2023/2110(INI) | [ParlTrack]

Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 a (new)

– having regard to the European Parliament Report of 3 October 2018 on "'Distributed ledger technologies and blockchains: building trust with disintermediation" and in particular its paragraphs 22 and 23

Amendment 10 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Josianne CUTAJAR, Carlos ZORRINHO, Romana JERKOVIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Recital B

B. whereas the EU is committed to improving its industrial and technological competitiveness in the global market and recognises the need to reinforce its position through sustained support for the growth of start-ups and scale-ups as those can foster innovation and further the objectives of green and digital transition;

Amendment 100 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Carlos ZORRINHO

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)

11a. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to develop comprehensive plans and strategies on how to harvest technology innovation enabled by start- ups and scale-ups in order to promote competitiveness and reduce emissions.

Amendment 101 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12

12. Calls for the establishment of start- up-friendly regulations and frameworks that facilitate the growth, scalability and cross-border operations of start-ups and scale-ups, while ensuring consumer protection, data privacy and fair competition. Deplores the ever increasing direct and indirect compliance burden by EU legislation for SMEs and the economy as a whole, which is characterised by a significant increase in time and costs, for example by ever-new reporting obligations;

Amendment 102 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12

12. Calls for the establishment of dedicated start- up-friendly regulations and frameworks that facilitate the growth, scalability and cross-border operations of start-ups and scale-ups, while ensuring consumer protection, data privacy and fair competition;

Amendment 103 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)

12a. Emphasises the fundamental importance of creating an inclusive start- up ecosystem that provides equal opportunities and access for all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances; calls on the Commission and the Member States for proactive initiatives and policies that actively promote inclusivity by addressing systemic barriers, biases, and prejudices, fostering a level playing field for underrepresented groups; encourages the development of relevant mentorship programs, networking opportunities as well as educational and other initiatives that specifically target underrepresented groups;

Amendment 104 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)

12a. Welcomes the recent initiative of the German Federal Government to propose a "European Bureaucracy Reduction Initiative" with the aim of introducing a "Bureaucracy Cost Index" for EU regulation. Regrets that there is currently not enough data at EU level to allow for a thorough stocktaking and problem analysis, in order to enable the reduction of red tape in EU regulation for SMEs and the economy as a whole;1a _________________ 1a https://www.bmwk.de/Redaktion/DE/Press emitteilungen/2023/08/20230830- europaeische-entlastungsinitiative-zum- buerokratieabbau.html

Amendment 105 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)

12a. Calls on the Commission to expand support for SMEs, start-ups and scale-ups in navigating regulatory complexity, by expanding programmes to promote legal clinics, for example in the context of Digital Innovation Hubs under the Digital Europe Programme;

Amendment 106 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)

12a. Welcomes the Commission’s announced plan of reducing reporting obligations by 25 %; recalls, however, that more concrete measures are needed and that the planned reduction should apply to current and upcoming legislation;

Amendment 107 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 b (new)

12b. Recalls it’s demand of the creation of a single reporting instrument (2023/2750(RSP), for the inclusion of all reporting requirements under EU legislation, as well as those arising from the Fit-for-55 package, designed with specific requirements and ready-to-use key performance indicators for companies on a flexible basis; emphasises that this instrument should also provide a link to EU tender and funding opportunities and be serving as a one-stop shop consolidating all relevant financial and non-financial support,

Amendment 108 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 b (new)

12b. Stresses the delicate equilibrium required to cultivate a technology landscape that embodies both competition and innovation; is of the view that regulatory mechanisms must adapt and evolve in sync with technological advancements to uphold competitiveness and innovation, especially in relation to European startups;

Amendment 109 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 b (new)

12b. Recommends to introduce English as an additional official business language in all administration related to facilitate the cross-border expansion and administrative ease of start-ups;

Amendment 11 #

Motion for a resolution
Recital C

C. whereas the EU recognises the potential of start-ups and scale-ups to drive innovation, economic growth and job creation within the EU, address societal challenges, promote sustainability and contribute to the objectives set out in the European Green Deal, the digital Europe programme, the new European innovation agenda and the updated EU industrial strategy. Regrets that the EU Green Deal approach is largely based on bans, bureaucracy and detailed targets. Recalls in contrast that the US Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), relies exclusively on market incentives, in order to avoid micro-management and that US legislators pick winners and losers. Is convinced that the IRA approach avoids bureaucratic hurdles and produces a more competitive, sustainable and innovative SME sector in the long run;

Amendment 110 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 c (new)

12c. Advocates for a proactive approach in responding to emerging technologies and market shifts, ensuring that relevant regulatory frameworks are up-to-date and effective;

Amendment 111 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. Recommends the promotion of public-private partnerships, collaboration between start-ups and established companies, and the creation of innovation clusters to foster knowledge transfer, research and development, as well as access to new technology markets; encourages the Commission to further leverage the EIT and its thematic Knowledge and Innovation Communities in this endeavour;

Amendment 112 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. Recommends the promotion of public-private partnerships, collaboration between start-ups and established companies, and the creation of innovation clusters to foster ~~knowledge transfer~~and financially support knowledge and technology transfer activities, research and development, as well as access to new technology markets;

Amendment 113 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)

13a. Calls for strategic partnerships and initiatives that encourage collaboration, knowledge sharing, and resource pooling among academia, industry players, and government agencies, leveraging their collective strengths and expertise; encourages the provision of more targeted grants, low- interest loans, and equity investments by government agencies and private investors, ensuring a sustainable financial support system for start-ups and scale-ups at various stages of growth;

Amendment 114 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 b (new)

13b. Underlines the potential for cross- sectoral innovation to drive breakthrough advancements, enhance competitiveness, and address complex societal challenges by promoting synergies between diverse sectors and industries; emphasises in this regard the critical need to foster cross- sectoral innovation within the European Union's start-up and scale-up ecosystem; advocates for incentives and funding mechanisms to support cross-sectoral projects, allowing start-ups and scale-ups to explore unconventional collaborations and merge diverse expertise, particularly in areas such as renewable energy, biotechnology, smart cities, and cultural and creative sectors and industries;

Amendment 115 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

Amendment 116 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Calls on the Member States and the Commission, where applicable, to establish entrepreneur-friendly tax regimes, incentives and simplified administrative procedures to attract and retain talent, incentivise investment and encourage entrepreneurship;, such as offering tax credits for R&;D, tax incentives for investments in innovation and sustainability, or a reduction in the tax burden in specific areas near research centres in order to create a healthy concentration of start-ups and expertise while simultaneously enhancing the competitive positioning of certain geographical areas, also within the framework of Smart Specialization Strategies.

