Questions and answers on the topic of start-ups
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to frequently asked questions on the subject of self-employment, which we hope you will understand as just an introduction to the complex topic of setting up a business. We will be happy to answer further, individual questions in a personal meeting. Are you missing a topic? Then write to us at gruendungszentrum(at)hnee.de
Frequently asked questions...
Every start-up process is unique. A distinction is made between main and sideline start-ups. Possible steps are Identifying the business idea, market analysis, drawing up the business plan, selecting the legal form, applying for permits and licences, founding the company and others. Contact us for a free → consultation.
Funding programmes are constantly changing. We recommend using the → federal funding database for an initial search. There is also the free → funding consultation hour on the start-up platform. For highly innovative, technology-based projects/start-up ideas, for example, there is the → EXIST Business Start-up Grant. If you have any questions about this or other funding programmes, we will be happy to advise you.
In principle, we are not authorised to provide advice on tax law and can only make limited, generally applicable statements. Every start-up case/status/form of company is individual and has an impact on the taxes incurred. Common taxes that may be incurred are: income tax, trade tax, capital gains tax or VAT. You can find an initial overview on the → Start-up platform and in the → BMWK publications.
Visit the networking events organised by the → Business Plan Competition Berlin-Brandenburg for valuable contacts and support. The BPW also offers event formats that are freely accessible to everyone. All you need to do is register for free on the BPW website. Another free platform that we can recommend is the → Start-up Platform website.
We can also advise you on the topic of company succession. The processes and approaches for a company succession differ from those for a traditional start-up. The following steps, among others, must be taken into account: Analysing the company, defining the strategy, securing financing, clarifying legal and tax aspects, conducting negotiations, making contractual arrangements, planning the transition phase, communication and stakeholder management, implementation and monitoring.
Are you currently in the process of writing your business plan or have you already completed it? We at the HNEE Start-up Centre are happy to proofread it for you and take an experienced look at it. On the pages of the→ BPW and on the → Business Start-up Platform you will find templates and assistance for creating your business plan. Otherwise, feel free to ask us at any time.
Financing can be complex, but don't give up! Paths to self-employment include participation in start-up competitions, bootstrapping, family & friends, credits & loans, development loans, crowdfunding & crowdinvesting, venture capital, business angels, incubator and accelerator programmes, start-up grants and much more. Contact us for personalised advice on financing options.
Depending on what you want to protect, there are different options and approaches. There is → trade mark protection and the protection of → patents, utility models, trade marks and designs.
Further information can be found at the → German Patent and Trade Mark Office.
When choosing a location, factors such as accessibility, target group potential, rental costs, the competitive situation and any trade tax rates must be taken into account. In addition, we can discuss all the necessary issues relating to marketing and sales with you. This includes identifying the USP, analysing the market, competition and rivals, marketing mix, online marketing and other topics in this area.
For start-up projects, we can recommend the → Berlin-Brandenburg Business Plan Competition. Within three phases, a business plan of increasing scope is written and submitted. You will receive valuable feedback on your plan and can win prize money. We will be happy to help you with the conception and submission of your business plan.
Popular questions
You will find further start-up content on the following pages:
→ Working on a freelance basis
Are you interested in finding out more about setting up a company?
Then write us an e-mail or book an appointment. You can find us near the Stadtcampus and on the Waldcampus.