„The funding story is an old story, but for us regulations (e.g. GDPR) is more interesting“, answers Marco Rodzynek. For him NOAH is not just a two day conference, but rather follows an always-on approach. Marco is asking Peter Altmaier to continue the dialogue after the conference. In the following discussion it becomes clear, that it’s not so easy for the VC scene to stay in contact. Altmaier denies to enter a Whatsapp group as he still relies on SMS and points out that he has long ahead scheduld meetings – but is willing to continue the dialogue.

Klaus Hommels and Marco Rodzynek are „offering all the support“ they can and show interest to follow-up meeting with Altmaier and politicians.

Paul Knecht

Altmaier asks, why so many platforms are founded by Americans? European platforms on the other hand were either not successful or were overtaken. The problem he sees is that many European platforms are focused on European or even national markets – but Americans think worldwide. "And I can only encourage you to always think big and worldwide”, states Altmaier. Hommels mentions different examples of European companies like HelloFresh or Delivery Hero – but Altmaier disagrees on them. „Are those companies making business in the US or India? No, they don’t.“

„We have a lot of money to fund startups in the early stage, but then when the companies are growing and they need €60m, €80m or €100 million – then we do have a problem and many companies are moving to the United States.“
Altmaier states that a huge German funds could not be raised with state money. "We have to use the private money that is floating around." The challenge is to keep the companies looking for bigger financing in Europe.

Dr. Diana Mantel