Amendment 117 #

Elena LIZZI, Paolo BORCHIA, Matteo ADINOLFI, Isabella TOVAGLIERI, Angelo CIOCCA, Gianna GANCIA

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. ~~Calls on~~Encourages the Member States and the Commission, where applicable, to establish entrepreneur-friendly tax regimes, incentives and simplified administrative procedures to attract and retain talent, incentivise investment, also through tax breaks for private investors who decide to support start-ups and scale-ups, and encourage entrepreneurship;

Amendment 118 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Calls on the Member States and the Commission, where applicable, to establish entrepreneur-friendly tax regimes, targeted incentives and simplified administrative procedures to attract and retain talent, incentivise investment and scalability, and encourage entrepreneurship;

Amendment 119 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Calls on the Member States and the Commission, where applicable, to establish entrepreneur-friendly tax regimes, incentives and simplified administrative procedures, including cross-border procedures, to attract and retain talent and digital nomads1a, incentivise investment and encourage entrepreneurship; _________________ 1a Digital nomads are people, often start- uppers, creatives and innovators, who travel freely while working remotely using technology and the internet. Although digital nomads enjoy advantages in freedom and flexibility, they also face challenges include maintaining international health insurance with coverage globally, abiding by different local laws including payment of required taxes and obtaining work visas. They very rarely have access to retirement benefits and unemployment insurance.

Amendment 12 #

Elena LIZZI, Paolo BORCHIA, Matteo ADINOLFI, Isabella TOVAGLIERI, Angelo CIOCCA, Gianna GANCIA

Motion for a resolution
Recital C

C. whereas the EU recognises the potential of start-ups and scale-ups to drive innovation, economic growth and job creation within the EU, address societal challenges, promote a sustainab~~ility and contribute to the objectives set out~~ le pathway for Europe’s energy transition, as well as recognising the ~~European Green Deal,~~ir potential in the digital Europe programme, the new European innovation agenda and the updated EU industrial strategy;

Amendment 120 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Carlos ZORRINHO, Romana JERKOVIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Calls on the Member States and the Commission, where applicable, to establish entrepreneur and angel investors-friendly tax regimes, incentives and simplified administrative procedures to attract and retain talent, incentivise investment and scalability, and encourage entrepreneurship;

Amendment 121 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Calls on the Member States and the Commission, where applicable, to establish ~~entrepreneur-friendly~~ tax regimes, that incentiv~~es and~~ise entrepreneurship and investment, as well as simplified administrative procedures to attract and retain talent~~, incentivise investment and encourage entrepreneurship~~;

Amendment 122 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)

14a. invites the Member States to increase investments in training and education by creating study programs and courses focused on entrepreneurial and technological skills, while also integrating lifelong learning initiatives for entrepreneurs already active in the sector, particularly for scale-ups.

Amendment 123 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Josianne CUTAJAR, Carlos ZORRINHO

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)

14a. Highlights the significant impact late payments have on cash flow for start- ups and scale-ups and the use of digital solutions to facilitate increased invoice transparency and faster invoice payments

Amendment 124 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)

14a. Underscores the urgency to bridge the perceived talent gap and create an ecosystem where talent is not only abundant but also fully integrated into the technology sector;

Amendment 125 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 b (new)

14b. Highlights the imperative of nurturing a robust tech ecosystem throughout Europe, providing enticing opportunities and a conducive environment to retain talent; emphasises the urgent necessity to substantially invest in technology-centric education and training programs, aligning curricula with evolving industry demands; notes in this regard that the Digital Education Action Plan, European Universities initiative and the European Education Area more broadly can be expanded to inter alia further faciliate establishment of strategic collaborations between academic institutions and industries to ensure graduates are well-prepared and equipped with the necessary skills demanded by the dynamic job market;

Amendment 126 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 c (new)

14c. Calls for mechanisms to mitigate risks associated with international expansion, ensuring that start-ups and scale-ups have the necessary support and guidance to navigate uncertainties inherent in global markets;

Amendment 127 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Urges the Commission and the Member States to support initiatives that promote digital skills, cooperation, knowledge sharing, entrepreneurship and mentorship at all levels of education, equipping individuals with the necessary knowledge and competencies to thrive in the digital age;, including STEM skills; in this regard, calls for support for the development of mentoring and consulting programs to help start-ups and scale-ups effectively navigate the numerous post- financing challenges, such as resource management and strategic planning

Amendment 128 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Ivo HRISTOV, Carlos ZORRINHO

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Urges the Commission and the Member States to support initiatives that promote digital skills, open innovation, cooperation, knowledge sharing, exemplary cases as a driver for innovation, company training, corporate venture capital, entrepreneurship and mentorship at all levels of education, equipping individuals with the necessary knowledge, culture, and competencies to thrive in the digital age thus improving the economic and social resilience of the UE;

Amendment 129 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Urges the Commission and the Member States to support initiatives that promote digital and industrial skills, cooperation, knowledge sharing, entrepreneurship and mentorship at all levels of education, equipping individuals with the necessary knowledge and competencies to thrive in the digital age, and allowing for the creation of a pan- European start-up visa;

Amendment 13 #

Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)

Ca. whereas fostering cross-sectoral innovation, encouraging collaboration and knowledge exchange among diverse industries, is imperative for driving creativity, efficiency, and transformative growth within the start-up and scale-up landscape;

Amendment 130 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)

15a. Acknowledges that individuals with innovative and disruptive ideas often face significant financial barriers when starting their businesses, including the challenge of accessing adequate funding; Calls on the Commission and Member States to recognize the challenges encountered by individuals with innovative and disruptive ideas in starting businesses and startups, especially financial difficulties and limited access to initial funding. Therefore, urges them to explore and evaluate the possibility of developing programs and initiatives that facilitate access to funding for individual entrepreneurs, including measures that simplify the funding application processes and reduce administrative barriers, to promote and support initiatives aimed at creating a more favourable entrepreneurial environment for individual innovators, including disseminating information on funding opportunities, providing technical assistance, establishing support networks, and to examine best practices within the EU and in other countries in the field of support for individual entrepreneurship in order to identify effective strategies to address financial challenges.

