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The German Startup Awards are an event organized by the German Startup Association and will take place for the seventh time in 2026.
These awards honor individuals, not companies. The selection of winners focuses on personal stories, economic and social impact, and a flair for innovation. The winners serve as role models for the startup ecosystem.
“Our award winners demonstrate what the German startup ecosystem stands for: scientific excellence, social commitment, and entrepreneurial vision. They prove that Germany can do startups. And we are convinced that even more world-class ‘Made in Germany’ is possible if we reduce bureaucracy, mobilize capital, and promote entrepreneurship.” Verena Pausder, Chairwoman of the German Startup Association
About the award ceremony
Around 700 guests from business, politics, science, and the startup ecosystem gathered yesterday, May 21, 2026, at the Palais am Funkturm to celebrate successful startups.
The event was opened by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who emphasized the central role of startups in Germany's innovative capacity. He stated that our country must become "faster, simpler, and more digital." For this reason, he added, those who take risks daily as entrepreneurs should be given greater recognition.
24 startups were selected for the final.
From over 400 nominations, the jury has selected 24 outstanding individuals to compete for the coveted awards. They represent the diversity and dynamism of the German startup ecosystem and demonstrate the multifaceted nature of success today.
Applications were accepted in the following categories:
- Newcomer of the Year 2026
- Founder of the Year 2026
- Impact Entrepreneur of the Year 2026
- Investor of the Year 2026
Here you will find an overview of all the finalists.
And these are the winners
Newcomer of the Year 2026:
Ruth Bosse,
CEO & Founder, Ark Software GmbH
Newcomer of the Year 2026:
Christian Ninstel,
CEO & Founder, Droidrun
Founder of the Year 2026
Julie Lepique
CEO & Founder Femtasy
Founder of the Year 2026:
Dr. Jarek Kutylowski,
CEO & Founder of DeepL
Impact Entrepreneur of the Year 2026:
Pia Wülfing,
CEO & Founder, PINK against Breast Cancer GmbH
Impact Entrepreneur of the Year 2026
Ali Abderrahmane
CEO & Founder, JUHI GmbH
Investor of the Year 2026:
Judith Dada,
General Partner, Visionaries Club
Investor of the Year 2026:
Simon Schmincke,
General Partner, CREANDUM
Special Prize:
Awarded jointly with PwC Germany, this special prize recognizes individuals or organizations that have made outstanding contributions to the startup ecosystem. This year's winner is Prof. Dr. Ann-Kristin Achleitner. The professor at the TUM School of Management is one of the leading figures in the German startup and venture capital scene.
