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.

🔗 Useful Links:

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

• Work with Us: https://www.startuprad.io/become-a-partner

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#Hashtags: #StartupNews #GermanStartups #SwissStartups #AustrianStartups #TechTrends #FundingNews #AIInnovation #DeepTech #VentureCapital #EuropeanStartups

In this must-listen episode of Startuprad.io, we bring you an insightful conversation with Nobel Laureate and former U.S. Secretary of Energy, Professor Steven Chu. As a leading authority in renewable energy, nuclear power, and innovative startups, Chu shares his expert insights on the challenges and opportunities in the evolving energy landscape. This episode is a deep dive into the future of energy, covering everything from small modular reactors to the critical role of energy storage technologies.

1. Nuclear Energy Challenges
   Professor Chu explores the difficulties of constructing large nuclear reactors, emphasizing budgetary constraints and project delays.

2. The Potential of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
   Chu advocates for SMRs as a safer, more scalable alternative to traditional nuclear reactors. He explains how SMRs can benefit from mass production techniques, similar to those in the automotive industry, to drive down costs and enhance safety.

3. Geopolitical Impact of Nuclear Energy
   In light of current global tensions, Chu highlights the strategic importance of nuclear energy in reducing dependence on foreign energy sources, particularly Russian gas.

4. Germany’s Nuclear Phase-Out
   The episode examines Germany’s decision to phase out nuclear power and its potential repercussions on energy-intensive industries. Chu offers his perspective on whether reactivating nuclear plants or adopting new technologies could support Germany’s future energy needs.

5. Comparing U.S. and European Green Startups
   Chu compares the progress of green startups in the U.S. and Europe, highlighting the success of solar energy in Germany and the challenges faced by U.S. companies despite recent policy efforts like the Inflation Reduction Act.

6. Importance of Energy Storage
   As renewable energy sources like solar and wind continue to grow, Chu emphasizes the crucial role of advanced energy storage technologies. He discusses current limitations and explores potential solutions to support higher percentages of renewable energy in the grid.

7. Personal Energy Choices
   Chu shares his own energy consumption decisions, including the potential installation of solar panels and the maintenance of an older, fuel-efficient car. These personal insights offer a relatable perspective on sustainable living and energy efficiency.

8. Success Strategies for Energy Startups
   Chu discusses the importance of large investments and strategic collaboration between startups and established companies. He provides actionable advice for energy startups looking to scale their operations and significantly impact carbon emissions.

If you found this episode insightful, please follow Startuprad.io on Spotify, leave a rating, and share this episode with your network. Don’t forget to hit the notification bell so you never miss an update on our latest episodes.

Links:

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

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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:

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

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• Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/startupradio

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

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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Welcome to our May 2024 wrap-up, delivering vital news from the startup and tech entrepreneurship scenes in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland—all in 30 minutes or less! 🎧

Join Chris from New York City and Joe from Frankfurt as they bring you the latest updates in the GSA region. Due to Whit Monday and travel plans, this news cut is from May 16th. Any news not covered today will be included in our next wrap-up.

#### Schedule:

- Next Episode: June 27th

- Summer Wrap-Up: September 2nd (Labor Day)

We'll have a lighter summer program, possibly with more frequent updates, based on listener requests.

#### Highlights:

The startup scene is roaring back in GSA, with large investments and early-stage innovations. Grab a drink and a snack—this episode is packed with positive news and is longer than usual.

- New VC Funds Raised: Over $7.5 billion

- Germany's Air Taxi Dilemma: Lilium and Volocopter are at a crossroads, with France offering subsidies while Germany debates state support.

- Amazon's €7.8 Billion Investment: Development of a purely European cloud storage infrastructure in Brandenburg.

- WeFox Challenges: Valuation setbacks amid growth challenges.

- Alzheimer's Research Boost: Takeda and AC Immune's $2 billion partnership.

- Biontech's Resilience: Despite Q1 losses, Biontech advances its oncology pipeline and prepares for a renewed push in COVID vaccine demand.

For detailed news and updates, visit our [blog](https://startuprad.io/blog) with all the latest stories. Interested in collaborations or advertising opportunities? [Storefront](https://workspace.passionfroot.me/startupradio).

