Inside the EU's Bold Plan to Supercharge European Startups

Jan de Vries · 2026-09-09

What if the biggest obstacle to your startup's growth wasn't your product or your team, but the fragmented market you're stuck in? That's the reality for countless founders across Europe. I recently sat down with Momchil Sabev, Director of the European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA), to unpack how public institutions are stepping in to fix this—and what it means for entrepreneurs everywhere. ### The Hidden Engine of European Innovation EISMEA might not be a household name, but it's quietly reshaping the startup landscape. Momchil's career spans entrepreneurship, private consulting, and high-level EU leadership, giving him a unique lens on what founders actually need. He believes the agency's role isn't just about writing checks—it's about building an ecosystem where ambitious ideas can thrive. > "Non-financial support—mentorship, partnerships, access to expertise—can be just as transformative as funding," Momchil told me. That's a refreshing take in a world obsessed with valuations. ### Why Fragmentation Is the Silent Killer One of the biggest hurdles startups face is scaling beyond their home market. Europe's patchwork of regulations, languages, and business cultures makes it tough to grow. EISMEA is tackling this head-on, ensuring startups from less-connected regions get the same opportunities as those in major hubs. - **Breaking down barriers:** Simplifying cross-border operations so founders can focus on growth. - **Leveling the playing field:** Directing resources to underserved areas, not just the usual suspects. - **Building bridges:** Connecting startups with mentors, corporates, and investors across the continent. ### The EIC's DeepTech Bet The European Innovation Council (EIC) has become a powerhouse for DeepTech—think AI, biotech, and clean energy. Momchil sees the EIC as a catalyst, providing targeted support that helps these capital-intensive ventures survive the "valley of death." But it's not just about money. The EIC's programs offer something equally valuable: credibility. When a startup gets EIC backing, investors take notice. That stamp of approval can be the difference between struggling and soaring. ### What's Next for European Startups? Looking ahead, Momchil envisions a more integrated, competitive, and founder-friendly Europe. The goal? An ecosystem where a startup in Portugal has the same shot at success as one in Germany. It's an ambitious vision, but with EISMEA and the EIC pushing the agenda, it's starting to feel within reach. For founders, the message is clear: you're not alone. Public institutions are increasingly playing the role of enabler, not bureaucrat. And that could be a game-changer for the next generation of European innovators.