The StepUp Startups Stage is set to be one of the highlights of the EU-Startups Summit 2025, taking place on April 24-25 in Malta. With a capacity for 350 attendees, this stage will focus on the opportunities available for startups and startup ecosystem builders from across Europe.
Named after the StepUp Startups project, this stage is part of a broader effort to strengthen the European startup ecosystem. It is supported by EU-Startups in collaboration with various European initiatives, including the Innovation Radar Bridge project. These initiatives are working together to integrate different EU programs, providing startups with better access to funding, market opportunities, and investor networks.
A stage designed for Startup Growth
The StepUp Startups Stage will bring together visionary entrepreneurs, top investors, and key policymakers to discuss the future of startup funding, market expansion, and scaling opportunities in Europe. The programming will highlight various EU-backed initiatives, offering insights into how startups can leverage venture capital, public funding, and corporate partnerships to grow.
This year’s program includes engaging keynotes, panel discussions, and fireside chats, featuring some of the most influential figures in the European startup landscape.
Notable speakers at StepUp Startups Stage
Here are just a few of the prominent names who will take the stage:
- Charles Letourneur – Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Alven
- Ekke Van Vliet – Investment Coordinator, EIC Fund
- Sissel Hansen – Founder & CEO, Startup Guide
These experts, along with many other leading investors and entrepreneurs, will share their knowledge on investment trends, scaling strategies, and the future of European startups.
Why you should attend
If you are a startup founder, investor, or innovation enthusiast, the StepUp Startups Stage will be an unmissable opportunity at this year’s EU-Startups Summit. You’ll gain:
- Exclusive insights from top industry leaders
- Networking opportunities with investors and fellow entrepreneurs
- Strategies to scale your startup and access funding
- Practical advice on navigating the European startup landscape
And here’s the exciting part: While all participants of the EU-Startups Summit automatically gain access to join this stage, applications are now open for those interested in attending exclusively the StepUp Startups Stage – for free! This is your chance to connect with founders, investors corporates and policymakers, and be part of an exciting conversation shaping the future of European startups. Make sure to apply now here – spots are limited, so take advantage of this incredible opportunity to attend in Malta!
Don’t miss your chance to be part of the conversation shaping the future of European startups. See you in Malta on April 24-25!
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Malta Enterprise is Malta’s economic development agency, facilitating economic growth, investment, and innovation, by offering a range of support services for local and foreign enterprises setting up a productive presence in Malta. As a key player in Malta’s economic landscape, it contributes to the nation’s prosperity by attracting investments, supporting businesses, and driving innovation, thereby reinforcing Malta’s position as an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and investors alike. Malta Enterprise actively cultivates a vibrant startup ecosystem, playing a pivotal role in fostering a conducive environment for startups and offering tailored support and incentives to empower emerging businesses.
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Scytale helps startups get compliant and stay compliant with frameworks like SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR, NIS 2, HIPAA, PCI-DSS and more, without breaking a sweat.
Airwallex is a leading global financial platform for modern businesses, offering trusted solutions to manage everything from payments, treasury, and spend management to embedded finance. With their proprietary infrastructure, Airwallex takes the friction out of global payments and financial operations, empowering businesses of all sizes to unlock new opportunities and grow beyond borders. Proudly founded in Melbourne, Airwallex supports over 100,000 businesses globally and is trusted by brands such as Brex, Rippling, Navan, Qantas, SHEIN and many more.
EUROCROWD is an independent network organisation aiming to support and promote crowdfunding as an alternative funding mechanism for small and medium-sized enterprises and innovative projects. EUROCROWD promotes and supports the development of Crowdfunding mechanisms as a viable funding source to European entrepreneurs and funders.
The M. Demajo Group is a leading business player in Malta, with a successful history spanning 115 years. The Group’s growth and diversification have resulted in a wide coverage of business sectors through a commitment to long-term results. M. Demajo Group’s workforce is 500 strong and their various activities have been developed through organic growth, acquisitions, partnerships, and startups. Its strong financial situation and ethical standards, its business reputation, and its renowned track record as a business partner are all key factors in its continued expansion.
The European Innovation Council (EIC) is a flagship initiative of the European Commission to turn disruptive European science into groundbreaking commercial propositions and accelerate the scale-up of “game-changing” innovations. It is a key building bloc of a reinforced European ecosystem and the New European Innovation Agenda, filling the gap between R&D support, private investors, and the market. With a budget of over €10 billion under the Horizon Europe Programme (2021-2027) it seeks to position Europe as a global leader in the current wave of deep tech innovation.