Amendment 131 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Josianne CUTAJAR, Carlos ZORRINHO

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)

15a. Urges the Commission and the Member States to finance communication campaigns to promote the jobs in digital and industrial environments, with a specific focus on attracting more female talents in these sectors

Amendment 132 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)

15a. Notes with concern that the EU as a whole has fewer undergraduate study programmes in AI than some much smaller countries; believes there is a need for a targeted approach at the EU level to rectify this;

Amendment 133 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)

15a. Urges the Member States to develop regional and national reward mechanisms and tax incentive systems for start-up and scale-up projects of public interest;

Amendment 134 #

Morten LØKKEGAARD, Morten PETERSEN, Martina DLABAJOVÁ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 b (new)

15b. Encourages the seamless integration of sustainability as an intrinsic theme within the operations of start-ups and scale-ups, emphasising their imperative role in adhering to eco-friendly practices and, where relevant, actively contributing to the principles of the circular economy;

Amendment 135 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16

16. Urges the Commission to include start-ups and scale-ups in its skills and talent programmes and to highlight the opportunities that start-ups and scale-ups provide for young graduates, including employment; highlights the current need to attract skilled workers to start-ups, scale-ups and SMEs, including possibly from outside the EU; in this regard, acknowledges the potential in simplifying procedures in Member States for qualified, skilled workers applying for jobs in sectors with low unemployment;

Amendment 136 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16

16. Urges the Commission to include start-ups and scale-ups in its skills and talent programmes and to highlight the opportunities that start-ups and scale-ups provide for young graduates, including employment; believes that the existing Union education programmes and initiatives, most notably Erasmus+, can be leveraged for the objectives;

Amendment 137 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)

16a. Highlights the importance of attracting, recruiting and retaining competent staff for start-ups and scale- ups; stresses that, in times of tight EU labour markets for skilled employees, facilitating the recruitment of international talent is essential; praises, in this context, the removal of qualification and skill requirements for IT talent and the right to intra-EU mobility within the updated Blue Card Directive; believes further unification of the 27 EU labour markets and a more unified migration code, establishing much needed channels for labour migration at all skills level, will increase attractiveness of the Union for international talent;

Amendment 138 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Josianne CUTAJAR, Carlos ZORRINHO, Romana JERKOVIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)

16a. Stresses the importance of safeguarding the principle of non- discrimination, promoting diversity and inclusivity within the start-up and scale up ecosystem, ensuring equal opportunities for all, including young people, established professionals and underrepresented groups

Amendment 139 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 b (new)

16b. Urges the Commission to set up the EU Talent Pool initiative as open, expression-of-interest-based model, matching European vacancies with international talent from all skill levels and all countries of origin; calls on the Commission to embed this in a wider “Make it in Europe” marketing campaign aimed at attracting international talent;

Amendment 14 #

Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)

Ca. whereas start-ups and scale-ups are currently hindered by lack of internal market integration, regulation discrepancies and excessive administrative burdens

Amendment 140 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 c (new)

16c. Underlines the importance of visa applications not taking longer than three months to ensure security in hiring for European start-ups; praises the introduction of single point-of-contacts for visa applications and integration administration in several larger municipalities;

Amendment 141 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 d (new)

16d. Calls on the Commission to review the overall potential benefit of allowing for employer–sponsored visa to be fast- tracked for additional fees, as long this leads to more capacity and faster procedures for all applicants;

Amendment 142 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 e (new)

16e. Calls on the Commission to remove the barriers to cross-border remote work as well as to cross-border work in general, such as by supporting the digitalisation of all necessary permit procedures;

Amendment 143 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17

17. Recommends the est~~ablishment~~rengthening of regional start-up ecosystems that ~~support local entrepreneurship,~~bring together local universities, entrepreneurs, companies and public sector entities, including via innovation hubs and incubators, ~~and~~to leverage each region’s strengths and resources; calls on the Commission to better coordinate between place-based innovation policy and excellence-driven innovation policy at Union level;

Amendment 144 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17

17. Recommends the establishment of regional start-up ecosystems that support local entrepreneurship, innovation hubs and incubators, and leverage each region’s strengths and resources; urges national and regional governments to provide state guarantees for start-ups running projects of public interest to ensure their overregulation;

Amendment 145 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Josianne CUTAJAR, Carlos ZORRINHO

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17

17. Recommends the establishment of regional start-up ecosystems that support local entrepreneurship, innovation hubs and incubators, and leverage each region’s strengths and resources; Recommends that such regional start-up ecosystems become a forum for ecosystem leaders to exchange ideas and best practices

Amendment 146 #

Elena LIZZI, Paolo BORCHIA, Matteo ADINOLFI, Isabella TOVAGLIERI, Angelo CIOCCA, Gianna GANCIA

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17

17. Recommends the establishment of regional start-up ecosystems that support local entrepreneurship, innovation hubs and incubators, and leverage each region’s strengths and resources; encourages these regional start-up ecosystems to provide opportunities for ideas and best practices to be exchanged;

Amendment 147 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17

17. Recommends the establishment of regional start-up ecosystems that support local entrepreneurship, innovation hubs and incubators, and leverage each region’s strengths ~~and resour~~, whilst at the same time facilitating access to finances;

Amendment 148 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17

17. Recommends the establishment of regional start-up ecosystems that support local entrepreneurship, accelerators, venture builders, innovation hubs and incubators, and leverage each region’s strengths and resources;

Amendment 149 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Ivo HRISTOV, Josianne CUTAJAR, Carlos ZORRINHO

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)

17a. Notes the success stories of start- up ecosystems in other regions, such as Silicon Valley, Tel Aviv, and Shenzhen, and the lessons learned from their experiences,

Amendment 15 #

Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)

Ca. whereas the business needs and specific challenges of start-ups and scale- ups are often different in nature from those of established SMEs;

Amendment 150 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Josianne CUTAJAR, Carlos ZORRINHO, Romana JERKOVIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 b (new)

17b. Encourages the Commission and Member State to put in place measures and initiatives that foster an innovation ecosystem by enhancing the cooperation between academia, national labs, larger businesses, funding agencies and enabling consortia building.

Amendment 151 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18

18. Encourages the Commission to consider further measures to open up government and public sector data sets, enabling real-time data insights that empower better decision-making and drive innovation for start-ups and scale- ups;deleted

Amendment 152 #

Elena LIZZI, Paolo BORCHIA, Matteo ADINOLFI, Isabella TOVAGLIERI, Angelo CIOCCA, Gianna GANCIA

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18

18. Encourages the Commission to ~~conside~~assess the need for further measures to open up government and public sector data sets, in compliance with current regulations and in line with the European data strategy, enabling real-time data insights that empower better decision- making and drive innovation for start-ups and scale-ups;

Amendment 153 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18

18. Encourages the Commission to consider further measures to open up government and public sector data sets, in line with international standards and supporting open data, enabling real-time data insights that empower better decision- making and drive innovation for start-ups and scale-ups;

Amendment 154 #

Ivars IJABS, Christophe GRUDLER, Klemen GROŠELJ, Martina DLABAJOVÁ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18

18. Encourages the Commission to consider further measures to open up government and public sector data sets and encourage the public use of open source software, enabling real-time ~~data~~ insights that empower better decision-making and drive innovation for start-ups and scale-ups;

