China Connect 12

Investing across Ecosystems - The Valley, China, Germany and the Future of Talent

Mit Erin Bargeld.
In this episode, we explore how investment, ecosystems, and talent development connect Germany, China, and global innovation hubs with investor and ecosystem builder Erin Bargeld. Born in China, raised in the US, and now based in Berlin, Erin shares insights from more than 15 years in the startup world, including early involvement with companies like Delivery Hero. We discuss what makes Berlin attractive for international founders and investors, how the city compares to China's speed and Silicon Valley's scale, and why strong networks, education, and the right regulatory environment are essential for a thriving ecosystem. The conversation also looks ahead to the future of work, highlighting why teams matter more than ideas, how AI is reshaping careers, and what skills the next generation of entrepreneurs will need to succeed.