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Startups are Changing Housing Market
Startups are Changing Housing Market 1024 472 RAISE fosters startup growth and scale-up within and across Europe

Startups are changing the housing market by leveraging technology and innovation to address some of the biggest challenges facing the industry. From affordable housing to property management, startups are disrupting traditional models and creating new opportunities for homeowners, renters, and investors alike.

One area where startups are making a significant impact is in the development of affordable housing. In many cities around the world, the cost of housing has skyrocketed, leaving many people struggling to find affordable options. Affordable housing startups are using new business models and technologies to provide more affordable and sustainable housing solutions. For example, modular housing startups are using prefabricated building materials and offsite construction to reduce costs and increase efficiency.

Another way startups are changing the housing market is by providing new tools and platforms for property management. Property management startups are using technology to streamline the management of rental properties, making it easier for landlords to find tenants, manage leases, and collect rent. These startups are also providing new tools for tenant screening, background checks, and lease management, reducing the administrative burden for landlords.

In the real estate investment space, startups are using technology to create new opportunities for investors. Real estate crowdfunding platforms are providing a new way for investors to access real estate investments, with lower minimum investment thresholds and greater transparency. Other startups are using machine learning and artificial intelligence to provide more accurate valuations and investment recommendations.

Startups are also using technology to improve the home buying and selling process. Real estate tech startups are using virtual reality and 3D imaging to provide immersive property tours and interactive floor plans, giving potential buyers a more realistic view of properties. Other startups are using blockchain technology to create more secure and transparent property transactions, reducing the risk of fraud and increasing trust in the market.

In conclusion, startups are changing the housing market by using technology and innovation to address some of the biggest challenges facing the industry. From affordable housing to property management, real estate investment to home buying and selling, startups are creating new opportunities and disrupting traditional models. As the startup ecosystem continues to evolve and expand, we can expect to see even more changes and advancements in the housing market in the years to come.

In-depth Analysis for Solid Foundation of Startup
In-depth Analysis for Solid Foundation of Startup 1 1 RAISE fosters startup growth and scale-up within and across Europe

Starting a business is an exciting and challenging endeavor. However, without a solid foundation, a startup can quickly crumble. One of the most important steps in building a successful startup is conducting a thorough analysis of the market, competition, and industry. In this article, we will discuss the key steps in making a good analysis for a solid foundation of a startup.

  1. Define your target market: The first step in building a successful startup is identifying your target market. Your target market is the group of people who are most likely to buy your product or service. It is essential to have a clear understanding of who your target market is, what their needs and wants are, and what motivates them to buy.

To define your target market, you need to conduct market research. This can include surveys, focus groups, and interviews with potential customers. You can also use online tools to gather information about your target market, such as demographics, purchasing behavior, and interests. Once you have a clear understanding of your target market, you can tailor your product or service to meet their needs and create a marketing strategy that speaks directly to them.

  1. Research the competition: Once you have identified your target market, you need to research your competition. This will give you a better understanding of the market landscape and help you identify any gaps or opportunities in the market. Analyze their strengths and weaknesses, pricing strategies, marketing techniques, and customer base.

You can conduct competitive research by visiting their website, social media pages, and reading reviews. You can also attend industry events and trade shows to learn more about your competitors and the market. Once you have a clear understanding of your competition, you can differentiate yourself from them and create a unique selling proposition.

  1. Understand the industry: It is important to have a clear understanding of the industry you are entering. Conduct research on industry trends, regulations, and growth potential. Look for areas where the industry is growing, and identify any potential threats or challenges.

You can conduct industry research by reading industry reports, attending industry events, and joining industry associations. By understanding the industry, you can identify any potential opportunities or threats and make informed decisions about your business.

  1. SWOT analysis: Conducting a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis is a useful tool for identifying the internal and external factors that can impact your business. It will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, as well as opportunities and threats in the market.

To conduct a SWOT analysis, you need to identify your company’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as any potential opportunities and threats in the market. You can use this information to develop a strategic plan that leverages your strengths and opportunities and mitigates your weaknesses and threats.

