Today, the Federal Government announced Germany’s accession to the Europe Startup Nations Alliance (ESNA). ESNA was set up in 2021. On the basis of the EU Startup Nations Standards, the organisation aims to increase the competitiveness of startup ecosystems in European countries and improve Europe’s position as a startup continent.

Robert Habeck, Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, said:
"After Germany’s accession to ESNA, we will work together with our neighbours to further improve the business environment for startups in Europe. Startups are important drivers of innovation in almost all sectors. By strengthening their competitiveness, we also contribute to the digital and ecological transitions."

Dr Anna Christmann, Commissioner of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action for the Digital Economy and Startups, announced the accession in Paris today on the occasion of the VivaTech 2023 technology conference. Germany’s accession to ESNA is an important measure in the context of the national Startup Strategy, which was adopted by the Federal Government in summer 2022.

Germany Trade and Invest GmbH (GTAI), the foreign trade and investment agency of the Federal Republic of Germany, will accede on behalf of Germany. The organisation will contribute and build up its expertise in the field of startups. ESNA is creating a unique startup network within the EU and establishing a platform to exchange data on the ecosystems of the participating countries.