Team Sweden Tech Policy Track & Mingle

On 19 November 2024, our Startup Policy Officer, Kalle Fahlvik, represented Allied for Startups as a speaker at the Team Sweden Tech Policy Track & Mingle in Helsinki, part of the highly anticipated Slush 2024 event. Kalle joined a panel of thought leaders to discuss the state of startups and Europe’s competitiveness, sparking a critical conversation about how to elevate the region’s innovation ecosystem.

In his speech, Kalle emphasised a key point: while European policymakers are increasingly recognizing the contributions of startups to the economy, recognition must now translate into decisive, bold action. With a new European Commission in place, there is no better time to implement policies that directly address the challenges startups face, fostering an environment where innovation can thrive.

Kalle outlined three key priorities for advancing Europe’s startup ecosystem:

1. Overcoming Market Fragmentation
   Implementing the 28th Regime to create a seamless, unified single market for startups across Europe was highlighted as a transformative step. This measure would eliminate barriers, enabling startups to operate fluidly across borders and scale efficiently.
2. Streamlining Bureaucracy
   Simplified and harmonized regulations are critical for reducing the administrative burden on startups, freeing them to focus on innovation and growth. Simplification, Kalle argued, is essential to fostering a startup-friendly environment across the EU.
3. Unlocking Access to Capital
   Completing the Capital Markets Union is key to empowering startups with the resources needed to scale and thrive. Access to diverse funding opportunities will ensure that startups can sustain their growth and compete globally.

The panel also featured powerful insights from leaders such as Peter Ericson (Embassy of Sweden), MEP Arba Kokalari (European People’s Party, European Parliament), Kati Pärn (Startup Estonia), Marjo Ilmari (Business Finland), Olivia Nestius (Graphmatech), and Salla Franzén (Navigare Ventures). Their perspectives reinforced the urgency of removing barriers and accelerating collaboration to support startups across Europe.

A special thanks to the incredible efforts of Swedish Incubators & Science Parks, Ignite Sweden, Svenska institutet, Vinnova, the Embassy of Sweden in Helsinki, Business Sweden, and Stockholm Business Region for organizing such a remarkable event. Bringing together over 300 founders, investors, and innovation leaders, the panel set an inspiring tone for this year’s Slush.

As Kalle noted, the time for Europe to unlock its startup potential is now. Together, we can drive the bold changes needed to make Europe a global leader in innovation!