Amendment 155 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18

18. Encourages the Commission to consider further measures to open up government and public sector data sets, always protecting personal data, enabling real-time data insights that empower better decision-making and drive innovation for start-ups and scale-ups;

Amendment 156 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Carlos ZORRINHO

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)

18a. As part of the Financial Data Access Framework, calls on the Commission to work with industry to establish consistent and harmonised standards for financial datasets and a framework ensuring a more trusted, efficient, and innovative financial data sharing across businesses, third parties and governments to promote sound financial management of small businesses

Amendment 157 #

Ivars IJABS, Christophe GRUDLER, Martin HOJSÍK, Klemen GROŠELJ, Martina DLABAJOVÁ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)

18a. Calls on the Commission to take advantage of the recently adopted Data Act and Data Governance Act to foster a European-led ecosystem of market places for non-personal data; suggests to develop frameworks to harmonise the treatment of data sets as assets in financial accounting and reporting;

Amendment 158 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Carlos ZORRINHO

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19

19. Urges the Commission to consider additional measures to ensure that start-ups and scale-ups are able to access and use data for research and to apply AI technology to solve ~~day-to-day~~ challenges, and that they benefit from the widest possible range of public and private data sets; to contribute to the objectives of the green and digital transitions

Amendment 159 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19

19. Urges the Commission to consider additional measures to ensure that start-ups and scale-ups are able to access and use data for research and to apply AI technology to solve day-to-day challenges, and that they benefit from the widest possible range of public and private data sets, whilst protecting data of a sensitive nature;

Amendment 16 #

Motion for a resolution
Recital C b (new)

Cb. whereas fostering an inclusive start-up ecosystem is paramount, underscoring the significance of diversity in teams and leadership as a catalyst for innovation, creativity, and resilience;

Amendment 160 #

Elena LIZZI, Paolo BORCHIA, Matteo ADINOLFI, Isabella TOVAGLIERI, Angelo CIOCCA, Gianna GANCIA

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19

19. Urges the Commission to ~~conside~~assess the need for additional measures to ensure that start-ups and scale-ups are able to access and use data for research and to apply AI technology to solve day-to-day challenges, and that they benefit from ~~the widest possible range of public and private data sets~~public and private data sets, in compliance with current regulations and in line with the European data strategy;

Amendment 161 #

Ivars IJABS, Christophe GRUDLER, Martin HOJSÍK, Klemen GROŠELJ, Martina DLABAJOVÁ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19

19. Urges the Commission to consider additional measures to ensure that start-ups and scale-ups are able to access and use data for research and to apply ~~AI technology~~algorithms to solve day-to-day challenges, and that they benefit from the widest possible range of public and private data sets;

Amendment 162 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)

19a. Highlights the importance of streamlining and implementing the ‘once only’ principle for data sharing between administrations and the ‘digital by default’ principle in administrative procedures, both at EU and Member State level; believes the standardisation and digitalisation of procedures and forms, in line with these principles, will significantly help start-ups and scale-ups by reducing administrative burdens in the long-term; calls on the Commission and Member States to make progress on implementing these principles;

Amendment 163 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Josianne CUTAJAR, Carlos ZORRINHO

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)

19a. Encourages the Commission to ensure the swift, harmonised and effective implementation of recent digital regulations, notably the Digital Services Act, the Digital Markets Act, the Data Act and the upcoming Artificial Intelligence Act, to assess the financial and administrative costs imposed on start-ups and scale-ups to evaluate their impact and effectiveness.

Amendment 164 #

Morten LØKKEGAARD, Morten PETERSEN, Martina DLABAJOVÁ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20

20. Calls for the development of efficient and transparent mechanisms to facilitate access to public procurement contracts, based on sustainability criteria, resilience and reduced use of critical raw materials, for start-ups and scale-ups, encouraging their participation in the provision of innovative solutions to public sector challenges;

Amendment 165 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Josianne CUTAJAR, Carlos ZORRINHO, Romana JERKOVIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)

20a. Encourages the Commission to appoint start-up and scale-up contact points in relevant DGs to better coordinate dedicated policies

Amendment 166 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21

21. Implores the Commission to develop and adopt a ‘Start-up Test’, along the same lines as the SME Test that it adopted in 2021, in order to better assess the impact of legislation focusing on innovation, financing and competitiveness; welcomes the Commission President’s proposal to establish a competitiveness check by an independent board for new EU legislation; insists that this competitiveness check focusses explicitly and separately on start-ups, scale ups and SMEs;

Amendment 167 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21

21. I~~mplor~~nvites the Commission to ~~develop and adopt~~consider a ‘Start-up Test’, along the same lines as the SME Test that it adopted in 2021, in order to better assess the potential impact of Union legislation focusing on innovation, financing and competitiveness; underlines the importance of legal clarity in regulatory texts, as well as mechanisms to limit compliance costs for start-ups and scale ups;

Amendment 168 #

Elena LIZZI, Paolo BORCHIA, Matteo ADINOLFI, Isabella TOVAGLIERI, Angelo CIOCCA, Gianna GANCIA

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21

21. Implores the Commission to develop and adopt a ‘Start-up Test’, along the same lines as the SME Test that it adopted in 2021, in order to better assess the impact of legislation focusing on innovation, financing and competitiveness, and ensure that there is not overregulation discouraging the creation and development of start-ups in Europe;

Amendment 169 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Ivo HRISTOV, Josianne CUTAJAR, Carlos ZORRINHO, Romana JERKOVIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21

Amendment 17 #

Motion for a resolution
Recital C b (new)

Cb. whereas European competitiveness is lagging behind other developed economies, threatening Europe’s potential to generate wealth and prosperity

Amendment 170 #

Ivars IJABS, Christophe GRUDLER, Martin HOJSÍK, Klemen GROŠELJ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)

22a. Calls for a significant reduction of regulatory burdens created by overly complex administrative procedures and reporting obligations, and a balanced approach of EU legislation regarding fostering growth, entrepreneurship and green transition; calls for the consistent application of the ‘think small first’ principle in internal deliberations;

Amendment 171 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)

22a. Stresses the importance of strictly applying the ‘SME test’ to implement the ‘Think Small First’ principle in all relevant legislative proposals and policy initiatives, in order to ensure proportionate impact assessments; calls on the Commission to consistently apply the SME test in impact assessments and closely monitor its implementation;

Amendment 172 #

Ivars IJABS, Klemen GROŠELJ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)

22a. Calls on the Commission to devote particular attention to the situation of start-ups and scale-ups and to design future legislation in such a way as to improve conditions for these undertakings;

Amendment 173 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 b (new)

