Berlin Sets New Investment Record
Berlin, July 15, 2026 – Germany's economy continues to navigate a period of structural transformation. While the national outlook remains mixed, Berlin is showing clear signs of momentum. According to Berlin Partner's newly released mid-year figures, the German capital continues to strengthen its position as one of Europe's leading business and innovation hubs despite a challenging national economic environment. During the first half of 2026, Berlin Partner supported investments totaling €1.4 billion in the capital – a record-breaking result and the strongest half-year performance in the organization's history. The figure represents an increase of 110% compared with the same period in 2025 and underscores the growing appeal of the Berlin-Brandenburg metropolitan region for domestic and international investors alike. That momentum is also reflected internationally. In the annual Global Best to Invest ranking published by Site Selection Magazin, the Berlin-Brandenburg metropolitan region ranks eighth worldwide, alongside global innovation centers such as London, Singapore, Seoul, Shanghai, Amsterdam, Melbourne and the Tokyo metropolitan area.
One of the strongest drivers behind this performance is Berlin's creative and digital economy. Together, these industries generate annual revenues of approximately €39.4 billion, accounting for around 15% of the city's total economic output. The sector is home to more than 12,600 companies employing approximately 145,000 people, making it one of Berlin’s defining growth industries. Digital transformation continues to accelerate this momentum. Recent investments – including the Google AI Center Berlin, the expansion of semiconductor equipment manufacturer ASML, the continued development of the Mercedes Digital Factory with new AI and humanoid robotics initiatives, and Siemens Energy’s new innovation center – highlight the confidence global technology leaders place in Berlin as a location for growth and innovation. Artificial intelligence is also becoming increasingly embedded in Berlin's broader business landscape. Around 40% of Berlin-based companies have already integrated AI tools into areas such as logistics, finance, human resources, customer service and IT operations, placing the capital well ahead of the national average.
While technological transformation is essential to maintaining international competitiveness, it also presents challenges for the labor market. In response, Berlin Partner has expanded its support for companies undergoing digital transformation while helping safeguard employment through its Talent Service. At the same time, the ai.berlin hub provides targeted guidance for companies looking to adopt and scale AI solutions Business development performance remained strong and broadly matched last year's results. In the first half of 2026, Berlin Partner supported 139 investment and business development projects, including 43 new business locations. More than half of these investments came from within Germany, while others were secured from the United States, China, Türkiye and other international markets. Collectively, the projects are expected to generate 1,774 new jobs and secure a further 1,145 existing positions, representing a total employment impact of 2,919 jobs Innovation activity also remained strong. A total of 41 innovation projects involving companies, universities and research institutions generated approximately €70 million in investment – an increase of around 4% compared with the previous year.
Berlin also continues to reinforce its position as one of Europe’s leading startup ecosystems. Today, the city's startups have a combined ecosystem value of approximately €169 billion. Home to 32 unicorns, Berlin ranks among the continent's most attractive locations for entrepreneurs and high-growth technology companies. FinTech remains the city’s strongest startup sector, with 268 companies. Internationally, Berlin ranks ninth worldwide, third in Western Europe, and first in Germany as a startup destination.
The first half of 2026 confirms what has long distinguished Berlin: a unique combination of innovative spirit, world-class talent, cutting-edge research and international appeal. These strengths continue to make the capital an attractive destination for businesses, entrepreneurs, investors and skilled professionals alike – benefiting not only Berlin and Brandenburg, but Germany’s economy as a whole.