Latest Startups & Entrepreneurship News
Eight European Startups Selected for EIC STEP Scale-Up Funding
The European Innovation Council announced eight startups to receive €10-30 million each, totaling up to €146.5 million, for strategic technologies like AI, quantum computing, and space. Companies include Aignostics (Germany, AI drug development), Alice & Bob (France, quantum computers), and Payload Aerospace (Spain, space transport). This addresses deep tech funding gaps under the €300 million 2026 budget.
Panathēnea 2026: Major AI Startup and Investor Gathering in Athens
Panathēnea 2026 (May 27-29, Athens) expects 10,000+ attendees including AI startups, investors, and tech leaders, positioning as a key South Europe hub. Features Microsoft for Startups' Investor Day with 200 EMEA VCs and a Microsoft keynote on AI innovation. The event fosters relationships and visibility for Europe's AI ecosystem.
China Blocks Meta's Acquisition of AI Startup Manus
China's National Development and Reform Commission prohibited Meta's purchase of Singapore-based AI startup Manus, citing security concerns over advanced tech transfer. Manus develops general-purpose AI agents for tasks like coding and market research; the deal was under review earlier this year. This escalates global AI rivalry tensions.
Otto Raises $500,000 for World's First AI Chief of Staff for Sales
Voice-first CRM startup Otto secured $500,000 funding after outperforming over 100 global AI and B2B SaaS competitors. The investment supports building an AI chief of staff tailored for sales teams. This highlights growing demand for AI-driven sales automation tools.
Aignostics (Germany) to Receive EIC Scale-Up Funding for AI Drug Development
German startup Aignostics is among eight selected for EIC funding to transform drug development and improve patient outcomes using AI. It advances through due diligence for €10-30 million investment. Part of Europe's push for strategic biotech innovations.
Alice & Bob (France) Advances Toward Universal Quantum Computer with EIC Funds
French quantum computing startup Alice & Bob is set for EIC scale-up investment to build the first universal quantum computer. Selected from 44 applicants after expert interviews. Supports Europe's quantum tech independence.
Endurosat (Bulgaria) Gains Funding for Universal Space Intelligence Access
Bulgarian startup Endurosat will receive EIC funds to make space intelligence universally accessible. Focuses on strategic space technologies amid Europe's scaling needs. One of eight winners in the STEP Scale Up scheme.
Luabio (Denmark) Funded to Rebuild Chemical Industry with AI and CO2
Danish startup Luabio secures EIC investment for AI-designed biocatalysts using waste CO2 as feedstock to revolutionize chemicals. Addresses resource-efficient tech gaps. Part of €146.5 million cohort.
Payload Aerospace (Spain) Backed for Moon and Mars Space Missions
Spanish startup Payload Aerospace is EIC-funded to provide global space transportation for cargo and human missions to Moon and Mars. Enhances Europe's space ambitions. Selected for scale-up phase.
Quantware (Netherlands) Advances Quantum Scaling with 3D Architecture Funding
Dutch quantum firm Quantware receives EIC nod for 3D architecture enabling faster, more powerful quantum computing scaling. Targets deep tech market gaps. Included in latest STEP Scale Up selections.
Greenland Resources (Denmark/Greenland) Funded for Molybdenum Deposit Development
Greenland Resources is set for EIC investment in a world-class Climax-type molybdenum deposit with magnesium by-products. Supports Europe's resource-efficient mining tech. One of eight strategic winners.
EIC STEP Scale Up Call Remains Open with Quarterly Evaluations in 2026
The EIC's €300 million STEP Scale Up program continues accepting proposals, with batches on May 6, September 9, and November 25, 2026. Targets digital, clean tech, and biotech to reduce dependencies. High demand underscores Europe's deep tech funding needs.