Factory Network Embarks on a New Chapter with New Leadership

Berlin, Sept. 11, 2025 – Berlin-based company Factory Network is taking a significant step in its corporate history: Stefan Krause is stepping into the role of CEO. Together with founder Udo Schloemer, Krause will drive the transformation of the company and usher in a new era defined by creativity, strategic foresight, and a bold vision for European talent.

Krause’s impressive background includes board memberships at BMW and Deutsche Bank, as well as launching electric car startups in both California and Germany. His ability to blend his experience in scaling businesses as well as financial and technological expertise makes him uniquely suited to lead the next phase of growth at Factory. In his new role, he will serve as a partner and co-creator of the ecosystem, shaping fresh ideas alongside tech, art, and music talents.

Formerly known as a startup hub, community, and launchpad for unicorns like SoundCloud, Trustpilot, and Gorillas, Factory is now realigning itself for the future. In the age of AI, this new direction is more vital than ever—when almost anything can be created by a machine in seconds, the questions of relevance, value, and meaning are called into question. Factory will provide the answer—a place where talent and great ideas come together to build what truly matters for the future.

New Vision: Talent at the Center

From now on, the company will consistently align its actions around talent—people with the courage to pursue big ideas, bridge disciplines, and drive meaningful progress. The new brand promise, “From Talent to Legend,” captures this journey from potential to lasting impact.

“With the unlimited possibilities of AI, the question today is no longer what we can technically create. The question is rather how we can create something sustainable and lasting from it. I see Factory as a community and a place where talents achieve just that,” says Stefan Krause, CEO of Factory.

This leadership change isn’t just about a personnel shift; it marks the start of a fresh strategic direction and vision. Building on its successful history, the company will begin sharing this new chapter with the public over the coming months. The clear goal of this new era is to reposition the innovation hub and create Europe’s answer to Silicon Valley.

Founder Udo Schloemer adds, “Europe doesn’t need more discussions; it needs bold execution. With Stefan Krause leading the way, we’re turning Factory into the place where disruption becomes reality: less talk, more projects that truly matter. With the help of artificial intelligence, we’re creating a platform where entrepreneurs can achieve great things, for a Europe that leads again, instead of playing catch-up.”

Photo credit: Patrycia Lukas

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