22b. Welcomes new better regulation tools and the ‘one in, one out’ principle, but believes even more ambition is needed on regulatory simplification; calls therefore for the introduction of a ‘one in, two out’ approach in relevant legislation in order to effectively reduce regulatory burdens, especially for start-ups and scale-ups; believes this simplification is essential to foster innovation and competitiveness;

Amendment 174 #

Ivars IJABS, Christophe GRUDLER, Martin HOJSÍK, Klemen GROŠELJ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 b (new)

22b. Urges for the application of the ‘one in, one out’ principle with view on current and upcoming Legislation and the ‘once only’ principle regarding reporting obligations;

Amendment 175 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 c (new)

22c. Calls on the Commission to explore the creation of a voluntary pan- European credit referral system for start- ups and scale-ups rejected for bank loans, to help identify alternative appropriate market-based financing options such as venture capital and crowdfunding; stresses the need to expand initiatives like VentureEU to attract greater private investment in start-ups and scale-ups and start-ups in the long term; urges the Commission to encourage Member States to enhance tax incentives for business angels and investors in new start-ups and scale-ups, based on common criteria on size and duration of investment; calls on the Commission to examine best practices in this domain across the EU and provide recommendations to promote a common framework.

Amendment 176 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23

23. Urges the Commission to ~~include the~~better consider the specific concerns and challenges of start-up and scale-up ~~sector~~companies in the consultation procedures for new legislative initiatives in order to ensure that the proposed measures are relevant to their needs, enable growth and are necessary to promote innovation in the EU and boost the EU’s industrial and technological competitiveness;

Amendment 177 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)

23a. Calls on the Commission to assess the suitability of CE standards and certification processes, as well as the associated costs of access to harmonized standards, in relation to the establishment and growth of start-ups, scale-ups and EU-funded initiatives, including cascade funded SMEs. This assessment should encompass products created using additive manufacturing/3D printing (such, but not limited to, as spare parts, medical devices, toys, construction materials, and 3D printed buildings) and other digital production methods. Moreover, it should investigate the feasibility of introducing regulatory or legislative "sandboxes." Additionally, the evaluation should include an impact analysis of current regulations' effects on market entry for products utilizing digital manufacturing technologies, particularly focusing on, but not limited to, additive manufactured products. This should address the barriers hindering the full exploitation of the remarkable adaptability and cost-efficiency offered by digital manufacturing systems for product customization and "digital craftsmanship";

Amendment 178 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Carlos ZORRINHO, Romana JERKOVIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)

23a. Urges the Commission to accelerate the execution of its action plan for the Capital Markets Union to increase liquidity on European public markets and incentivise scale-ups to list on European stock exchanges.

Amendment 179 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)

23a. Asks the Commission to apply a “think small first” principle across all relevant policy areas, in order to create legislation that spurs growth and development for start-ups and scale-ups;

Amendment 18 #

Motion for a resolution
Recital C c (new)

Cc. whereas robust digital infrastructure and widespread connectivity are fundamental prerequisites and essential enablers of inclusive digital innovation for start-ups and scale-ups; whereas there are significant regional differences within the EU in this regard; whereas there is a need for further investment and advancements in digital infrastructure to keep pace with evolving technologies and for the EU to remain at the forefront of innovation on the global stage;

Amendment 180 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 b (new)

23b. Calls on the Commission to evaluate the use of blockchain and other Distributed Ledger Technologies for advanced EU Intellectual Property protection and certification procedures and standards, with the goal of harmonizing the different present and future legal frameworks among the Member States. Takes note of EUIPO, the European Union Intellectual Property Office, launching the first blockchain- based service for public institutions to protect intellectual property in April 2021 and introducing this innovation in its Strategic plan 2025.

Amendment 181 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 c (new)

23c. Highlights the necessity of aligning, modernizing, and customizing intellectual property protection procedures and regulations to accommodate technological developments and the fast changing environment in which start-ups and scales up operates. Underlines in particular the adaptability, traceability, and royalty management opportunities of both digital and physical products enabled by digital manufacturing and craftsmanship, design, and traceability systems.

Amendment 19 #

Motion for a resolution
Recital C d (new)

Cd. whereas out of ten transversal technologies including AI, quantum computing and cloud, European leads in only two;1a _________________ 1a Securing Europe's competitiveness: Addressing its technology gap, McKinsey, 2022.

Amendment 2 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Josianne CUTAJAR, Carlos ZORRINHO

Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 a (new)

– having regards to the European Innovation Council (EIC) established under the Horizon Europe Regulation (EU) 2021/695).

Amendment 20 #

Motion for a resolution
Recital C e (new)

Ce. whereas the regulatory environment should be designed in a way to stimulate innovation, promote healthy competition, and ensure maximum benefits for consumers;

Amendment 21 #

Motion for a resolution
Recital C f (new)

Cf. whereas there are noticeable historical disparities between the investment cultures of Europe and other regions of the world, notably in venture capital (VC) and angel investment;

Amendment 22 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1

1. Calls on the Commission, in close cooperation with the Member States, to propose harmonised and expansive definitions of a start- up and a scale-up respectively~~, taking into account how they differ from one another and the clear distinction between them and SMEs~~; is of the view that the definitions must be meticulously formulated, considering their subtleties and the clear differentiation from SMEs, with the goal of encompassing a wide scope in order to prevent inadvertent exclusion of any potential start-ups or scale-ups due to restrictive definition; notes that distinctive features of a start- up, inter alia, are rapid growth potential and innovation;

Amendment 23 #

Ivars IJABS, Christophe GRUDLER, Martin HOJSÍK, Klemen GROŠELJ, Martina DLABAJOVÁ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1

1. Calls on the Commission, in cooperation with the Member States, to propose harmonised definitions of a start- up and a scale-up respectively, taking into account how they differ from one another and the clear distinction between them and SMEs. However seeking to strike a balance between standardization and flexibility, given that there is no one-size- fits-all definition that can capture the complexity of the entrepreneurial landscape;

Amendment 24 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Carlos ZORRINHO

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1

1. Calls on the Commission, in cooperation with the Member States, to propose harmonised and broad definitions of a start- up and a scale-up respectively, based on scalability and taking into account how they differ from one another and the clear distinction between them and SMEs;

Amendment 25 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1

Amendment 26 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)

1a. Stresses that, in market economies, the primary mechanism to finance businesses’ capital needs, including those of start-ups and scale-ups is via private debt and equity markets; urges the completion of the Capital Markets Union to mobilise private capital and improve cross-border movement of such capital within the Union; calls on the Commission to facilitate the listing of scale-ups on European stock exchanges, including by harmonising reporting standards, listing requirements and disclosure rules for small-cap and entry standard listings;

Amendment 27 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)

1a. Calls on the Commission, Member States and local governments to make business climate and competitiveness a priority on their political agendas;

Amendment 28 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 b (new)

1b. Calls on the Commission and Member States to further coordinate their respective efforts to attract private capital in start-ups and scale-ups to cross the successive “valleys of death” and fill the respective gaps;

Amendment 29 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 c (new)

1c. Is of the view that the policy tool of equity investment by public institutions, in particular, should remain an exception and should, as a general guiding principle, address only market failures;

Amendment 3 #

Motion for a resolution
Citation 8 a (new)

– having regard to the European Parliaments Joint resolution on the state of the SME Union (2023/2750(RSP) from 12 July 2023 and the following Commission Communication of 12 September 2023 on Championing Europe's SMEs: Commission provides new relief to boost the competitiveness and resilience of SMEs, namely SME Relief Package (COM(2023) 535 final).

Amendment 30 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. ~~Expresses concern about the fact~~Notes that various communications have been published by the EU institutions on start- ups, despite no concrete definitions of a start-up and a scale-up having been adopted yet;

Amendment 31 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)

2a. Expects the Commission to take utmost care of the interests of start-ups and scale-ups in competitive market access when evaluating exemptions from state aid rules, merger-control rules and loosening of competition policy provisions;

Amendment 32 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3

3. Is worried that the failure to adopt proper definitions hinders the effectiveness of existing policies and legislation; notes that, although start-ups and SMEs have some overlapping interests, they differ substantially once they enter the fundraising and growth phase; believes, therefore, that simply classing start-ups as SMEs, without a clear division, limits their growth, access to markets and investment opportunities; Calls on the Commission and Member States to introduce this distinction into their work, such as in the context of statistics, and to establish a dedicated network of advisors for scale- ups in the framework of the EEN;

Amendment 33 #

Ivars IJABS, Christophe GRUDLER, Martin HOJSÍK, Klemen GROŠELJ, Martina DLABAJOVÁ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3

3. Is worried that the failure to adopt proper definitions hinders the effectiveness of existing policies and legislation; notes that, although start-ups and SMEs have some overlapping interests, they differ substantially once they enter the fundraising ~~and growth phase~~, growth and maturity phase; moreover, start-ups encompass elements of uncertainty and high risk of failure, and rely on ecosystems and different class of investors; believes, therefore, that simply classing start-ups as SMEs, without a clear division, limits their growth, access to markets and investment opportunities;

Amendment 34 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3

Amendment 35 #

Morten LØKKEGAARD, Morten PETERSEN, Martina DLABAJOVÁ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3

3. Is worried that the failure to adopt proper definitions ~~hinders~~can undermine the effectiveness of existing policies and legislation; notes that, although start-ups and SMEs have some overlapping interests, they differ substantially once they enter the fundraising and growth phase; believes, therefore, that simply classing start-ups as SMEs, without a clear division, limits their growth, access to markets and investment opportunities;

Amendment 36 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Is convinced that dedicated definitions will increase the opportunities for support through measures that are tailored to the specific features of start-ups and scale-ups and boost their access to European capital markets and private investors; calls on the Commission to develop a comprehensive European start- up and scale-up strategy that addresses the challenges faced by start-ups and scale-ups in the EU, such as unnecessary administrative burdens; however, emphasizes the crucial need to avoid a narrow definition of start-ups and scale- ups, which risks distorting competition for some European businesses;

Amendment 37 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Josianne CUTAJAR, Carlos ZORRINHO

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Is convinced that dedicated definitions will increase the opportunities for support through measures that are tailored to the specific needs and features of start-ups and scale-ups ~~and~~by boosting their access to European capital markets and private investors; calls on the Commission to develop a comprehensive European start- up and scale-up strategy that promotes innovation and addresses the challenges faced by start-ups and scale-ups in the EU;

Amendment 38 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Is convinced that dedicated definitions will increase the opportunities for support through measures that are tailored to the specific features of start-ups and scale-ups and boost their access to European capital markets and private investors; calls on the Commission to develop a comprehensive European start- up and scale-up strategy that addresses the challenges faced by individual innovators, founders, start-ups and scale-ups in the EU;

Amendment 39 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Josianne CUTAJAR, Carlos ZORRINHO, Romana JERKOVIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)

4a. Calls on the Commission, in cooperation with the Member States, to assess how start-ups and a scale-ups respectively can contribute to the EU’s decarbonisation objectives and factor in their role in planning processes such as the National Energy and Climate plans

Amendment 4 #

Motion for a resolution
Recital -A (new)

-A. whereas a central aspect of successful entrepreneurial activity is the ability to provide competitive products or services to customers at profitable scale, implying for policy makers that the most effective path to promote start-ups and scale-ups in the Union is to facilitate market entry, business expansion and access to capital;

Amendment 40 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Carlos ZORRINHO, Romana JERKOVIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Calls on the Commission and the Member States, as part of the upcoming SME relief package, to identify ways to introduce further financial incentives a~~imed at promoting the adoption of technology by start-ups and scale-up~~nd explore synergies between national and European initiatives aimed at promoting technology innovation and dissemination by start-ups and scale-ups in the private and the public sectors;

Amendment 41 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Calls on the Commission and the Member States, as part of the upcoming SME relief package, to identify ways to introduce further financial ~~incentives~~and regulatory incentives (such as sandboxes) aimed at promoting the adoption of technology by start-ups and scale-ups;

Amendment 42 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Calls on the Commission and the Member States, as part of the upcoming SME relief package, to identify ways to introduce further ~~financial~~ incentives ~~aimed at~~ promoting ~~the adoption of technology by start-ups and scale-ups~~products and services commercialised by start-ups and scale-ups, including in public procurement;

Amendment 43 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Calls on the Commission and the Member States, as part of the upcoming SME relief package, to identify ways to introduce further financial and tax incentives aimed at promoting the adoption of technology by start-ups and scale-ups;

Amendment 44 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Calls on the Commission and the Member States, as part of the ~~upcoming~~ SME relief package, to identify ways to introduce further financial incentives aimed at promoting the adoption of technology by start-ups and scale-ups;

Amendment 45 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)

5a. Expresses its appreciation for President Von Der Leyen’s announcement during the 2023 State of the EU address regarding the appointment of an EU SME envoy; further emphasises the necessity for this envoy to undertake a comprehensive analysis and furnish periodic reports on the status of European start-ups and scale-ups, encompassing their daily hurdles and predicaments;

Amendment 46 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)

5a. Welcomes the Commission’s commitment on the “one in - one out” principle as a first step to stem the tide of new regulation, but reminds that it merely maintains status quo;

Amendment 47 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 b (new)

5b. Calls on the Commission to present a roadmap towards achieving a reduction of at least 30 percent of regulatory burdens affecting start-ups and scale-ups, in order to decrease cost pressure and promote competitiveness;

Amendment 48 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6

6. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to develop comprehensive policies, regulations and strategies that are aligned with the European start-up and scale-up initiative and foster a favourable environment for start-ups and scale-ups, encompassing access to finance, regulatory simplification and/or regulatory ladders, talent retention and acquisition, and support for de-risking and internationalisation;

Amendment 49 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6

6. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to develop comprehensive policies, regulations and strategies that are aligned with the European start-up and scale-up initiative and foster a favourable environment for start-ups and scale-ups, encompassing access to finance, avoiding excessive regulation and striving towards regulatory simplification, talent retention and acquisition, and support for internationalisation;

Amendment 5 #

Motion for a resolution
Recital -A a (new)

-Aa. whereas start-ups and scale-ups are characterised by limited personal resources and a comparatively limited ability to comply with complex regulatory regimes or funding procedures;

Amendment 50 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Ivo HRISTOV, Carlos ZORRINHO, Romana JERKOVIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6

6. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to develop comprehensive policies, regulations and strategies that are aligned with the European start-up and scale-up initiative and foster a favourable environment for start-ups and scale-ups, by reducing administrative burden and encompassing access to finance, regulatory simplification, talent retention and acquisition, and support for internationalisation;

Amendment 51 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6

6. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to develop comprehensive policies, regulations and strategies that are aligned with the European start-up and scale-up initiative and foster a favourable environment for start-ups and scale-ups, encompassing access to finance and technology, regulatory simplification, talent retention and acquisition, and ~~support for~~ internationalisation; through the Digital Single Market.

Amendment 52 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6

6. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to develop comprehensive policies, regulations and strategies that are aligned with the European start-up and scale-up initiative and foster a favourable environment for start-ups and scale-ups, encompassing access to finance, regulatory simplification, further tax incentives, talent retention and acquisition, and support for internationalisation;

Amendment 53 #

Elena LIZZI, Paolo BORCHIA, Matteo ADINOLFI, Isabella TOVAGLIERI, Angelo CIOCCA, Gianna GANCIA

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6

6. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to develop comprehensive ~~policies, regulations and strategies that are aligned with~~strategies that support the European start- up and scale-up initiative, while avoiding overregulation, and foster a favourable environment for start-ups and scale-ups, encompassing access to finance, regulatory simplification, talent retention and acquisition, and support for internationalisation;

Amendment 54 #

Angelika NIEBLER

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)

6a. Recognizes that historically, Europe has faced challenges arising from a risk-averse investment culture, impeding start-ups in securing vital early-stage funding necessary for their growth and development; emphasizes the urgency to bridge this gap and facilitate a conducive environment for start-ups to access essential early-stage funding; highlights the role of institutional investors, such as pension funds and insurance companies, to allocate a portion of their portfolios to venture capital, providing a vital source of long-term funding for start-ups; recalls that the implementation of the Directive (EU) 2019/1023 on preventive restructuring frameworks and second chances aims at changing the risk averse culture in Europe;

Amendment 55 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)

6a. Is convinced that setting up the conditions for innovative businesses to operate in a simple, clear and predictable environment is key to secure their ability to grow and scale-up in the Internal market as the possibility to access a wider market will increase their ability to attract investors,

Amendment 56 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)

6a. Stresses the importance of policy frameworks that facilitate and support collaboration, removing bureaucratic hurdles and providing the necessary incentives to promote active participation from all stakeholders within the innovation ecosystem;

Amendment 57 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 b (new)

6b. Emphasises the fundamental challenge faced by European start-ups in accessing adequate finance, hindering their growth potential and ability to innovate at scale; urges governments, financial institutions, and private investors to collaborate and develop strategies to cultivate a more risk-tolerant investment culture;

Amendment 58 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 b (new)

6b. Is convinced of the need to raise the awareness about the importance of IP in boosting the development of start-ups;

Amendment 59 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 c (new)

6c. Recognises that historically, Europe has faced challenges arising from a risk-averse investment culture, impeding startups in securing vital early-stage funding necessary for their growth and development; emphasises the urgency to bridge this gap and facilitate a conducive environment for start-ups to access essential early-stage funding; highlights the role of institutional investors, such as pension funds and insurance companies, to allocate a portion of their portfolios to venture capital, providing a vital source of long-term funding for start-ups;

Amendment 6 #

Motion for a resolution
Recital -A b (new)

-Ab. whereas a weakening of state aid and competition rules in the Union increases barriers to market entry for start-ups and scale-ups and thus hinders the competitive allocation of capital based on merit;

Amendment 60 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 c (new)

6c. Is of the view that the Unitary Patent reform is a good example of the way these principles shall be implemented in the interest of start-ups as it provides the latter with uniform protection across all participating countries on a one-stop- shop basis, thus reducing administrative burdens while a single jurisdiction will secure consistency in case law, So far more than 35% of the European EPO applicants that have requested the UP effect are SMEs, compared to 20% for ordinary European patents. Half of these SMEs are startups

Amendment 61 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 d (new)

6d. Calls on European and national decision-makers to secure that any initiative undertaken both at national and European level of the European Union are designed along these principles and calls on the Member states who have not ratified the unitary patent (UPC) agreement to do so.

Amendment 62 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 d (new)

6d. Calls on the European Commission and Member States to collaborate with financial institutions and industry stakeholders to establish a coordinated strategy for improving access to finance, setting measurable targets and regularly assessing progress;

Amendment 63 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 e (new)

6e. Calls for a comprehensive approach to address the regional disparities and barriers that impede access to finance within the European start-up ecosystem, recognising the diverse financial landscapes across Member States and regions;

Amendment 64 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 f (new)

6f. Recognises the current financial landscape, where start-ups face difficulties in accessing targeted funding due to bureaucratic hurdles and prolonged waiting periods post-grant approval; highlights the necessity to improve the existing EU funding structure, particularly the establishment of dedicated funding programmes, attuned to the distinctive requirements of start-ups, ensuring appropriate financial support is more easily available and not subject to undue administrative burden; stresses, in particular, the need to expedite the disbursement of approved funds, minimising the waiting period between grant approval and fund receipt;

Amendment 65 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 g (new)

6g. Recognises that current financial mechanisms often lack accessibility and fail to adequately cater to the unique needs and dynamics of the cultural and creative sectors and industries (CCSI); calls for the development of specialised financing schemes designed to support the growth, innovation, and sustainability of ventures within the CCSI, ensuring that they have equitable access to funding essential for their development and success;

Amendment 66 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 h (new)

