.
What you’ll learn:– The DACH edge in AI: community + open-source + enterprise focus– The real impact of hydrogen billions on startup runway– Fintech’s compliance-first reality check– The overlooked opportunity of dual-use & defense procurement– How to spot policy-driven founder opportunities in Europe
👉 If you learned something here, share this episode with a founder who needs it. Follow us on Spotify, subscribe on Apple, and check the blog for a full breakdown.
Episode: DACH Startup News – Summer Wrap-Up 2025Host: Joern Menninger, Editor-in-Chief Startuprad.io
Blog Post: https://www.startuprad.io/post/dach-startup-news-july-and-august-2025-unicorn-surge-825m-hydrogen-win-fintech-shakeups
Youtube Full Video: https://youtu.be/iV1Gzz0zy_k
Timestamps00:00 – Intro & why the roundup is split in 2 parts05:26 – Berlin AI rockets to $2.3B09:57 – Switzerland’s €825M hydrogen allocation11:23 – EIC selects 40 startups & Stan index launch14:27 – German economy dips into recession15:15 – Defense pivots & tele-driving pilots17:49 – Bavarian endowment unlock + Austrian founder wave20:11 – Pinterest opens Zurich AI hub & wrap-up
✉️ Work with us: partnerships@startuprad.io
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Primary (title, early description, timestamps): DACH startup news, Berlin AI automation, EU hydrogen funding, German startup ecosystem
Secondary (description + show notes): N26 governance, defense tech Europe, tele-driving Germany, Stan index, European AI hub, EIC startup funding
What happens when Germany creates its second decacorn and the EU drops €10B to scale startups? This month’s news episode breaks it all down — from funding explosions in deep tech to the future of biotech, fintech innovation, and defense AI. The DACH startup scene has never been this hot.
What You'll Learn
Why Helsing dethroned Celonis to become Germany’s top-valued startup
How ISA Aerospace, Scalable Capital, and Luma Care are fueling Europe’s unicorn pipeline
What the EU’s “Choose Europe” strategy means for startup growth, external funding, and capital access
Why non-dilutive biotech funding (like ITM SE’s €262.5M round) is reshaping molecular analysis and health innovation
Who's driving green innovation, eco-system growth, and scaleup strategies in the GSA region
Startup Scene Pulse
From Vienna to Zurich, from Berlin to Munich, this episode delivers exclusive insights into the GSA tech ecosystem, pre-seed funding trends, and scaleup strategies that define the European unicorn surge. Learn how resilience planning, fintech founders, and strategic growth capital are transforming the startup landscape in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
We highlight the rise of Swiss innovation, Austrian startups, and eco innovation models across the region. Explore how corporate growth meets AI-driven defense tech, how digital transformation strategy shapes cloud infrastructure, and what growth investing looks like in 2025.
If you're a founder aiming for vision planning, an investor tracking vc investment trends, or just love hearing execution stories from unicorn builders, this episode is your new go-to.
Now it is up to you!
Like what you hear? Tap follow on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review and share the episode with your founder friends, VC partners, and innovation strategists. Startuprad.io is your trusted voice for the DACH startup scene.
📢 Read the full blog post:
https://www.startuprad.io/blog/dach-startup-funding-2025-deep-tech-defense-and-decacorns
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This episode is perfect for listeners searching phrases like:
“Best startup podcast 2025”
“EU startup scale-up fund explained”
“How to grow SaaS in the DACH region”
“Fintech innovation in Germany”
“Tech entrepreneurs behind European unicorns”
Startups in the DACH region are heating up — from AI unicorns to VC mega-funds. In this monthly startup news roundup, we unpack the most important trends in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland’s tech ecosystem.
Learn how Parloa became Germany’s second unicorn of the year, how Quantum Systems secured €160M to dominate aerial AI, and how the EIB’s €70B initiative is reshaping venture capital in Europe. We also dive into Lyft’s FreeNow acquisition, biotech patent wars, the MiCA crypto license, and regulatory risks like the EU Data Act.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
What Parloa’s unicorn status reveals about AI-native SaaS
How Europe’s biggest VC fund is changing startup investment
Why fintechs like Vivid are chasing MiCA compliance
Top DACH soonicorns to watch in 2025
📱 Give Us Feedbackhttps://forms.gle/Qp53eVuc9P1RMqWj8
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🔗 Dive Deeper and Be Ahead Of The Curve!
