Where startups will win our hearts in 2025

Geopolitical tensions, economic shifts, regulatory changes, tech breakthroughs, and climate challenges are all unfolding at once.

Uncertainty brings higher costs, fiercer competition, and relentless pressure to adapt. The secret to thriving? Efficiency, strong networks, and a forward-thinking mindset. You need to demonstrate these qualities yourself and help your customers strengthen them, too. At Bloomhaus, we’re all about investing in game-changing solutions that drive efficiency, cut emissions, and accelerate sustainable business growth.

Emerging Opportunities in 2025

In an evolving landscape, innovation is the ultimate advantage. We’re particularly excited about:

• AI-powered vertical agents that fully automate processes and boost efficiency.
• Adaptive collaborative robots that enhance productivity in industries from logistics to manufacturing.
• Data management & infrastructure innovations that enable seamless data-driven decision-making, security, and scalability.
• Scalable solutions focused on cutting or capturing carbon emissions.

"In 2025, my focus remains on vertical AI agent solutions that drive efficiency, reduce costs, and transform industry-specific processes," says Pascal Stürchler, Co-Founder and CEO of Bloomhaus.

"The best opportunities lie in automated customer support, fraud detection, predictive maintenance, and supply chain optimization - where AI delivers real business value. Investing in AI solutions that balance innovation with transparency, compliance, and ethics is key to sustainable growth." The release of DeepSeek’s cost-effective r1 mode, also opens up the playing field for European startups, often facing funding constraints.

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Tim Schwichtenberg, Senior Investment Manager at Bloomhaus, highlights how AI is shaping robotics, empowering collaborative robots (cobots): “In manufacturing, it transforms how cobots are trained and operate. Inspired by generative AI, MIT has developed a method to translate heterogeneous training data into a shared “language” for large language models, enabling faster training of new skills. Cobots evolve into adaptive, connected systems thanks to embeddedvision, sensors, motion control, and AI. Once operationally in use, cobots will work alongside humans, unlocking new productivity levels.

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Marc Tesch, Co-Founder and Chairman emphasizes the increasing importance of data infrastructure: “In 2025, the shift toward advanced data management and infrastructure will be even more pronounced. AI-driven automation, enhanced security, and real-time scalability will redefine how organizations harness data for decision-making. However, technology alone is not enough - market fit is everything. "A great idea is just the beginning," says Marc Tesch.

"Startups that solve real business problems have the best chance to thrive and scale with investor support. Founders should focus on clear use cases and engage with real customers early. We’re looking for startups that bring meaningful value to large, overlooked industry niches beyond the mainstream."

"In addition to AI, robotics, and data advancements, decarbonization remains a critical focus," says Ines Najorka, Partner at Bloomhaus. "To make a real impact, we must leverage all available strategies, from mitigation to carbon capture. Startups with scalable, disruptive solutions in this space are my top priority in 2025."

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Scaling your Startup: A Rollercoaster You Shouldn’t Ride Alone

Even though startup valuations are expected to rebound in 2025 according to PitchBook, the challenges remain. Scaling a company is never easy - it's a rollercoaster ride that entrepreneurs shouldn’t do alone.

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At Bloomhaus, we believe in the power of strong networks and shared knowledge. Platforms that connect founders and offer structured support can be invaluable. One example is Founders2, a program launched in January 2025 that applies Verne Harnish’s "Scaling Up" methodology - a proven approach for navigating growth challenges. While there are many ways to scale effectively, here’s our hotlist for 2025:

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• Build strong fundamentals – Investors will be more selective.
• Monitor economic shifts and regulations – Tariffs and trade policies could impact also your supply chains and market access.
• Use RICE for tough decisions – Prioritize and focus on what is most effective by considering Reach × Impact × Confidence ÷ Effort.
• Prepare for longer exit timelines – Sustainable growth and adaptability will be key.
• Diversify your funding sources – Don’t rely on a single investor or funding method.
• Prioritize Intellectual Property (IP) protection – Strong patents and IP strategies boost investor confidence.
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In a world of uncertainty, the best startups will be the ones that stay focused, resilient, and adaptable. At Bloomhaus, we’re here to support visionary founders who embrace these principles and bring transformative solutions to life.

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Our advice? Trust your instincts, stay committed to your mission, and tackle challenges with a long-term perspective.

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