The intersection of startups and policy is more critical than ever, and on May 10th, at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Malta, the Innovation Radar Bridge event will serve as the nexus for these discussions, taking place inside the EU-Startups Summit. Drawing together a diverse array of stakeholders including EU-funded innovators, investors, corporates, policymakers, and media, this event promises to be a transformative experience. You can now register (for free) to join the event.
At the heart of the event lies a shared goal: to explore innovative strategies for tackling policy-related challenges and harnessing opportunities within the European startup landscape. By actively engaging with key stakeholders in EU-level policymaking, the Innovation Radar Bridge ignites dynamic discussions on the primary hurdles and prospects for driving EU-backed innovation to achieve profound societal and market impacts.
The event offers a unique platform for policymakers to access vital forums, fostering dialogue among EU startups, SMEs, corporate communities, and investors on critical topics within the EU innovation ecosystem. Esteemed guests including members of the European Commission, Europe Innovation Council, ESNA and Malta Enterprise will be in attendance, alongside a host of innovators and investors, creating an unparalleled opportunity to shape the future of EU innovation policy. You can check out the agenda here.
Special Presentation: The Current State of Startups and Venture Capital in Europe
Thijs Povel, CEO of Dealflow, and Yoram Wijngaarde, CEO of Dealroom, will address the audience with a special presentation on the current state of startups and venture capital in Europe. Gain insights into the latest trends, opportunities, and challenges shaping the European startup ecosystem from two industry experts at the forefront of innovation.
The Innovation Radar Bridge event promises to be a landmark occasion, offering attendees the chance to shape the future of EU innovation policy and foster collaborative solutions for the challenges ahead. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the conversation.
Panel Discussions:
Innovating for a Stronger Europe
Innovation is the cornerstone of Europe’s growth, and startups and SMEs play a pivotal role in driving this transformation. The panel on “Innovating for a Stronger Europe” will delve into the core strategies and mechanisms that empower these entities to spearhead transformative change across various sectors. From groundbreaking technologies to disruptive business models, this session will explore how European innovators are redefining traditional paradigms and catalysing economic progress.
Speakers
- Josianne Cujatar MEP, Committee on Industry, Research and Energy at European Parliament
- Carolina Rossi, Head of Network and Strategic Initiatives at ESNA
- Eoghan O’Neill, Senior Policy Officer at European Commission
- Brian Camilleri, Chief Officer at Malta EnterpriseModerated by Luisa González, Head of European Projects at EU-Startups
They will share their insights on fostering an environment conducive to innovation, including the importance of cross-sector collaboration, access to talent and resources, and the cultivation of a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. By highlighting success stories and lessons learned, this discussion aims to inspire and equip aspiring innovators with the knowledge and tools needed to make their mark on the European stage.
Navigating EU-funding Opportunities and Policy Challenges for Startups
Securing funding is often a crucial milestone for startups looking to scale their operations and bring their innovations to market. However, navigating the complex landscape of EU funding opportunities can be daunting, particularly for early-stage ventures. In this panel discussion, experts will provide valuable insights into the various funding mechanisms available to startups, including Horizon Europe, EIC Accelerator, and other EU programs.
Speakers
- Bart Becks, Board Member at European Innovation Council
- Marie Latour, European Affairs Director at Euro Funding
- André Xuereb, Founder of Merqury Cybersecurity
- Lili Kankaya, Horizon Europe Senior Executive at Malta Council for Science and TechnologyModerated by Sarah Luvisotto, Head of Marketing and Communications at ESNA
Moreover, the panel will address the policy challenges that startups encounter in accessing funding, such as regulatory barriers, administrative hurdles, and market uncertainties. By fostering a deeper understanding of the funding process and policy landscape, this session aims to empower startups to leverage EU support effectively and overcome obstacles on their path to success.
Strategies for Collaboration between Policymakers and Innovators
Effective collaboration between policymakers and innovators is essential for driving meaningful change and addressing pressing societal challenges. This panel discussion brings together thought leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to explore strategies for fostering closer collaboration and co-creation in the European innovation landscape.
Speakers
- Marise Almeida, COO and CFO of Nitrogen Sensing Solutions
- Thijs Povel, CEO of Dealflow
- Peter Vaník, Market Development & Entrepreneurship Consultant at EUSPA – EU Agency for the Space Programme
- Angelo Dalli Co-Founder & CTO | UMNAIModerated by Sarah Luvisotto, Head of Marketing and Communications at ESNA
The experts will share their experiences and insights on successful collaboration models, highlighting best practices and lessons learned from their interactions with policymakers and innovators. They will delve into the importance of mutual understanding, trust, and shared objectives in driving collaboration forward, emphasizing the need for open dialogue and transparency.
Through lively discussions and real-world examples, the panel will identify key barriers to collaboration, such as regulatory constraints, communication gaps, and differing priorities, and explore innovative approaches to overcoming these challenges. By illuminating the potential benefits of collaboration and offering practical guidance on how to navigate the complexities of the policymaker-innovator relationship, this session aims to inspire and empower stakeholders to work together towards common goals and create lasting impact.
Ready to be part of the conversation at the Innovation Radar Bridge event? Don’t miss this opportunity to network with industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators.
Register now to secure your spot and join us for a transformative experience – it’s free, and if you register now, you also get the chance to access the EU-Startups Summit on May 10th. Let’s shape the future of EU innovation policy together!
