ESMT Berlin was founded in 2002 by 25 leading global companies with a shared ambition: to create an international business school that combines academic excellence with practical relevance.
Today, that founding vision continues to shape who we are. As an independent business school, we remain closely connected to business while advancing research, educating responsible leaders, and addressing the challenges facing organizations and society.
Why ESMT was founded
ESMT was established to strengthen management education and research in Germany and Europe while creating a business school with a global outlook.
From the beginning, our founders believed that business schools should do more than teach management—they should generate new knowledge, foster responsible leadership, and help organizations navigate an increasingly complex world.
That vision continues to guide our work today.
Why it still matters
Being founded by business continues to shape ESMT's approach.
It means our education, research, and partnerships remain connected to the realities of business while maintaining the independence and academic rigor expected of a leading international business school.
Our close collaboration with organizations helps ensure that our teaching addresses real-world challenges, our research informs practice, and our graduates are prepared to lead with confidence and responsibility.
Our founders
In 2002, 25 leading global companies and institutions came together to establish ESMT Berlin.
The ESMT Foundation
The ESMT Foundation supports the school's long-term development and helps strengthen the connection between academia, business, and society.
Working alongside ESMT's leadership, the foundation contributes to the school's strategic direction while preserving its founding vision of combining academic excellence with practical relevance.
