Starting a business in Germany can feel like standing at the edge of a dense forest. You know there’s a path through it — thousands of freelancers and founders have navigated it before you — but from where you’re standing, all you can see are trees.
Paperwork trees. Language-barrier trees. Do-I-even-know-what-I’m-doing? trees.
If you’re in that spot, AVGS Gründercoaching or founder coaching is like having a guide who hands you a map, points out the shortcuts, and walks with you through the tricky parts. It’s practical, it’s human, and, thanks to the AVGS career coaching voucher, it can be fully funded, meaning it’s free to you if you qualify.
This isn’t just about “business advice.” It’s about finding your footing as an entrepreneur, shaping your ideas, and building something that not only works but feels like you.
👉 What is AVGS coaching in Germany and how does it work?
What is AVGS Gründercoaching in Germany?
Gründercoaching, known in English as founder coaching, is a specialised form of business coaching designed for people who want to transition from employment (or unemployment) into self-employment. Through the AVGS voucher (Aktivierungs- und Vermittlungsgutschein), you can get access to structured, personalised coaching sessions that help you turn your business idea into a viable reality — free of charge.
It’s not a generic course or a stack of PDFs. It’s one-on-one coaching, tailored to your strengths, fears, and goals. Whether you’re building a small freelance business or aiming for a startup with a bigger vision, Gründercoaching gives you the tools and confidence to move forward.
How is this different from just Googling “how to start a business in Germany”?
The internet is full of advice, but most of it doesn’t apply to your unique situation — and none of it will hold you accountable when you get stuck or overwhelmed.
Gründercoaching offers something the internet can’t:
- Tailored clarity. A coach helps you sift through your ideas and prioritise what actually matters for your next step.
- Practical action. Instead of endlessly reading about what could work, you’ll have a plan for what will work for you.
- Confidence and accountability. Knowing someone is in your corner (and checking in on your progress) makes a world of difference.
What does AVGS Gründercoaching actually cover?
The topics vary depending on your needs, but typical sessions will include:
- Shaping your idea. What’s your value proposition? Why would people choose you?
- Business plan development. Your coach will help you draft a business plan that’s both practical and grant-ready.
- Financial strategy. You’ll look at pricing, projected costs, and what you’ll need to break even.
- Client acquisition. How will you find your first clients? What marketing channels make sense?
- Confidence building. Because starting a business isn’t just a technical challenge — it’s an emotional one.
Common challenges for new founders (and how coaching helps)
1. Idea overwhelm
Many people come to Fired Up with too many ideas. A coach can help you focus on the one or two that have real traction, and can be tested quickly.
2. Self-doubt
If you’ve spent years as an employee, thinking like a business owner can feel unnatural. Coaching helps you shift your mindset and see that you can create something of your own.
3. German bureaucracy
The system isn’t always intuitive, especially if you’re new to Germany. Coaches can explain the steps for things like registering your business, applying for the Gründungszuschuss, a startup grant provided by the Agentur für Arbeit (Germany’s employment agency), and setting up taxes.
Robyn’s story: From “I don’t know” to “I’m ready”
When Robyn was laid off from her long-time startup job, she didn’t know what to do next.
“I was ready to leave, but I didn’t have the courage to do it myself. Coaching gave me the space and support to realise that I could start my own business, and I didn’t have to figure it all out alone. Without that, I’d still be stuck in overthinking mode.”
Robyn used AVGS Gründercoaching to develop her business plan, test her first service offerings, and gain the confidence to apply for the Gründungszuschuss. Within three months, she went from “I’m not sure if I can do this” to preparing for her first launch.
Validating your business idea
One of the most valuable parts of Gründercoaching is learning how to test your idea before you pour time and money into it.
Your coach might help you run simple experiments — like reaching out to potential clients, offering a pilot version of your service, or researching your competition — so you can see what resonates. This approach helps you avoid the trap of “perfecting” something that hasn’t been validated yet.
How Gründercoaching supports your Gründungszuschuss application
If you’re planning to apply for the Gründungszuschuss (startup grant) you’ll need a business plan and realistic financial projections. Gründercoaching helps you prepare these documents with expert guidance — and ensures you can confidently present your idea to the Agentur für Arbeit.
Stephen, another Fired Up alum, says:
“Receiving Arbeitslosengeld, it seemed like a no-brainer to get AVGS coaching. I had someone helping me with the plan and preparing me for the next steps — and it made all the difference.”
The emotional side of starting a business
Starting your own venture isn’t just about forms and finances — it’s about identity. You’re moving from being an employee (with a clear role and structure) to someone fully in charge of their own career. That shift can bring up fears, doubts, and even imposter syndrome.
Founder coaching creates a space where you can acknowledge those feelings without judgment — and learn how to navigate them.
What’s the first step?
The first step is simple: ask for the AVGS voucher from your Jobcenter or Agentur für Arbeit. Connect with a coaching provider like Fired Up, who can guide you through everything from business concept to launch.
👉 Read our step-by-step guide to applying for an AVGS coaching voucher in Germany
Why Fired Up?
We don’t just give you templates or generic advice. We partner with you — exploring your goals, your values, and what kind of business would genuinely make you excited to get out of bed in the morning. Whether that’s freelancing, consulting, or building something bigger, we’re here for the whole journey.
Ready to start your business?
If you’re ready to explore self-employment with expert guidance — without paying a cent upfront — AVGS Gründercoaching in Germany is your gateway.
Start your founder journey with AVGS Gründercoaching:
