From Founder to Ecosystem Builder: Udo Schloemer’s Vision for the Future of Startups

Now, he’s thinking even bigger. In a recent episode of the Mittelstars podcast, Udo discusses his latest bold step: a €450M investment to create an entire city for startups.

A Different Approach to Innovation

Udo’s vision challenges traditional corporate structures, arguing that networks, not hierarchies, are the key to fostering meaningful innovation. “The best ideas don’t come from rigid organizations,” he explains. “They come from connected, ambitious communities.”

His approach has already led to one in five Berlin startups launching at Factory Network. With this next expansion, he’s working to scale that impact beyond individual companies – toward an entire ecosystem.

What’s Next?

In the podcast, Udo shares insights on:

• How Berlin can become Europe’s Silicon Valley
• Why he believes in community-driven innovation over traditional corporations
• How startup ecosystems can grow sustainably

Listen to the full episode now on all major podcast streaming platforms.

• YouTube

• Spotify

• Apple Podcasts

• Amazon Music