Berlin Partner reports strong midyear results

Berlin, August 20, 2025 - Berlin’s economy is growing  – a welcome signal in a time shaped by change, challenges and uncertainty. Berlin Partner presented the latest figures at its midyear press conference, joined by Franziska Giffey, mayor and senator for economics, energy and public enterprises.

The city’s business development agency reported a robust first half of 2025 with an investment volume of €668 million from companies it supports. A clear majority – 76% – came from firms already established in the capital. Another 24% flowed into new business projects. The strongest contributions came from the healthcare industries (€218 million) and services (€165 million) clusters.

Berlin Partner also announced 163 successful projects and 48 new businesses, more than half of them from Germany. Internationally, the capital confirmed its pull as a city of opportunity, attracting companies from the United States, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Turkey. In total, the projects represent 5,129 jobs, including 2,502 secured and 2,627 newly created. Especially in safeguarding existing jobs, Berlin Partner plays an active role in supporting business stability and reducing workforce turnover.

The city’s startup ecosystem continued its dynamic growth. Berlin-based startups closed more financing rounds than any other location in Germany in the first half of 2025, with 132 deals – 34% of the national total. Venture capital investments reached €1.5 billion during this period, with FinTech and InsurTech founders leading the way. Together, they attracted €257 million, claiming a 57% market share and the top position nationwide.

Research and development told a more mixed story. The innovation volume of 56 projects supported by Berlin Partner – run by companies, universities and research institutions – totaled around €67 million, which is 31% lower than the previous year. This is a trend the agency says warrants close attention and active countermeasures.

Task Force USA

Despite encouraging local developments, Berlin’s business community cannot overlook the current and anticipated effects of U.S. policies under President Donald Trump. To jointly analyze these developments with business associations and companies – and to shape effective responses at the state level – the Senate Department for Economic Affairs has launched Task Force USA, with Berlin Partner playing a key role. Chaired by Economics Senator Franziska Giffey, the task force’s primary goal is to safeguard and deepen Berlin’s existing ties with American partners.

At the same time, Berlin Partner spent the first half of 2025 promoting the capital region on the global stage. The agency represented Berlin at trade fairs, pitch events, and delegation trips to key markets including the United States, Japan, and India. Its efforts focused on attracting international investors, securing skilled talent, and opening access to new markets. Delegations included representatives from Berlin-based companies, who were able to network and connect with potential clients, investors, stakeholders, and experts through tailored programs. The consistently positive feedback has reinforced Berlin Partner’s commitment to further expand and promote its International Service.

Berlin Partner CEO Dr. Stefan Franzke sums it up: “The steady project numbers confirm that Berlin remains highly attractive for companies and startups. Major innovation projects such as the Gene and Cell Therapy Center, Siemens Square, and the House of Finance and Tech show that Berlin continues to invest in the future. Despite a challenging environment, we remain in a strong position. Berlin’s strength lies in its diversified economy and its ability to turn change into opportunity.”

Turning change into opportunity is a model that Berlin has mastered.  How well local players will leverage this strength in the second half of 2025 remains to be seen  – but the outlook is promising.

© Berlin Partner | Photothek / Media Lab / Kira Hofmann