bitmi - Bundesverband IT-Mittelstand e.V.

The Bundesverband IT-Mittelstand e. V. (BITMi) is the voice of the small and medium-sized IT industry in Germany. It represents the interests of more than 2,500 IT companies and pools the expertise of its members and affiliated associations. At the centre are the concerns of small and medium-sized enterprises: from innovative start-ups to established, predominantly owner-managed IT providers. BITMi combines political advocacy with professional exchange and support in day-to-day business.

Its concern is the digital sovereignty of Germany and Europe. The association advocates for business and public administration to be able to select, deploy and further develop digital technologies on their own terms. This includes strong domestic providers, free access to technology and framework conditions that enable innovation. In political discourse, BITMi campaigns for better financing options for growing IT companies, sovereignty-oriented public procurement and openness to technology. Through the European DIGITAL SME Alliance, it also brings the perspective of the German SME IT sector to the European level.

As a network, BITMi brings companies together with partners from business, politics and research. Events such as the Hauptstadtforum Digitalwirtschaft, the “Software Made in Germany” summit and the BITMi Breakfasts offer opportunities for contacts and collaboration as well as exchange on current developments. Working groups delve into topics such as artificial intelligence, IT security, IT law, skilled workers, sustainability and business development. Here, practical experience feeds into joint positions, knowledge resources and recommendations for action.

A further focus is on the visibility of SME IT expertise. With the “Software Made in Germany” and “Software Hosted in Germany” seals, as well as their European variants, BITMi helps companies communicate the origin of their software and hosting transparently. Complementary services such as ISO 9001 group certification, IT insurance and software escrow help members meet operational requirements and strengthen their competitiveness. The Code of Conduct for Sustainability and Digitalisation also provides a framework for responsible business conduct.

Through national and international projects, as well as exchange with universities and research institutions, BITMi supports the transfer of knowledge and technology into practice. At the same time, it raises public awareness of the achievements, opportunities and challenges of the SME IT sector. This creates a combination of advocacy, networking and practical services. BITMi thus creates the conditions under which small and medium-sized IT companies can grow, drive innovation and help shape the digital future of Germany and Europe.