The European Commission has concluded its public consultation on the forthcoming EU Startup and Scaleup Strategy. During the 4 weeks of consultation open in the “Have your Say” portal, the exercise attracted 589 responses from stakeholders across 36 countries, with the highest participation from Belgium (115), the Netherlands (64), and Germany (64).
Based on a preliminary assessment, key areas highlighted by respondents include:
- Access to finance: calls for easier access to funding and simplified application processes.
- Regulatory and bureaucratic burdens: proposals to reduce red tape and facilitate cross-border operations.
- Access to markets: suggestions to improve startup participation in public procurement and IP transfer.
- Access to talent: need for better recruitment conditions and support for diverse entrepreneurs.
- Access to infrastructure and services: proposals to enhance access to research facilities, innovation hubs, and accelerators.
Startups, Research and Innovation Commissioner Ekaterina Zaharieva (pictured) said:
“The insights gathered from this consultation will inform our efforts to create a more supportive environment for startups and scaleups, driving innovation and competitiveness across the EU.”
Next steps
The Commission is now analysing the feedback, alongside ongoing input from the new “European Startups and Scaleups Forum”, the EIC Board, the EIC Forum and various national agencies and bodies. The final EU Startup and Scaleup Strategy will be presented at the end of May 2025.
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