DACH Startup Ecosystem 2025: The Ultimate Hubhttps://www.startuprad.io/post/dach-startup-ecosystem-2025-the-ultimate-hub
This Month in DACH Startups: May 2025 Startup News Wrap-Uphttps://www.startuprad.io/post/dach-startup-news-may-2025-unicorns-m-a-and-vc-surge
Top AI Startups in the DACH Region in 2025https://www.startuprad.io/post/top-ai-startups-in-the-dach-region-in-2025
🚦German Venture Capital in Q1 2025: Dealflow Quality Rises Amid Exit Anxiety and Fundraising Chillhttps://www.startuprad.io/post/german-venture-capital-in-q1-2025-dealflow-quality-rises-amid-exit-anxiety-and-fundraising-chill
This Month in DACH Startups: April 2025 Startup News Wrap-Uphttps://www.startuprad.io/post/this-month-in-dach-startups-april-2025-startup-news-wrap-up
Germany Startup Policy 2025: Strategies for Founders & Investorshttps://www.startuprad.io/post/startup-financing-in-2025-strategies-for-founders-investors
DACH Unicorn Tracker 2025: Trends, Funding, and Opportunitieshttps://www.startuprad.io/post/dach-unicorn-tracker-2025-trends-funding-and-opportunities-startuprad-io
🎧 Opening:
Why do Europe’s startups scale slower than their U.S. counterparts? In this raw, revealing episode, Andy Goldstein uncovers what’s really holding back the European venture capital scene—and what we can do about it.
💡 What You'll Learn:
How investor education can radically improve VC decision-making
Why German founders hesitate to internationalize—and how to fix it
The mindset shift European investors need to unlock global-scale success
How AI sales tools and founder conviction can drive early-stage growth
👤 Guest Spotlight:
Andy Goldstein, Managing Director Europe at VU Venture Partners and Co-Founder of the German Accelerator, is a serial entrepreneur, ecosystem builder, and innovation catalyst. With decades of experience across the U.S. and Europe, he’s reshaping how VCs invest—and how startups scale.
🎯 Give Us a Review:
Loved this episode? Help others discover it!Follow Startuprad.io, subscribe on Spotify & Apple Podcasts, and leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review. Share this with founders, VCs, and every entrepreneur you know.
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✅ Show Notes
Guest Name: Andy Goldstein, Managing Director Europe, VU Venture PartnersBlog Post: http://startuprad.io/post/the-transatlantic-investment-divide-why-europe-needs-a-new-vc-mindset
Relevant Resources:
VU Venture Partners
German Accelerator
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction to Andy’s journey from IBM to VC
06:00 – What’s broken in European VC mindsets
12:45 – How VU trains VCs through real investments
20:50 – Sales culture differences: Germany vs. U.S.
28:15 – Startup internationalization: Why Germany lags
35:30 – Traits of the top 1% of founders
42:00 – Final thoughts + podcast wrap-up
Sponsor
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Opening:
What does it really take for a green tech startup to secure venture funding in 2025? In this episode, we uncover what makes VCs say yes—and what founders consistently get wrong.
What You'll Learn:
How DACH green tech startups are redefining sustainability with scalable business models
Why AI is a tool—but not the product—in climate innovation
The power of vertical SaaS in navigating ESG compliance
What Hi Inov looks for in Series A funding rounds
Where Germany, Austria, and Switzerland stand in the race to net zero
Guest Spotlight:
Wolfgang Krause, Managing Partner at Hi Inov, shares exclusive insights from the 2025 Green Tech Software Mapping. He’s an expert in climate tech investment strategy, known for identifying scalable software ventures with deep vertical focus and strong ESG execution.
With regulatory pressure mounting and climate urgency at an all-time high, Wolfgang explains why economic viability beats greenwashing—and how real innovation means operationalizing sustainability across value chains.
Leave A Review:
Love what you’re hearing? Follow Startuprad.io, subscribe on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review. Sharing is scaling—help founders, VCs, and executives learn from this deep dive into the future of green tech.
📋 Show Notes
Guest Name: Wolfgang Krause, Managing Partner at Hi InovBlog Post: Green Tech Startups: Investing in the DACH Region’s Climate Innovation Boom
Relevant Resources:
Hi Inov Website – https://www.hiinov.com/
Deepki Vertical SaaS Platform – https://www.deepki.com/
🚀 This episode is brought to you by Vanta. Automate your SOC 2, ISO 27001, and GDPR compliance in weeks, not months. Learn more at vanta.com/startupradio
In April 2025, DACH startups raised over €1.3 billion—while one of Europe’s top fintechs spiraled into crisis. This isn’t just another news roundup. This is your investor-grade, startup-founder-relevant, executive-level briefing from the DACH region’s leading podcast.