  1. Financial analysis: A financial analysis is essential for understanding the financial viability of your startup. You need to create a financial plan, which includes cash flow projections, revenue projections, and expense projections. This will help you determine how much capital you need to start and operate your business, and when you can expect to break even and turn a profit.

To create a financial plan, you need to estimate your startup costs, such as equipment, inventory, and marketing expenses. You also need to estimate your monthly expenses, such as rent, salaries, and utilities. Finally, you need to estimate your revenue, based on your target market and competition.

  1. Marketing strategy: A good marketing strategy is crucial for the success of your startup. Your marketing strategy should include a detailed plan for reaching your target market, building brand awareness, and driving sales. It should also include a clear understanding of your unique selling proposition and how you differentiate yourself from the competition.

To create a marketing strategy, you need to identify the channels that are most effective for reaching your target market. The strategy should include a mix of tactics, including social media marketing, content marketing, email marketing, and paid advertising. By creating a well-rounded marketing strategy, startups can attract customers, build brand loyalty, and drive revenue.

Conducting a thorough analysis of the market, competition, and industry is essential for building a solid foundation for your startup. By following these key steps, you can gain a clear understanding of your target market, competition, and industry, and create a financial plan and marketing strategy that will set you up for success. Remember, the more you know about the market and competition, the better equipped you will be to make informed decisions and grow your business.

EBAN Congress 2023
EBAN Congress 2023 1024 710 RAISE fosters startup growth and scale-up within and across Europe

The EBAN Congress 2023 presents a great opportunity for investors and corporates to come together to connect, learn from experts, and potentially become the next success story. Attending this event gives you a chance to meet and network with the best angel investors in the world and gain valuable insights into the investment world. Moreover, as an attendee, you will be able to attend the many workshops and sessions offered, all of which are designed to help you improve your investment strategies.

The event features several exciting pitching opportunities, including the Innovation Showcase, Scaleup of the Month, and the EBAN Investment Prize. The Innovation Showcase is a platform for selected startups raising €50K – €500K, coming from all sectors. The Scaleup of the Month session is dedicated to EBAN member portfolio companies raising follow-on rounds of €500K – €5M. Finally, the EBAN Investment Prize is a prestigious award presented to innovative and promising startups at the annual EBAN events.

Applying to pitch for any of these opportunities is easy. Simply submit your investment project on the InvestEU Portal before April 9, 2023. Early-stage companies from all industries and sectors actively fundraising for an equity investment of €50K – €5M can apply. If you are applying to pitch for the Scaleup of the Month, please give references to the EBAN member angels backing your company in your application.

Successful applicants will receive complimentary Congress tickets, a pitching slot, profile listing, and access to all workshops, sessions, and networking areas. Moreover, you will be given the chance to engage in 1-1 matchmaking meetings facilitated by the InvestEU Portal. This opportunity will enable you to network with potential investors and partners, making it an excellent opportunity to grow your business.

The EBAN Investment Prize was first introduced during the 2022 European Angel Investment Summit and awarded to Interstellar Lab. Their pitch caught the attention of investors, and they were able to secure an impressive €228,700 in funding as a direct result of the prize. If you are an innovative and promising startup, the EBAN Investment Prize could be an excellent opportunity for you to gain exposure and secure funding.

Attending the EBAN Congress 2023 is a great opportunity to network with investors, learn from experts, and potentially secure funding. Applying to pitch for any of the opportunities available could be the gateway to success for your early-stage company. So, log in or create an account on the InvestEU Portal, complete all three parts of the application form, and receive confirmation of your unique reference number. Don’t miss out on the chance to join the world’s best angel investors at the EBAN Congress 2023.

European Village Startup Forum
European Village Startup Forum 1 1 RAISE fosters startup growth and scale-up within and across Europe

The European Startup Village Forum is part of a larger vision for the development of rural areas in the European Union (EU). In 2021, the European Commission launched the Long-Term Vision for the EU’s Rural Areas, which outlines a set of actions aimed at making rural areas stronger, more connected, resilient, and prosperous by 2040. The Vision recognizes the vital role of innovation in empowering citizens and entrepreneurs to seize opportunities arising from societal, environmental, and digital transformations. To this end, the Vision includes a flagship action on Research and Innovation for Rural Communities, which aims to foster a robust ecosystem that brings together public and private actors to promote the thriving of rural communities and to make them attractive places for innovators to live and work.

