Berlin's controversial training levy sparks backlash from entrepreneurs in 2028
Berlin's House of Representatives has approved a new training levy that will penalise businesses with at least ten employees if they fail to meet apprenticeship quotas. Starting in 2028, companies offering fewer training places than the national average of 4.6 percent will face financial consequences. The move has sparked criticism from local entrepreneurs, who argue the policy fails to address deeper issues in the job market. The law requires firms falling below the 4.6 percent training threshold to pay into a central fund. This levy is projected to raise around €75 million each year, though the exact number of affected businesses remains unclear.
Founders across Berlin have reacted with frustration. Moritz Kreppel of Urban Sports Club called the decision a case of the city 'punishing what it doesn't understand,' particularly regarding startup business models. Marius Meiners, co-founder of Peec AI, described hiring apprentices as 'absolutely unfeasible' due to his team's high workload and specialised roles.
Others, like Ralph Hage of Lap Coffee, see the levy as 'yet another misguided signal' from policymakers. His company prioritises automation and visual learning over traditional apprenticeships. Agnieszka Walorska of Mika argued that the real problem lies not with employers but with young people's declining interest in dual apprenticeships.
The policy aims to boost training opportunities, but critics claim it overlooks the practical challenges faced by modern businesses, especially in tech and innovation-driven sectors. The training levy will take effect in 2028, targeting companies that do not meet the federal apprenticeship benchmark. Affected firms must contribute to a fund, while many founders insist the policy misses the mark. The debate highlights tensions between traditional training models and the evolving needs of Berlin's business landscape.