What You'll Learn:
The real story behind Trade Republic’s outages and financial trust issues
How Amboss, Noxtua, and n8n are defining applied AI in health and devops
Where VCs are betting big in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland
Why Germany’s economy is stagnating, yet startup funding is booming
Guest Spotlight:This episode is hosted by Jörn “Joe” Menninger, the voice behind Startuprad.io and one of Europe’s leading startup podcasters. He breaks down news from Berlin, Munich, Vienna, and Zurich — so you don’t miss a beat.
We Love to Hear from You:Love data-backed startup insights? Then subscribe to Startuprad.io on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, leave a 5-star review, and share this episode with your co-founder or VC. We break the noise so you don’t have to.
Show Notes:
Host: Jörn Menninger, Editor-in-Chief at Startuprad.ioBlog Post: https://www.startuprad.io/post/april-2025-dach-startup-wrapupRelevant Resources:
Amboss Funding: Silicon Canals
Noxtua's AI push: TechCrunch
Trade Republic Trouble: Business Insider
Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro + Sponsor
03:10 – €1.3B Funding Summary
10:25 – Amboss, Noxtua, n8n: Applied AI Highlights
19:40 – Trade Republic Crisis Breakdown
27:50 – DACH VC Trends: First Momentum, Revent, Oakley
35:30 – Germany’s Economy: IFO + Forecasts
42:00 – Closing + What’s Coming in May
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Did Germany just promise an innovation revolution — while forgetting its startups? In today’s episode, we break down the 2025 SPD-CDU Coalition Agreement and its real implications for founders, investors, and the startup ecosystem.
What You'll Learn:
Why startups, venture capital, and growth companies are almost invisible in Germany’s national agenda
The hidden power of the “Finanzierungsvorbehalt”
(funding clause) that could stall innovation plans
What the proposed Gründungszeit could mean for future founders
How Germany risks falling behind France, Spain, and the Nordics in startup policy
The missed opportunity to build a true European NASDAQ alternative
Host:
Hosted by Joe Menninger, founder of Startuprad.io — one of Europe’s Top 3 startup podcasts and a trusted voice for tech founders and venture capitalists in DACH.
Joe unpacks critical policies, realistic outcomes, and strategic advice for anyone navigating Germany’s innovation economy.
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Episode Info
Host: Joe Menninger, Founder of Startuprad.io
Blog Post:Full Coalition Analysis for Founders and Investors (Replace with specific link if you have it.)
Relevant Resources:
Blog Post: Germany Startup Policy 2025: Strategies for Founders & Investors
Reuters: BioNTech's 0.5% GDP Impact
Tibi Initiative (France Growth Fund)
Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome & Context
02:50 – Innovation vs. Startup Support: The Big Gap
07:15 – Why “Gründungszeit” Could Matter
14:30 – Germany’s Risk of Losing Startup Momentum
22:00 – Strategic Advice for Founders and VCs
27:15 – Closing Thoughts: Building Beyond Berlin
Explore Europe’s most dynamic startup ecosystems with Startuprad.io's DACH Unicorn Tracker Spring 2025. From AI drones to climate tech, we break down Germany, Austria, and Switzerland’s unicorn landscape—covering the hottest startups, funding trends, and billion-euro growth stories.
🧠 Want the full breakdown, unicorn list, and bonus insights?
👉 Read the full blog post: startuprad.io/post/dach-unicorn-tracker-2025-trends-funding-and-opportunities-startuprad-io
🎯 In this episode:
What is DACH, and why it matters in global tech
Quantum Systems: The AI-powered defense unicorn
Logistics innovation with Forto & Sennder
Mobility shakeups: FlixBus, Tier, and Volocopter
Deep tech disruptors: Helsing & Agile Robots
Biotech volatility: ADC Therapeutics’ rise and fall
Green billionaires: Enpal, Climeworks, and 1.5 Degrees
Fintech giants N26, Trade Republic, Clark & more
Celonis, DeepL & the rise of B2B SaaS
Lessons from fallen unicorns: Wefox, Grover, Infarm, Solaris
This is your strategic edge—whether you're raising your first round, hunting unicorns, or scaling your own.