Against this backdrop, the annual European Startup Village Forum seeks to foster knowledge exchange and cooperation among stakeholders and to provide an open platform for institutions and experts to meet, discuss, and shape initiatives that promote startup-driven innovation in rural areas. In its 2023 edition, the Forum will explore the main elements and enabling factors of the Startup Village concept through a genuine science-for-policy interaction, which will facilitate the identification and analysis of the triggers of innovation and startup creation in rural areas. Participants are also expected to debate and propose concrete actions on how the Forum can enhance its role as a linking device to connect existing initiatives and stakeholders around the challenge of startup creation in rural areas and the importance of building effective place-based innovation ecosystems.

The Forum will also offer an opportunity to discuss several ongoing experiences related to Startup Villages and supporting tools, both developed by the European Commission and other stakeholders. For example, some support measures for promoting innovation and startup creation in rural areas and improving the framework conditions included in various EU policies and programs will be presented.

The Forum aims to identify a few themes for a research and knowledge exchange agenda on the Startup Village concept, whose findings will inform and guide the next edition of the Forum. The European Commission’s Joint Research Centre will support the Forum through scientific analysis and knowledge exchange, in coordination with the activities of the Rural Observatory.

The 2023 edition of the Forum will be chaired by European Commission Vice-President Dubravka Šuica, along with Commissioners Elisa Ferreira, Mariya Gabriel, and Janusz Wojciechowski, as well as the Vice-President of the European Committee of the Regions, Apostolos Tzitzikostas. It will provide a platform for a science-for-policy exchange to explore the main elements and enabling conditions of the Startup Village concept and support the identification and analysis of triggering factors for innovation and startup creation in rural areas.

During the in-person event organized by the JRC, called The European Startup Village Forum, Abel Fernández, a team member of the European Business Angels Network (EBAN), presented the Startup Village Forum initiative. The Forum’s flagship action on Research and Innovation for Rural Communities aims to contribute to the development of a strong ecosystem that brings together public and private actors to foster rural communities’ growth and attractiveness for innovators.

“Through the Startup Village Forum, villages and rural areas with big dreams can share their ideas,” pointed out Gabriel Mariya, European Commissioner for Innovation.

MEP Maria da Graça Carvalho was one of the speakers, alongside Commissioners Mariya Gabriel, Janusz Wojciechowski, and Elisa Ferreira. In her speech, Maria da Graça Carvalho emphasized the importance of research and innovation in rural areas, highlighting the need for creating conducive conditions to attract innovators and prioritizing rural-related research and innovation topics. She also stressed the relevance of synergies of funds and provided two successful examples from Portugal, namely a pilot project in Alentejo and the Madeira Project – Ponta do Sol.

Impact of Startups in European Union
Impact of Startups in European Union 1024 683 RAISE fosters startup growth and scale-up within and across Europe

Startups have become a driving force in the European Union, making significant contributions to the economy, innovation, and society. They have created new jobs, introduced new products and services, and disrupted traditional industries with innovative business models.

One of the areas where startups are having a significant impact is in the digital economy. With the increasing use of technology and the internet, startups are creating new digital products and services that are changing the way people work, live and communicate. They are using cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things to develop new solutions in industries such as finance, healthcare, education, and transportation.

Another area where startups are making an impact is in sustainability. Startups are addressing environmental challenges such as climate change, pollution, and resource depletion through innovative solutions. They are developing renewable energy technologies, creating sustainable agriculture practices, and introducing new circular business models that reduce waste and emissions.

Furthermore, startups are contributing to the social and economic development of local communities by providing employment opportunities and creating value for customers. They are also promoting diversity and inclusion by offering equal opportunities and promoting gender and racial equality.

Startups are also playing a significant role in the European Union’s overall competitiveness in the global market. By fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, they are helping the EU to maintain its position as a leader in technological innovation and a hub for business innovation. Startups are also driving economic growth by creating new jobs, attracting investments, and boosting productivity.

