The hydrogen start-up scene is developing.
There are only a few hydrogen start-ups in Europe. Start-up activity has been increasing since 2018. However, it takes longer for hydrogen start-ups than usual in other sectors until their ideas are ready for the market and the first revenues can be generated. In NRW, the range of start-up activities is particularly high.
Cooperations between start-ups, companies and science are crucial for success.
The substitution of fossil fuels, the use of hydrogen as an industrial raw material, the use of fuel cells in vehicles – start-ups can make innovative contributions to all of these processes. To do so, they have to be integrated into the corresponding value chains. Corporate partners provide practical support and contribute knowledge and experience or get involved as investors. Also important for many start-ups is to work with scientific institutions.
No market (yet), No investors (yet).
Many start-ups invest a lot of time and effort with the issue of financing, which is difficult without an existing market for their products. Start-ups are looking for strategic, risk-taking investors and first customers to pilot, practice and further develop their solutions.
Innovative hydrogen technologies depend on risk-taking investors.
Technology and product development in the hydrogen sector requires a high level of capital investment. However, start-ups and financing partners still need to be brought together. Fast and straightforward capital providers are key to drive the industry forward.
