Berlin Pioneers App-Based Business Registration
© KfW
Starting a business in Berlin just got a whole lot easier. The German capital has become the first federal state to implement a completely digital registration process for new businesses, developed in partnership with state-owned development bank KfW.
According to information from KfW's press release, entrepreneurs can now handle both their trade registration (Gewerbeanmeldung) and tax registration with the finance office through a single digital process using the KfW Gründerplattform app. The streamlined procedure eliminates the previous dual-process system that required founders to deal with two separate authorities.
The new system works through an interactive questionnaire within the app. Founders answer questions about their business venture, and the app automatically generates the necessary forms for both trade and tax registration, bundled into one application. The data is then transmitted digitally to Berlin's administrative offices, and required fees can be paid immediately through Berlin's e-payment system integrated into the app.
"Startups are essential drivers of our competitiveness," explains Melanie Kehr, KfW board member responsible for domestic funding. "Through the fully digital founding process in Berlin, we're increasing the attractiveness of Germany as a business location for creative entrepreneurs while simultaneously promoting innovation and growth."
Berlin's Senator for Economic Affairs, Energy and Public Enterprises, Franziska Giffey, emphasized the pioneering role: "Fast, secure, and digital – as of today, founders in Berlin can register their company with just a few clicks via app." The new procedure is part of Berlin's Digital Business Service (DIWI), which aims to offer more than 300 individual administrative services for businesses by year-end.
The KfW Gründerplattform is a free platform that has already supported over 100,000 founders. While Berlin has been processing trade registrations digitally for years – with over 80 percent of registrations completed online in 2024 – the integration with tax registration through the app represents a significant advancement. The ultimate goal is to enable nationwide company formation within 24 hours.
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