According to a special analysis of the KfW Start‑up Monitor for “Der Spiegel”, younger people are more inclined toward self‑employment than older ones.
When asked, “Regardless of your current personal situation, if you could choose, would you rather be employed or self‑employed?” 72 % of the respondents aged 18‑29 said they would choose self‑employment. A further 24 % preferred being employed, and the remaining respondents did not favour either option. For those aged 30 and older, 65 % opted for self‑employment while 30 % leaned toward employment.
Among the 18‑ to 29‑year‑olds, the leading motivation for starting a business was the desire to become independent and realize themselves, a reason given by 43 %. A higher income prompted a quarter of the younger respondents. Twelve % cited their business idea as the main driver, nine % mentioned livelihood concerns, and eight % sought to advance their careers. The median amount invested by young adults is €5 000, slightly higher-€6 000-for older respondents.
The KfW Start‑up Monitor is conducted annually, and this special analysis reflects the average responses from business founders between 2020 and 2024.