10 things you should know before starting a business in Germany

Germany is one of the most stable and economically strongest countries in Europe – and a popular place for entrepreneurs from all over the world. But before you start your business here, there are some important things you should know. Some are surprising, others crucial.

In this article, you will learn the 10 most important basics for a successful start to self-employment in Germany – legally compliant, supported, and realistic.

1. Location is key

Germany is a federal state, which means that many support programs and requirements vary from state to state or region to region. What applies in Berlin may be different in Bavaria.

Tip: GRINNO helps you find the right programs for your location.

2. You often need more than just a good idea

You won't get funding, financing, or visas just for a creative idea. You need at least a rough plan: target audience, benefits, income, next steps.

GRINNO helps you structure these points in a simple way – without bureaucracy or technical jargon.

3. No legal form, no business

In Germany, you have to decide on a legal form for your business, for example:

• UG (limited liability)

• GmbH

• Sole proprietorship

• Freelancer

The legal form influences what funding you can receive – and how high your personal risk is.

4. Your residence status matters

If you are not from the EU, you will usually need a special residence permit for self-employment. To obtain this, you must demonstrate, among other things, that your project is economically viable.

GRINNO can show you the programs and structures you need for a successful application.

5. Many subsidies must be applied for in advance

You may not start your project before the application has been submitted.This applies, for example, to:

• Rent

• Purchases

• Personnel

• Starting the business itself

If you start too early, your funding may be rejected.

6. You will be assessed – but fairly

Whether it's a business plan, project description, or resume, many programs require documents that show you are prepared. But don't worry – no one expects perfection.

GRINNO helps you prepare the most important points in a targeted manner – in your language, step by step.

7. Paper is (still) important

Many processes in Germany are not yet fully digital. You will have to deal with forms, PDFs, stamps, and supporting documents.

That's why it's helpful to work in an organized and traceable manner from the very beginning.

8. There is a lot of help available – but you need to know where to find it

Germany offers many free consulting services, coaching programs, and information events for entrepreneurs. However, many of these are unknown or difficult to find, especially for people who don't speak German.

GRINNO also shows you consulting services tailored to your location and project.

9. Data protection is taken seriously

Your data and your idea are particularly protected in Germany. This also applies to GRINNO: Your information is analyzed pseudonymously, without registration or tracking.

10. You are not alone

Thousands of people from all over the world successfully start businesses in Germany every year – even without prior knowledge, capital, or perfect language skills. What counts is your idea and your will to implement it.

With GRINNO, you have a tool at your side that guides you safely and comprehensively through the jungle of funding options.

Conclusion

Starting a business in Germany is not a sure-fire success – but it is possible. With the right preparation, the right funding program, and a powerful digital tool like GRINNO at your side, you can get off to a solid and well-supported start.

Get started now – your first inquiry with GRINNO is free of charge.

No registration. No obligation. Just clarity.