
The German Entrepreneurial Index is a comprehensive tool that assesses the entrepreneurial spirit of Germany's regions. It's a ranking system that evaluates factors such as startup density, funding, and innovation.
The index is based on 12 key indicators that provide a detailed picture of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in each region. These indicators include startup density, funding, innovation, and more.
Germany's regions are diverse, and the index highlights the strengths and weaknesses of each area. For example, some regions excel in startup density, while others shine in funding.
Key Findings
Germany has seen a significant increase in early-stage entrepreneurial activity, with a record high of 7.6% in 2019. This is the highest percentage since 1999.
Men were found to be 9.5% TEA, while women were at 5.7%. The age of entrepreneurs also plays a role, with the 18-24 and 25-34 age categories having the highest TEA rates at 10.1% and 11.8% respectively.
Almost half of start-ups in Germany are founded by teams, with an average of 2.14 persons involved in each start-up. Migrants are also starting companies more frequently than nationals, with a TEA rate of 11.8% compared to 7.4% for German nationals.
The number one reason to become an entrepreneur in Germany is to continue family tradition, with 68% of respondents citing this as their primary motivation.
Half a Year Makes a Difference

It's amazing how quickly things can turn around, and that's exactly what's happening in the German economy. Just seven months ago, it was stuck in a two-year recession, with a huge investment gap and an economic model that was in need of a complete overhaul.
The economy has come a long way since then, with a €500bn infrastructure fiscal stimulus, a 'whatever it takes' spending promise for defence, small tax incentives for private investments, and a commitment by large corporates to step up investments. This is a significant change, and it's clear that the government is making an effort to boost the economy.
German businesses seem to be ignoring the risks of ongoing trade tensions, possible US tariffs, and a stronger euro, which could still have a big impact on the economy. However, the longer-term outlook continues to improve, and the Ifo index shows that optimism is on the rise.
The 'Made for Germany' initiative, which includes large corporates, has promised to invest €631bn over the next three years. While this sounds impressive, only €100bn of that sum will be new investments, and it remains to be seen whether these investments will really reach the economy and boost innovation.
You might enjoy: German Shepherd Whine
Statistics

Statistics are a great way to get a snapshot of a country's entrepreneurial landscape. Germany's total early-stage entrepreneurial activity (TEA) reached a record high of 7.6% in 2019, with men accounting for 9.5% and women 5.7%.
The age of entrepreneurs plays a significant role in Germany's entrepreneurial landscape, with the 18-24 and 25-34 age categories having the highest TEA rates of 10.1% and 11.8% respectively.
The majority of entrepreneurs in Germany start solo, with 52.9% of TEA-entrepreneurs founding alone. On average, 2.14 persons are involved in TEA-start-ups, indicating that many entrepreneurs are team players.
Interestingly, migrants in Germany are more likely to start companies than nationals, with a TEA rate of 11.8% compared to 7.4% for German nationals. In fact, every second migrant TEA-entrepreneur starts a business due to a lack of employment alternatives.
Here's a breakdown of the reasons why Germans become entrepreneurs:
- Continue family tradition: 68%
- Change the world: 44%
- Earn a living: 43%
- Increase income: 32%
These statistics highlight the complexities of entrepreneurship in Germany, but also suggest that there are opportunities for growth and development.
Report Overview
The 2019/2020 German National Report shows that total early-stage entrepreneurial activity (TEA) in Germany reached a new record high of 7.6% in 2019, with men making up 9.5% and women 5.7% of this percentage.
The report also highlights that migrants are starting companies more frequently than nationals, with a TEA rate of 11.8% compared to 7.4% for German nationals.
Germany's ranking in the GEM rankings is number 28 out of 33 among high-income countries, which may seem surprising given the high TEA percentage.
The two youngest groups have the highest TEA rates, with 10.1% for those in the 18-24 age category and 11.8% for those 25-34 years old, which is two and a half times more than the rate for those 55-64 years old.
Almost half of the TEA start-ups are founded by teams, with an average of 2.14 persons involved in the TEA-start-ups.
Here are some key reasons why people become entrepreneurs in Germany:
- Continue family tradition (68%)
- Wish to change the world (44%)
- Earn a living (43%)
- Increase income (32%)
The fear of failure would not prevent 63% of the Germans from becoming entrepreneurs, and 52.2% perceive positive opportunities to become an entrepreneur.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the IFO index for Germany?
The IFO index for Germany is a business climate indicator that measures the overall economic sentiment, with a score of 88.4 in June 2025 being the highest in nearly a year. This indicator is a key metric for understanding Germany's economic health.
What does IFO stand for in Germany?
IFO stands for Information and Forschung (research) in Germany, serving as a leading economic think-tank. It's known for its influential Ifo Business Climate Index, providing valuable insights into Germany's economic policy.
What is the ifo Business Climate Index September?
The ifo Business Climate Index fell to 85.4 points in September, marking the fourth consecutive decline. The current business situation is viewed less favorably, with a continued decline in outlook for the coming months.
Featured Images: pexels.com


