Letter of Intent - dena Study on the Energy-Related Challenges Facing German Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises and Their Experiences Collaborating with Startups
Companies in the energy sector, manufacturing, and IT are primarily seeking solutions for digitalization, decarbonization, and efficiency improvements, while successful collaborations with startups are becoming increasingly important.
September 23, 2026
Source: Borderstep Institute for Innovation and Sustainability, a non-profit limited liability company
There is a high demand for external innovation drivers in the energy and climate-tech sectors. While specific needs vary by industry, they share a common core: digitalization, decarbonization, process integration, cost-effectiveness, and regulatory requirements.
Municipal utilities see a particular need for digital billing processes, innovative rates, flexibility, and decentralized supply models.
Metering point operators are particularly concerned with IT systems and interoperability, as well as networks and communication.
The manufacturing sector is seeking solutions for the electrification of production processes, reporting and compliance, as well as digital infrastructure and control logic.
Data centers see potential particularly in energy management and holistic optimization, waste heat utilization, and efficiency measures.
Collaboration with startups is also viewed overwhelmingly positively: 71% of companies with experience in such collaborations rate their partnerships as successful. Clearly defined goals and framework conditions, decision-making contacts, management support, and concrete economic added value are particularly important for success.
The study thus demonstrates that the need for innovation among small and medium-sized enterprises is high, with a particular demand for solutions that combine technological innovation with practical system integration and economic viability.
Author: Editorial Team, Borderstep Institute for Innovation and Sustainability, non-profit GmbH