In conclusion, startups are making a significant impact in the European Union by fostering innovation, driving economic growth, and promoting sustainability and social development. They are changing the way people live and work, and their contributions to the economy and society will continue to grow in the years to come. The European Union’s support for startups through policies and initiatives will be essential in ensuring their continued success and impact.

Leading the New Wave of Deep Tech Innovation
Leading the New Wave of Deep Tech Innovation 1 1 RAISE fosters startup growth and scale-up within and across Europe

The European Innovation Ecosystems (EIE) programme, which is part of Horizon Europe, seeks to foster more connected, inclusive, and efficient innovation ecosystems and promote the growth of companies, as outlined in the New European Innovation Agenda. The primary aim of the EIE programme is to bring together individuals and organizations focused on innovation and to facilitate connections between various resources, such as funds, equipment, and facilities, as well as organizations, such as higher education institutions, research and technology organizations, companies, venture capitalists, and financial intermediaries, investors, and policymakers.

The New European Innovation Agenda, adopted on July 5, 2022, aims to establish Europe as a leader in the new era of deep tech innovation and startups. Building on Europeans’ entrepreneurial spirit, scientific excellence, the strength of the single market, and democratic societies, the NEIA aims to improve access to funding and innovation framework conditions, strengthen and better connect innovation players across Europe, attract and retain talent in Europe, and develop policymaking tools.

This document showcases the projects funded under the European Innovation Ecosystems work programme, which support the implementation of the New European Innovation Agenda objectives and, more specifically, its flagship initiatives related to “Funding for deep-tech scale-ups,” “Enabling deep tech innovation through experimentation spaces and public procurement,” and “Accelerating and strengthening innovation in European Innovation Ecosystems across the EU and addressing the innovation divide.”

On January 26, 2023, project coordinators and their partners presented their initiatives in a workshop titled “Projects under the European Innovation Ecosystems Work Programme in support of the New European Innovation Agenda.” The project coordinators provided an overview of their activities and connected them to the objectives of the relevant NEIA flagships, namely Flagship 1 on “Funding for deep-tech scale-ups,” Flagship 2 on “Enabling deep tech innovation through experimentation spaces and public procurement,” and Flagship 3 on “Accelerating and strengthening innovation in European Innovation Ecosystems across the EU and addressing the innovation divide.”

The New European Innovation Agenda Flagship 1 seeks to improve access to finance for European startups and scale-ups by mobilizing untapped sources of private capital and simplifying listing rules. The European Innovation Ecosystems Work Programme of Horizon Europe and the Startup Europe initiative, supported by the European Innovation Council (EIC), contribute to the Agenda by facilitating the adoption of deep tech innovations and supporting the next generation of innovative companies whose solutions will lead to a more competitive EU and a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient world.

European Commission, Directorate-General for Research and Innovation, Leading the new wave of deep tech innovation : projects under the European innovation ecosystems work programme in support of the new European innovation agenda, Publications Office of the European Union, 2023, https://data.europa.eu/doi/10.2777/111976

Latvian Startup Ecosystem
Latvian Startup Ecosystem 150 150 RAISE fosters startup growth and scale-up within and across Europe

So you’ve got your idea, a business plan and an ambitious startup team. Is there anything you’re still missing? Well, in Latvia it sure won’t be the case, as you’ll have the support of a compact yet dynamic startup ecosystem that has everything you need to succeed. It’s where state, industry and academia work hand in hand to achieve the best result and it’s what will help you meet all the right people (and have fun) at exciting tech events or get funding for your R&D projects.

Overview of Latvian Startup Ecosystem

Latvian ecosystem is small, yet vibrant, it consists of highly motivated multilingual (often with at least 3 languages or more) talented people of various age and backgrounds. The startup environment is dynamic and rapidly growing. To nurture this growth, all important stakeholders have joined hands together.

Latvian startup infrastructure consists of 400+ registered startups, a pool of institutional investors and business angels, a diverse range of modern co-working spaces, dozens of business incubators fuelled by the government, academia and private individuals, as well as full of exciting gatherings, productive conferences, hackathons and meetups. The capital city Riga hosts numerous annual Tech & Innovation conferences: the iNovussDeep Tech AtelierRiga Tech GirlsTechChill and others. Moreover, a unique Startup Law has been passed and Startup Visa, officially – temporary residence permit, has been created in order to make Latvian startup ecosystem even more vibrant and productive.

