Start-ups in the spotlight of the EU

Start-ups are the focus of attention for the European Commission, which has presented a comprehensive strategy aimed at their development. The goal is for Europe to become a more attractive environment for the creation and development of global technology leaders. The initiative is part of the broader “Choose Europe” program. It aims to build a competitive and sustainable economy for the future.

Key focus: people and knowledge

Science and human capital are at the heart of the strategy. By promoting a pan-European approach to attracting and retaining talent, the Commission aims to strengthen the continent’s competitive advantages.

Start-ups are the engine of innovation – they create new jobs, generate investment, and reduce dependence on external markets. However, many entrepreneurs encounter difficulties when expanding their business within the EU – an obstacle that the new strategy aims to overcome.

Simplification and digitization

Among the key measures is the introduction of a simplified regulatory regime in areas such as tax and labor law, as well as insolvency. The idea is to reduce administrative burdens and costs for companies.

There are also plans to create a European Business Portfolio—a digital identity that will enable seamless communication between companies and public institutions across the EU.

Financing and investment

To facilitate access to capital, the EC is focusing on developing a more integrated European venture capital market and more active participation by institutional investors. The Savings and Investment Union initiative will unlock new opportunities for financing and supporting growth companies.

In addition, a fund will be set up under the European Innovation Council. It will aim to help high-tech companies overcome resource shortages.

“Unicorn Lab” and links with academia

An interesting part of the strategy is the creation of a so-called “Unicorn Lab” – a network of European centers that will connect universities and startup ecosystems. It will facilitate the transfer of knowledge and technology. It will offer licensing mechanisms, revenue sharing, and incentives for inventors and academic institutions.

Attracting talent and supporting entrepreneurs

To make Europe even more attractive to professionals, the “blue carpet” initiative has been launched. It includes incentives for entrepreneurship education, simplified tax treatment of stock options, and measures for more flexible cross-border employment.

Access to infrastructure and resources

The new strategy also aims to harmonize the conditions for access to scientific and technological infrastructure by introducing an Access Charter for industrial users, which will facilitate start-ups in their research and development activities.

What does this mean for business?

With this strategy, the European Commission is clearly showing that it views start-ups not just as part of the economy, but as a strategic factor for the future development of the continent. For entrepreneurs and investors, this is a signal that Europe is striving to create a more favorable, predictable, and competitive environment in which innovation can flourish.

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