A lively start-up scene with close ties to industry has developed in Germany’s smallest federal state. It’s a great place to be, whether you are a customer, partner or investor. Companies such as Daimler, Airbus, the satellite manufacturer OHB, and globally operating logistics companies create the ideal climate for corporate start-ups. Government offices, banks, entrepreneurs and development agencies all work together like one big family. That’s what makes starting a new business in these two cities so easy.
So you have a great idea – now what? This is the question facing many would-be entrepreneurs. Legal aspects, tax, funding, technology – there are countless matters to be dealt with. “With the wind behind you, you can go much faster. In Bremen and Bremerhaven we work together to get new start-ups moving in the right direction,” says Kai Stührenberg from Bremeninvest. He knows that young entrepreneurs don’t want to spend their time trailing around government offices and filling in lengthy applications for grants. They just want to get started. Today, not tomorrow.
A new beginning with the "Starthaus"
And that’s where the Starthaus Bremen and Bremerhaven come in. Starthaus is the name of a start-up network in Bremen and Bremerhaven and a one-stop agency that provides consultancy services and assistance with funding and finance. Anyone who has a business idea can seek no-obligation advice, get help with applications and access to authorities, or be referred to experts on matters relating to starting a new business.
One of these experts is Kai Sander, head of the regional development department at the development bank for Bremen and Bremerhaven (Bremer Aufbau-Bank GmbH, or BAB). “The two things most entrepreneurs lack are funding and experience. We give them a helping hand with micro-credit and development loans, but passing on advice and information is equally important, and that’s why we have the Starthaus coaching programme (BRUT).” This is a one-year programme that provides support to new businesses. As well as financial assistance, new business owners receive coaching in business economics, business development, sales and business planning. Knowledge that is often more valuable than any amount of cash.
In addition to these programmes, entrepreneurs also receive other financial assistance, such as grants for new science and technology start-ups.
