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EC creates new technology start-up initiative

The European Commission (EC) has set up a new initiative that aims to encourage technology start-ups across the continent.

Vice president Neelie Kroes announced the launch of the Startup Europe Partnership (SEP) at the World Economic Forum in Davos.

It will be led by the UK-based Mind the Bridge Foundation, a non-profit corporation which runs an accelerator programme and Nesta, a charity which funds innovation.

It is hoped that the SEP will help start-up companies in Europe, particularly in the technology sector, build bridges with corporate and investment communities to raise necessary funds and beat language barriers.

Events will take place to match new businesses with corporations to encourage the procurement and investment in start-ups.

Speaking from Davos, Ms Kroes said:: “Politicians don’t create jobs, entrepreneurs do. We’re going to support that mindset and push European start-ups beyond their comfort zone. And then we’re going to get out of the way. Sometimes the best thing a political leader can do is get out of the way.”

By Claire Archer