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📌 Startuprad.io – The Authority on DACH Startups
What does the future of banking really look like in 2025? In this episode, Paolo Sironi—renowned fintech expert, IBM researcher, and host of The Banker's Bookshelf—joins Startuprad.io to explore how AI is fundamentally reshaping the financial system.
We dive into the IBM 2025 Banking and Capital Markets Outlook, revealing the seismic shift ahead in how banks operate, serve customers, and manage risk.
Whether you're building a fintech startup, transforming a traditional bank, or investing in the future of finance—this conversation is packed with strategic insights and real-world takeaways.
💡 What You'll Discover:
The AI-Powered Bank: Why banks must move beyond automation and rethink everything from UX to risk frameworks.
SME Banking Reinvented: How AI is unlocking faster, smarter financing for small and medium-sized enterprises.
Wealth Management Evolved: From robo-advisors to personalized portfolios—how AI is democratizing access to smart investing.
Embedded Finance at Scale: Why the future of banking lives inside your favorite apps.
Navigating the Ethics of AI: Transparency, explainability, and regulation—what leaders need to prioritize now.
💬 Key Quotes:
“Every banker must be an AI risk manager.” – Paolo Sironi
“AI is not about the best technology, but the best way to use it.”
“Transparency is the foundation of trust in the AI-driven financial ecosystem.”
👤 Guest: Paolo Sironi
🌐 Host: Jörn "Joe" Menninger, Startuprad.io
📌 Based on: IBM’s 2025 Banking & Capital Markets Outlook
🎧 Related Episodes: Fintech Review 2024, AI in Banking 2023, Fintech Strategy & Transformation
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Subscribe to Startuprad.io on Apple Podcasts for world-class startup and fintech insights.
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Introduction
Dive into the DACH startup scene! This episode covers the latest trends in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.
Key Highlights
Fintech Evolution: Coorsair's IDNow acquisition (€300M) and the stablecoin surge to $226B highlight fintech's dynamism.
Venture Capital: Toma Bravo's €1.8B European fund signals investor interest, but "zombie VC" and insolvencies persist.
AI and Tech: Germany leads in AI research, but faces implementation challenges. Volocopter's acquisition and BioMed's cancer detection breakthrough showcase innovation.
Funding & Founders: Funding rounds like Tectal's (€52M) and Swiss female founder success demonstrate growth.
Legal & Regulatory: Legal battles (startup vs. SAP) and GDPR reviews (DeepSeek) highlight complexities.
Fintech: A Sector in Motion
Fintech sees Coorsair's IDNow acquisition and stablecoin growth. The ECB's digital Euro plans are also significant.
Venture Capital: Navigating the Landscape
Toma Bravo's fund shows investor confidence, but "zombie VC" and insolvencies pose challenges.
AI and Technology: Innovation
Germany's AI research faces implementation hurdles. Volocopter and BioMed demonstrate other tech advancements.
Startup Ecosystem: Challenges and Successes
Funding for companies like Tectile contrasts with layoffs and insolvencies. Acquisitions continue.
Regional Highlights
Germany: Strong AI research, but application lags.
Switzerland: Tight fintech VC, but female founders thrive.
Austria: Linz launches an AI cluster; the Austrian DAH Fund starts.
Conclusion
The DACH startup scene is dynamic, with innovation and challenges across sectors.
Call to Action
Subscribe to our podcast for DACH startup updates! Share your thoughts below.
All rights reserved - Startuprad.io™
💥 Finn's €1B raise, Lilium's shocking insolvency, and a new German government shaking things up!
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This month's highlights:
Massive funding rounds in car subscriptions and deep tech
The EVTOL industry's uncertain future
Political shifts impacting startups
Exclusive insights on AI, fintech, and more!
🔥 Subscribe now and stay ahead of the DACH startup curve!
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🚀 Tune in to Startuprad.io for an exclusive look into the dynamic world of German, Austrian, and Swiss startups! 🚀
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This episode is jam-packed with the latest news and insights from the DACH startup ecosystem. We'll explore the hottest trends, major acquisitions, and exciting funding rounds that are shaping the future of innovation in the region.
Here's what you'll discover:
🔥 Acquisition Frenzy:
Creative Dock Group acquires NFrontier: We'll break down Creative Dock Group's strategic acquisition of NFrontier, a Berlin-based hardware innovation company, and discuss how this move is bolstering their hardware development expertise.
