The fact that start-ups are a key driver of innovation and economic progress in Berlin was once again made clear at the Berlin Startup Pitch in the Rotes Rathaus (the seat of the Mayor of Belrin): 20 young companies that have completed the Berlin Startup Scholarship were given the opportunity to present their business ideas. The event brought together founders, business promoters and decision-makers on 24 March 2025. Berlin’s Governing Mayor Kai Wegner and Senator for Economic Affairs Franziska Giffey emphasised the importance of startups for the future of the capital in their speeches.

The BHT Startup Hub of the Berlin University of Applied Sciences (BHT) was also represented by two of its alumni teams: Maluma presented an AI-supported educational platform for primary schools that is designed to promote individualised learning and relieve the burden on teachers. U Impact presented a solution for sustainable investing that combines generative AI and insights from behavioural science to provide targeted support for investors.

During their time in the Berlin Startup Scholarship, both teams received intensive support from the BHT Startup Hub – from business model development and strategic planning to the preparation of their pitch presentations.

The Berlin Startup Scholarship is financed by the European Social Fund (ESF) and the State of Berlin and offers founders not only financial support but also coaching and access to networks to accompany innovative business ideas from the concept phase to market maturity.