Government support

Latvian government has particular interest and determination in boosting the development of startup environment, therefore, the support is provided at various stages: ideation & conceptualization, initiation, development and expansion. No matter what stage you have reached – there is a support mechanism just for you! And it is implemented and delivered through Magnetic Latvia Startup (also known as StartupLatvia), which represents a brand under Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA).

Startup Law

The Law creates a favorable tax regime for startups. The law foresees two benefit scenarios: 1) a special flat tax regime, currently 340,90 euros/month per employee, regardless of salary paid, combined with the 0% individual income tax rate, or 2) 45% co-financing for the highly qualified specialists. Read more on StartupLatvia – Law Benefits website.

Startup Visa

Startup visa, officially – a temporary residence permit, is offered to all non-EU startup founders who are willing to come and develop their startup ideas in Latvia. One startup can have up to 5 founders with a startup visa. The application process takes one month. The visa is given for the period of maximum 3 years and it is also issued to the spouse and children. Read more on StartupLatvia – Startup Visa website.

Innovation Vouchers

Innovation voucher program is aimed for any-size businesses that develop new products or technologies. The R&D actions supported by the program are the development of a new product or technology, the strengthening of industrial property rights and the certification and testing of new product or technology. Innovation vouchers are up to 85% co-financed in the amount of 25 000 EUR. Read more on StartupLatvia – Innovation Vouchers website.

Science Commercialization

The Investment and Development Agency of Latvia provides support to public research organizations for commercialization of research results. Among supported activities are: carrying out a feasibility study, preparation of a commercialization strategy, industrial research, experimental development, participation in international exhibitions, contact exchanges, conferences (seminars) abroad, individual visits and participation in national booths and trade missions, preparation of commercialization offers, attraction of experts and other activities. Read more on StartupLatvia – Science Commercialization website.

Business Travels

Visibility for startups and the ability to build and expand their business network are of high importance. Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA) is offering an opportunity to reach out to investors, clients, and partners. Startup representatives can attend various events all over the globe, conferences, go on trade missions and get co-financed by the government..

Business Incubators

There are 13 LIAA incubators throughout the whole Latvia that support the necessary environment for the set up and development of business by offering training, mentor support and grants, and organizing events on general business issues. Read more on StartupLatvia – Incubators website.

Acceleration Funds

In 2017, the government made a special EUR 15 million acceleration fund (allocated by the European Regional Development Fund during the planning period of EU structural funds 2014-2020) available through ALTUM to support Latvia-based early-stage startups. The fund was then equally divided after a public procurement between three professional funds: Buildit focusing on hardware and the internet of things startups, Commercialization Reactor focusing on deep-tech startups, Overkill Ventures focusing on B2B software startups. There is one more acceleration fund in Latvia – Startup Wise Guys, focusing on B2B Fintech startups. More on StartupLatvia – Acceleration funds website.

Source: lia.gov.lv

The RAISE Project launched
The RAISE Project launched 1024 683 RAISE fosters startup growth and scale-up within and across Europe


In June 2022, SERN kicked off another project – RAISE: The Regions Alliance for Interconnected Startup Ecosystems!

The main goal of the project is to contribute to the development of a new, sustainable, and integrated framework of support that fosters startup growth and scale-up within and across Europe in all its dimensions: from initial funding and research support to public incentives and internationalization.

To meet this ambitious goal, SERN is leading a consortium composed of the European Business Angels Network (EBAN), the European Association of Development Agencies (EURADA), the Foundation FUNDECYT Scientific and Technological Park of Extremadura (FUNDECYT-PCTEX), and International Consortium of Research Staff Associations (ICoRSA). All organisations are active at the European level spanning the whole spectrum of startup support and growth: access to public funding, business angels, research & innovation.

The consortium is starting by setting up the Open Startup Forum to connect the stakeholders in a common space and start creating the conditions for further exchanges and cooperation.
The idea is to build on that platform to create links between the different stakeholders, and then design, implement and track pilot Actions for the promotion of startups and scaleups in the EU.

We keep you posted about RAISE impacts!

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