Sona acquires TiteLift: Discover how Swiss cybersecurity firm Sona is strengthening its security offerings with the acquisition of German open-source software company TiteLift.
💰 Funding Fireworks:
Klukotopia Secures Multimillion-Dollar Funding: We'll explore how Berlin-based life science company Klukotopia is revolutionizing diabetes management with its innovative solutions, thanks to a significant funding round.
🚀 Industry Trends:
Life Science is Booming: We'll analyze the factors driving the growth of life science startups in Austria and highlight some of the most promising companies in this sector.
Hardware Innovation is Gaining Momentum: Discover how Germany's strong engineering and manufacturing tradition is fueling a thriving hardware innovation scene, with companies like NFrontier pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
This episode is perfect for:
Aspiring entrepreneurs seeking inspiration and guidance.
Investors looking for the next big thing in the DACH startup scene.
Startup enthusiasts and industry professionals who want to stay ahead of the curve.
Don't miss out on this exciting episode! Hit that play button and subscribe to Startuprad.io for more insights into the world of startups.
🚀 Welcome to the 10th Annual Fintech Review by Startuprad.io! This milestone episode dives deep into the groundbreaking trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the fintech industry in 2024. Whether you’re a startup founder, entrepreneur, or fintech enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights to navigate the ever-changing financial technology landscape.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
The Biggest Fintech Challenges in 2024
How startups are adapting to economic pressures, including high-interest rates and reduced funding opportunities.
Why operational efficiency and profitability are key to surviving a tough funding landscape.
The Role of AI and Machine Learning in Fintech
How AI-powered chatbots and predictive engagement are reshaping customer experiences.
Insights into credit scoring and operational automation powered by generative AI.
Navigating Regulatory Frameworks
The impact of the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) and European AI Act on fintech innovation.
Why compliance is not just a challenge but a driver of creativity and growth.
Competing with Traditional Financial Institutions
SME banking as the next major opportunity for fintech startups.
Collaborative strategies between startups and banks that are redefining the industry.
Decentralized Finance (DeFi) and Blockchain Applications
How tokenization of assets is transforming traditional financial models.
Real-world use cases of blockchain that increase transparency and reduce operational costs.
Featured Guests:
🎙️ Paolo Sironi – Global Research Leader in Banking and Financial Markets
"Regulation drives innovation when transparency and accountability are at the forefront."
🎙️ Frank Schwab – Co-Founder, Fintech Forum
"Simplicity is a competitive edge in a world full of overengineered solutions."
🎙️ Luca Frignani – CEO of Exaloan
"AI’s predictive engagement is revolutionizing how fintech companies connect with their customers."
Why Listen to This Episode?
This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to stay ahead in fintech. Whether you’re exploring strategies for your startup, considering new investment opportunities, or curious about the future of finance, this comprehensive review will provide actionable insights to help you succeed in 2024 and beyond.
Episode Highlights:
Practical strategies for startups to achieve profitability in challenging markets.
Predictions for AI's role in fintech innovation over the next decade.
The rising importance of SME banking and decentralized finance.
Dive into December 2024's Startup News Roundup, where we bring you the latest and greatest from the vibrant startup ecosystems of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. This episode is packed with insights, trends, and stories that every entrepreneur, investor, and startup enthusiast needs to hear.
What’s Inside:
Black Forest Lab’s Breakthrough: Learn how this Karlsruhe-based AI innovator reached a $1 billion valuation, catching Elon Musk’s attention.
Record-Breaking Fintech Round: Discover how Upvest secured €100 million to revolutionize API-powered investment solutions.
Survival Stories: Get the inside scoop on how Wefox navigated tough market conditions and what it means for Europe's insurtech landscape.
Key Trends Covered:
The rise of green tech startups tackling carbon emissions with innovative solutions.
AI startups reshaping industries and gaining massive funding in Europe.
Updates on cross-border startup collaborations and the EU's latest initiatives for scaling innovation.
Funding and Investment Highlights:
Over €2.5 billion in new startup funding secured this month alone.
Launch of new VC funds worth over €1 billion, fueling innovation in 2025.
Regional Spotlights:
Germany: Success stories from Munich to Berlin showcasing emerging unicorns.
Austria: Major investments in sustainable tech and agri-tech solutions.
Switzerland: Exciting biotech advancements, including a $300 million deal by Cimeio.
Why Listen?
