From Journeys to Ventures: About Migrant Entrepreneurship

Seminar

Samstag, 11. Oktober 2025 | 14:00 bis 15:00 Uhr | Klassenzimmer

ReferentInnen: Vanusch Walk, Bundesverband Deutsche Startups e.V.
Begoña de la Marta, Frauenalia gUG
Ghazaleh Madani, CanChip GmbH
Dr. Eleonora Bulghadaryan, MeiCook

Moderation: Stefanie van Laak, Hangar Strausberg

Entrepreneurship thrives on diversity, resilience, and fresh perspectives – and few embody these qualities more strongly than migrant founders. This panel brings together inspiring people who will share their journeys of building businesses and taking action in Germany, shaped by the unique challenges and opportunities of migration.

Together, we will explore pressing questions at the intersection of migration and entrepreneurship:

  • How does Germany compare to other countries as a place to start a company?
  • What barriers do migrant founders face in areas like residency, permits, bureaucracy, or access to funding?
  • Which strengths and unique perspectives do migrant entrepreneurs contribute to the startup ecosystem?
  • And where do they find the motivation to keep going despite the hurdles?

Drawing on insights from reports such as the Migrant Founders Monitor and different lived experiences, panelists will reflect on both the advantages and obstacles of founding a business in Germany. We will also look at strategies for overcoming barriers, building networks, navigating fundraising, and making sense of Germany’s complex administrative systems.

This conversation will not only highlight the challenges but also celebrate the resourcefulness, creativity, and determination migrant founders bring to Germany’s entrepreneurial landscape. Whether you are an aspiring founder, an investor, or a policymaker, this panel offers valuable perspectives on how to build a more inclusive start-up ecosystem – and what it truly takes to succeed as a migrant entrepreneur.

You can bring your own questions and ideas - we have space for questions prepared and are excited to get into contact with you.

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