Startup leaders in Europe are increasingly scaling ambitious companies that target global markets, showcasing their potential in various industries. The issues around this growth were front and center at the recent StrictlyVC Don’t @ Me Athens event. Here’s a recap of our recent discussion with three notable TBF founders – here’s what it takes to go from concept to world-changing venture.
Through it all, the event was a reflection of Europe’s shifting startup landscape. Now, challenges that previously would have been considered downsides have become the very competitive advantages. No wonder the founders were keen to show that creating something in Europe has recently been defined by dynamism, opportunity and possibility. Industries that include cybersecurity, aerospace, and generative 3D are just a few areas in which these entrepreneurs are doing big things.
In the moderated panel discussion that followed, the experts discussed their experiences living and working amid the rapidly evolving European startup scene. Despite the promise shown in Europe, they too are facing headwinds such as regulatory and market fragmentation. These barriers frequently push entrepreneurs to be more resourceful and innovative. It’s a mindset that startup leaders are increasingly beginning to adopt. Rather than viewing Europe as a constraint, they’re increasingly understanding the strategic advantages of doing business from this continent.
Our founders’ panelists spoke to the need for a focus on tapping homegrown talent and resources, which are plentiful across all of the European markets mentioned. They highlighted the ways that creative collaboration across their region has led to groundbreaking partnerships. This collaboration increases their ability to ramp up operations on a worldwide scale. That focus on community building could end up being the bedrock of success for Europe’s nascent startups.
The discussion at the StrictlyVC event 40 The 40th forum pointed to an exciting trend. Europe is experiencing a renaissance of ambitious founders, all hoping to be the first Europeans to conquer the world. The lessons brought to life during the summit highlight a growing confidence that European startups have every chance to compete on equal footing with their peers across the globe.