European Union mobilises €80 bn for tech firms and advances EU‑Inc startup framework

EU leaders, the European Investment Bank and major institutional investors will pool up to €80 billion in capital under the second phase of the European Champions of Technology Initiative (ICTE 2.0). The fund aims to provide equity financing for highly innovative technology companies so they can become global leaders. French Economy Minister Roland Lescure said, “In Europe we have real jewels in technology and AI. We must believe in them and give them the means to grow.”

At the same time, the European Commission has presented a “Regime 28” proposal to create a voluntary pan‑EU corporate form called EU‑Inc. The scheme would allow companies to be incorporated digitally within 48 hours, without a minimum capital requirement, and with a “once‑only” reporting principle. South Summit urged that the legislation retain its ambition to reduce market fragmentation and ease cross‑border investment for startups, scale‑ups and investors. The proposal is in parliamentary amendment stage until 17 July, after which it could become a tool for faster, lower‑cost company formation across the 27 Member States.