The EU-Startups Summit 2025 in Malta will feature expert discussions on balancing public grants and VC funding as European startups face tighter investment conditions.
The upcoming EU-Startups Summit 2025 in Malta (April 24-25) will host a critical panel discussion on navigating Europe’s changing funding environment. Experts from FundingBox, EIC & SMEs Executive Agency, Euro-Funding, and Coinvest Capital will analyze the growing trend of hybrid financing models as VC markets tighten and public grant opportunities expand.
Shifting funding dynamics in European startups
Recent data from the European Commission reveals contrasting trends in startup financing. While EIC Accelerator grants increased 15% year-over-year, VC funding across Europe declined by 12% in Q1 2025. This divergence has forced many founders to reconsider traditional funding approaches.
Case studies in hybrid financing
A Dealroom study shows 42% of Series A startups now combine grants with equity financing, up from just 28% in 2023. The panel will examine successful examples of companies that transitioned to blended models during the recent funding winter, including strategies for maintaining founder control while meeting investor expectations.
New opportunities in public funding
With 78 deep-tech startups receiving €312M through the EIC Accelerator in March 2025, and Malta’s new €10M co-investment fund, public funding options are expanding. The discussion will cover how startups can effectively navigate application processes and compliance requirements for these programs.
