On 28 May 2025, the European Commission launched a new strategy to support start-ups and scale-ups in the EU. This strategy, called 'Choose Europe to Start and Scale', aims to make Europe more attractive for technology-driven companies. For the bio-based sector, in which many innovative SMEs are active, this strategy offers opportunities to grow and contribute to a sustainable economy.
The strategy focuses on reducing administrative burdens and harmonising regulations within the EU. This includes simplifying rules for setting up a business and reducing regulatory pressure in strategic sectors such as biotechnology. In addition, the introduction of the European Innovation Act is announced, which includes regulatory sandboxes to facilitate innovation.
Better access to financing
An important part of the strategy is improving access to capital for startups and scale-ups. This will be achieved, among other things, by expanding and simplifying the European Innovation Council and establishing a Scaleup Europe Fund. In addition, a European Innovation Investment Pact is proposed to encourage institutional investors to invest in non-listed startups and scale-ups.
Accelerating market access
The strategy introduces the ‘Lab to Unicorn’ initiative, which aims to accelerate the commercialisation of research. This includes the creation of European Startup and Scale-up Hubs that connect universities and research institutions with market opportunities. In addition, a blueprint for licensing and equity participation for academic institutions and their inventors is being developed.
Attracting and retaining talent
To attract and retain talent, the strategy introduces the ‘Blue Carpet’ initiative. This includes measures such as improving access to highly qualified individuals, simplifying tax rules for employee shares and boosting entrepreneurship education. It also works to harmonise access to research and technology infrastructures across the EU.
Specific support for the bio-based sector
The strategy recognises the challenges faced by small businesses in the bio-based sector, such as access to finance and regulation. Many of these businesses are involved in projects funded by the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU). For example, the SUSTAINEXT project in Spain is transforming an existing facility into a digital, circular biorefinery that will extract high-quality ingredients from locally grown plants and agricultural by-products. This project will contribute to sustainable development and employment in the region.
With this strategy, the European Commission is taking a step towards a more innovative and sustainable economy, in which start-ups and scale-ups are given the space to grow and contribute to European competitiveness.
More information can be found at cbe.europa.eu
