This is the introduction for a series of 13 articles on Best Practices for entrepreneurship and investments in European countries – Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Cyprus, Estonia, France, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Malta, Portugal, Poland, Romania, and Spain. The origin of this report is the FINE Project Deliverable D4.3 Best Practices Collection produced by Rofin.tech.
Bella Burtin
Impulse4Women
Entrepreneurship and investment are powerful engines of economic growth, but to be truly effective, they must be inclusive. D4.3, a comprehensive study analyzing best practices from 13 European countries, highlights key strategies to foster investment and entrepreneurship, particularly among women and youth. By examining successful practices, funding mechanisms, and support programs, this report outlines how governments and institutions can break down barriers, create opportunities, and drive sustainable economic growth. From targeted financial incentives to mentorship programs and policy reforms, D4.3 provides actionable insights to build a more equitable and dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem across Europe.
The findings of the study demonstrate that effective practices go beyond simply providing funding; they need to foster an environment that nurtures innovation and broadens access to resources. Countries like Estonia and Poland have taken digital-first approaches, streamlining their regulatory frameworks to make it easier for fintech startups to enter the market. Estonia’s e-Residency program, which allows entrepreneurs from anywhere in the world to establish businesses remotely, is a shining example of how digital solutions can remove barriers to entry and attract international talent (“E-Residency of Estonia | Apply & Start an EU Company Online”). Similarly, Poland’s initiatives to simplify business registration have been instrumental in attracting major fintech companies, creating a robust market for financial innovation (Information | Business in Poland). These streamlined processes are crucial in fostering an entrepreneurial climate that encourages growth and international collaboration.
Incentivizing investment through competitive financial support is another key theme of the report. Hungary, with its low corporate tax rate and targeted tax breaks for fintech firms, has successfully positioned itself as an attractive destination for tech and innovation-driven investment (Hungary – Corporate – Taxes on Corporate Income). Cyprus also plays a significant role with its IP Box regime, offering an effective tax rate of just 2.5% on qualifying intellectual property profits (“International Comparative Legal Guides”). This focus on financial incentives not only attracts foreign investment but also encourages homegrown startups to scale and succeed. These fiscal policies provide startups with the breathing room they need to innovate, build, and grow in a competitive market.
The report also highlights the importance of building strong fintech ecosystems, where collaboration between startups, investors, and government agencies can thrive. Cities such as Cluj-Napoca in Romania and Warsaw in Poland have cultivated vibrant innovation hubs, offering a combination of talent, funding, and a supportive business environment (“Can Cluj Be Romania’s next Big Tech Hub?”). These ecosystems have become magnets for international fintech companies, creating an environment where new ideas can be tested, refined, and scaled quickly. Local governments and institutions play a critical role in providing the infrastructure, both physical and digital, that enables these ecosystems to flourish.
Inclusivity, particularly gender inclusivity, is central to the report’s recommendations. Many of the countries examined have developed policies specifically aimed at reducing the gender gap in entrepreneurship. France’s Women in Fintech Initiative and Banque de France’s Financial Education for Women Entrepreneurs program are just two examples of how targeted initiatives can empower women and ensure they have the resources, networks, and knowledge to succeed in male-dominated sectors (“Innovation at the Banque de France”). In addition, Poland’s initiatives have placed a special emphasis on supporting women-led startups, creating funding programs that specifically target female entrepreneurs and encourage their participation in the fintech ecosystem (“Women in Tech Poland”). By making sure that women have equal access to capital, mentorship, and networks, these programs create a more diverse, balanced, and sustainable entrepreneurial landscape.
Equally important is the support for youth entrepreneurship. Programs like Portugal’s Startup Voucher are designed to give young entrepreneurs the initial funding they need to transform ideas into viable businesses (“Startup Voucher”). These programs, alongside other educational and mentorship initiatives, are laying the foundation for a generation of entrepreneurs who are equipped to tackle today’s global challenges. By fostering innovation and giving young people the tools and support to succeed, these initiatives are shaping the next wave of leadership in entrepreneurship across Europe.
Beyond financial and educational support, the report also highlights the significance of long-term investor relations and aftercare services. For instance, countries like Poland have set up mechanisms to ensure that once foreign investment arrives, it continues to be nurtured through networks, events, and collaborative platforms (Polish Investment & Trade Agency). This aftercare is essential for maintaining momentum and ensuring that startups, especially in the fintech sector, have the support they need to scale globally.
In conclusion, D4.3 presents a roadmap for creating a more inclusive and dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem in Europe that can be replicated elsewhere. By aligning regulatory frameworks, providing targeted financial incentives, fostering inclusive ecosystems, and offering specific support to women and youth, countries across Europe can not only increase their attractiveness as investment destinations but also build a more equitable and sustainable economy. As governments and institutions continue to break down barriers and create opportunities, the future of European entrepreneurship looks increasingly inclusive, innovative, and globally competitive.