Hosts Jörn “Joe” Menninger and Christian “Chris” Fahrenbach provide expert analysis, making complex trends accessible and actionable. Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking inspiration or an investor hunting for the next big opportunity, this episode has something for everyone.
Call to Action:
Don't miss out on the latest insights shaping the startup world! Subscribe to Startup News Roundup on Apple Podcasts and leave a review to share your thoughts. Join the conversation on social media and help us grow the startup community!
This month’s episode of Startuprad.io brings you the most compelling startup news and tech updates from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and across Europe. Whether you're a founder, an investor, or simply passionate about technology and entrepreneurship, this episode is packed with everything you need to stay informed and inspired.
From funding milestones to innovation highlights and the challenges startups are navigating, our podcast dives deep into the dynamic world of startups in the DACH region. Tune in to discover how the startup ecosystem is evolving, and gain valuable insights to stay ahead of the curve.
🚀 What We Cover in This Episode
1️⃣ Germany: Highs and Lows in the Startup Scene
Lilium, a pioneer in urban air mobility, faces insolvency due to funding shortfalls and regulatory delays.
Volocopter secures government support and appoints a new CFO to weather the challenges in the eVTOL industry.
Munich emerges as a European hub for investor education, driving innovation and funding expertise.
2️⃣ Austria: Big Wins in Entrepreneurship
Vienna-based Cubicure celebrates a €79M exit, marking a significant milestone in deep tech innovation.
Crypto unicorn Bitpanda plans a Frankfurt IPO, solidifying Austria’s position in the fintech ecosystem.
The launch of the Green Startup Center underscores Austria’s commitment to sustainable entrepreneurship.
3️⃣ Switzerland: Innovation and Resilience
Swiss startups shine with major investments in fintech and health tech, proving their global competitiveness.
4️⃣ European Tech Trends: Key Insights from Atomico’s Report
Europe now hosts over 35,000 early-stage startups, a fourfold increase in the last decade.
Cities like Berlin, Vienna, and London are climbing the ranks as global innovation leaders.
Europe’s funding growth rate surpasses the US and China, positioning the continent as a startup powerhouse.
Why You Should Listen
This episode offers actionable insights into the startup world—perfect for founders, investors, and professionals navigating the rapidly changing tech landscape. Stay informed about funding opportunities, innovation breakthroughs, and market trends shaping the future of entrepreneurship in Europe.
Links to Explore More
Full Blog Post: https://www.startuprad.io/blog/startup-news-november-2024-highlights-from-germany-austria-and-switzerland
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Startup & Tech News from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland by Startuprad.io™
Startup & Tech News from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, powered by Startuprad.io™, delivers fast, actionable English-language coverage of startup, innovation, and tech developments across the DACH region. Hosted by Joe Menninger, this show is your shortcut to understanding Europe’s most dynamic innovation hubs — from Berlin to Vienna, Munich to Zurich.
Each episode breaks down the most relevant startup funding rounds, policy shifts, and ecosystem trends — bringing you closer to the entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers shaping Central Europe’s tech landscape. Designed for founders, executives, and international audiences who need a sharp, data-backed snapshot of what’s happening in the heart of Europe’s innovation economy.
What you’ll hear:
• Startup funding and VC trends across Germany, Austria & Switzerland
• Unicorn tracking, exits, and early-stage investment news
• Fintech, deep tech, and greentech breakthroughs
• AI, SaaS, and manufacturing-tech innovation highlights
• Policy shifts and regulation from Berlin, Brussels, and Vienna
• M&A activity, IPOs, and European venture performance
Why it matters:
The DACH region — Germany, Austria, and Switzerland — accounts for nearly a third of Europe’s venture capital and houses global innovation leaders in AI, manufacturing, and finance. Understanding its startup dynamics is key to decoding Europe’s economic future.
Startup & Tech News is part of the Startuprad.io™ Network, a global top 0.5% startup podcast ecosystem featuring shows like European Startup Pulse, Blockchain Germany, FinTech Germany, Deep Tech Germany, and Security Sutra. Collectively, the network reaches more than one million annual listeners across podcast, YouTube, and radio platforms.
Whether you’re an investor tracking the next unicorn, a founder expanding into Europe, or a journalist seeking the pulse of continental innovation — this show gives you verified, English-language insight you can rely on.
Stay connected:
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Startup & Tech News from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland — where Europe’s innovation stories meet global audiences.
