European Tech Gets Political

Why It Matters

The push for coordinated lobbying could reshape EU tech policy, reducing regulatory fragmentation and unlocking growth for European startups, while also influencing the continent’s competitiveness in AI and other emerging sectors.

Summary

Atomico’s 2025 State of European Tech report shows rising venture investment and marks a shift toward organized lobbying by European startups and investors. The report, authored by partner Tom Wehmeier, puts forward four policy recommendations—Fix the friction, Fund the future, Empower talent, and Champion risk—aimed at harmonising regulations, boosting funding, and improving talent pipelines, echoing EU‑INC’s proposed “28th regime” for a pan‑European company structure. The document features a quote from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasizing AI made in Europe, underscoring high‑level political attention. Industry leaders like Synthesia’s Alexandru Voica note that enhanced communications and policy work are now essential to counter public distrust and manage risk.