Julia Grünthal of Grünthal Consulting
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© Christian Roder
Between Startups, Investment, and Networking: An Interview with Julia Grünthal
As the founder of Grünthal Consulting, Julia Grünthal supports startups, small and medium-sized businesses, and investors in their strategic growth and development processes. At the same time, she has been committed for many years to strengthening Saxony-Anhalt as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. In this interview, she discusses why successful startups need more than just good ideas and what role networks, financing, and the right people play in this process.
Julia, what makes a startup successful?
“For startups, success is less a matter of having the ‘perfect’ product on day one and more a matter of entrepreneurial maturity. […] A certain basic level of drive and curiosity is important, but ‘being an entrepreneur’ is a craft that can be learned. […] If you ask me what the decisive factor is, for me it’s ‘sparring.’ […] Successful teams or individual founders proactively seek out sparring partners or a network that’s already where they want to be.”
Funding and Investors: What Really Matters?
“Business angels invest in people, not in products. We need to feel that the founders believe in their vision. […] You should definitely have the courage to actively reach out to investors. Many founders wait too long because they think they have to be perfect already. That’s a mistake. It’s about starting the dialogue early, getting feedback, and putting yourself out there.”
Networks as a Key to Success: How Important Are the Right Connections?
“A network is essential—you can’t really do without one. […] If you don’t know anyone, here’s my tip: Find yourself an ‘event buddy.’ […] Good networking isn’t about ‘cold calling’—it’s about genuine interest. When you listen, you automatically build a foundation.”
Curious about more insights and Julia’s tips for founders and those interested in starting a business?
You can read the full interview in the latest issue of the Landvernetzen newsletter.