Don't forget to subscribe on Spotify and Apple Podcasts to stay updated with the latest news from the GSA startup scene!

---

Detailed Topics:

1. Will German Air Taxis Fly?

Germany debates support for air taxi startups Lilium and Volocopter, while France offers subsidies. Lilium is in advanced talks with the French government for expansion plans and potential financial aid. [Read more](https://buff.ly/3UBNCHS).

2. Amazon's Investment in Brandenburg:

Amazon's €7.8 billion investment in Brandenburg to develop purely European storage capacities highlights its commitment to data sovereignty. [Read more](https://buff.ly/3V1PJpN).

3. WeFox Valuation Takes a Hit:

WeFox faces valuation woes amid growth challenges, impacting its once promising trajectory in insurtech. [Read more](https://buff.ly/3UIByES).

4. Alzheimer's Research Collaboration:

Takeda teams up with Swiss firm AC Immune in a deal potentially exceeding $2 billion to fight Alzheimer's. [Read more](https://buff.ly/4dJN5wk).

5. Biontech's Oncology Advances:

Despite significant Q1 losses, Biontech continues to advance its oncology pipeline and prepares for a renewed push in COVID vaccine demand. [Read more](https://buff.ly/3wDhn33).

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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

https://medium.com/startuprad-io/this-month-in-german-swiss-and-austrian-gsa-startups-march-april-bb97d8243696

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.

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.

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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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:

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

In this episode of Startuprad.io, host Jörn "Joe" Menninger and guest Thomas Kösters of DEEP Ecosystems explore the rise of spinoff companies, mainly from academic institutions. They discuss the significant impact of public investment in high-tech and hardware sectors, the challenges of tech transfer, and the role of entities like the EIC accelerator in supporting European spinoffs. The episode also covers the funding landscape, the "valley of death" for deep tech startups, and examples of successful spinoffs like BioNTech, underscoring the importance of building effective university knowledge transfer offices to commercialize research.

We are always sharing new resources with you. Find all of our options below. We want to make sure that we provide what's best for your growing team, so please take a look at these additional ways in which we can help! https://linktr.ee/startupradio

A startup's journey can be challenging, but you don't have ́to feel alone on your quest! Invest in others' success with us by joining our community of entrepreneurs who build amazing things every day—no matter how big or small their ideas may seem at first glance. https://startupraven.com/

Welcome back to another compelling episode of Startuprad.io, the podcast dedicated to unraveling the dynamic world of startups and their ecosystems. I'm your host, Jörn "Joe" Menninger, and today we're diving deep into the universe of academic spin-offs and their increasingly pivotal role in pushing the boundaries of innovation and technology. In this episode titled "Deep Ecosystem Spinoffs," we're thrilled to have an expert in the field, Thomas Kösters, MD at DEEP Ecosystems, to shed light on the fascinating surge of spinoff funding and the evolution of public investments towards high-tech and hardware opportunities. We'll explore why entities like NVIDIA in the U.S. and ASML in the Netherlands are spearheading growth and how centers such as the EIC accelerator are revolutionizing entrepreneurship in Europe. With startup ecosystems like "Startup Radio Factories" rising in Germany and other European nations, Thomas unpacks the mechanisms of financial support, intellectual property management, and the crucial role of tech transfer offices. We'll discuss the implications of universities owning the IP and how European cities strive for equitable funding opportunities. Join us as we delve into the stark realities of the "valley of death" for deep tech startups, the magnitude of academic spin-offs in HealthTech, and the strategies setting precedents for commercial success. We'll also touch on recent challenges that Switzerland and the UK face in Horizon funding and the strategic efforts in cities like Paris and Munich to lead in research funding. This episode covers the breadth of European innovation, from the spotlight on Cambridge as an exemplary model to the discussion of tech transfer offices like Cambridge Enterprise. And finally, a closer look at the journey from research to market, the culture clash with venture capital, and alternative pathways to traditional spin-off approaches.

https://medium.com/startuprad-io/rise-of-deep-tech-and-health-tech-startups-in-europe-66d3ab4f0e61