6h. Notes the role of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology for supporting European start-up scene; believes, however, that there is a need for more efforts in this regard and, especially, targeted focus on industries that are underserved, particularly CCSI;

Amendment 67 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 i (new)

6i. Underlines that in addition to being a bedrock upon which modern economies thrive, digital infrastructure acts as a catalyst for fostering innovation by providing a conducive environment for start-ups and scale-ups to develop and deploy cutting-edge technologies; stresses the significance of bridging the digital divide, ensuring equitable access to digital infrastructure across urban and rural areas, to enable inclusivity and equal opportunities for all start-ups and scale- ups;

Amendment 68 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 j (new)

6j. Encourages Member States and the Commission to prioritise investments in digital infrastructure, adopting a forward-thinking approach that supports the growth and sustainability of start-ups and scale-ups, while bolstering Europe's digital leadership;

Amendment 69 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. ~~Welcom~~Notes the creation of the European Innovation Council Fund to support innovative start-ups; reiterates its concerns regarding issues in the implementation of the EIC Accelerator, and is particularly concerned about the lack of transparency with respect to the methods of capital allocation in the EIC and about the lack of accountability of the fund’s managers; stresses the risks of conflicts of interest inherent to its logic of intervention; reminds that private capital allocation usually involves intense due diligence processes and risk-return assessments; points out the concern that investing public taxpayer funds at lower due diligence standards or higher risk tolerance crowds out private investment, thereby undermining the long-term prospect of European start-ups; calls on the Commission to publish and explain its due diligence and risk assessment procedures for equity investment, and to regularly report on the decisions taken;

Amendment 7 #

Motion for a resolution
Recital A

A. whereas the Commission has various initiatives in place aimed at promoting entrepreneurship, innovation and digital transformation in the EU, such as the start-up and scale-up initiative, the digital decade and the digital single market strategy, as well as funding programmes dedicated to innovation across various policy streams, notably cohesion policy and research and innovation policy ;

Amendment 70 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Welcomes the creation of the European Innovation Council Fund to support innovative start-ups; calls for the Fund to have regard for geographical balance and pay special attention to widening countries that are currently financially underserved; urges the EIC to take proactive steps to address the significant disparity between widening and non-widening countries, as evidenced by the data;1a is of the view that these measures are crucial to ensure a fair distribution of funding and opportunities for startups across various ecosystems. _________________ 1a Based on EIC data from 2021-2022, it is evident that 70% of the available EIC funding is directed to only 6 out of the 28 Member States. Conversely, the Widening countries, comprising 15 nations and constituting 33% of the EU population, receive less than 10% of the funding. This pattern highlights a preference for companies from more established ecosystems, potentially widening the gap between well-established and less developed regions. There is an acute need for remedial actions, such as setting a minimum funding target for Widening countries or granting extra evaluation points if the proposal coordinator hails from a Widening country, to foster a more equitable allocation of EIC funding and support startups in less advanced ecosystems.

Amendment 71 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Welcomes the creation of the European Innovation Council Fund to support innovative start-ups, however is worried about criticisms about the slow EU funding bureaucracy, which lacks the necessary efficiency of its operations, given that start-up in the past had to wait years for funding, making it impossible to grow at the same pace as US competitors. Deplores that it remains very tough to build a scalable deeptech company in the EU;

Amendment 72 #

Morten LØKKEGAARD, Morten PETERSEN, Martina DLABAJOVÁ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Welcomes the creation of the European Innovation Council Fund to support innovative start-ups, designed to enable Deep-Tech Start-Ups and SMEs to develop their innovation from an early idea to a marketable product, as well as to scale up the company;

Amendment 73 #

Elena LIZZI, Paolo BORCHIA, Matteo ADINOLFI, Isabella TOVAGLIERI, Angelo CIOCCA, Gianna GANCIA

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Welcomes the creation of the European Innovation Council Fund to support innovative start-ups, designed to ensure easy access, fast transfer and effective use of these means;

Amendment 74 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Josianne CUTAJAR, Carlos ZORRINHO, Romana JERKOVIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Welcomes the creation of the European Innovation Council Fund to support innovative start-ups; and bring new funding opportunities, ensuring that the processes to apply and the use of the EICF are startup-friendly

Amendment 75 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Welcomes the creation of the European Innovation Council Fund to support innovative start-ups; emphasizes the need for sufficient funding to boost start-ups in the EU;

Amendment 76 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Josianne CUTAJAR, Carlos ZORRINHO, Romana JERKOVIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)

7a. Emphasises the critical role of start-ups and scale-ups in fostering innovation and technological advancement across various sectors, including digital technologies, artificial intelligence, clean energy, biotechnology, and advanced manufacturing

Amendment 77 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 b (new)

7b. Acknowledges that according to the EPO’s Deep Tech Finder, more than 10% of the European start-ups that have applied for European patents have already benefited from EIC funding.

Amendment 78 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Calls on the Commission to support and facilitate the participation of innovative start-ups and scale-ups in EU funding programmes and projects contributing to the twin green and digital transition; therefore calls on the Commission to ensure easier access and application processes to EU funding opportunities and tenders as well as a better, faster and easier outflow of funds through all EU funding programs, e.g. for Horizon Europe, the European Innovation Council Fund, or the Single Market Program (SMP) COSME programme, the programme for the Competitiveness of Enterprises and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs);

Amendment 79 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Calls on the Commission to support and facilitate the participation of innovative start-ups and scale-ups in technologically neutral EU funding programmes and projects contributing to ~~the twin green and digital transition~~economic growth, sustainability and innovation, while constantly making efforts to reduce red-tape and unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles of the programmes;

Amendment 8 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Josianne CUTAJAR, Carlos ZORRINHO

Motion for a resolution
Recital A

A. whereas the Commission has various initiatives in place aimed at promoting entrepreneurship, innovation and digital transformation in the EU, such as the start-up and scale-up initiative, eco- innovation scoreboard, Knowledge & innovation Communities (KICs), the European cluster collaboration platform, the digital decade and the digital single market strategy, ;

Amendment 80 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Calls on the Commission to support and facilitate the participation of innovative start-ups and scale-ups ~~in EU~~from across the EU in Union funding programmes and projects contributing to the twin green and digital transition;

Amendment 81 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Calls on the Commission to support and facilitate the participation of innovative start-ups and scale-ups in existing and future EU funding programmes and projects contributing to the twin green and digital transition;

Amendment 82 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Calls on the Commission to ~~support~~focus its efforts on fast-tracking the harmonisation of capital markets across the Union, and on facilitateing the participation of ~~innovative~~ start-ups and scale-ups in EU funding programmes ~~and projects contributing to the twin green and digital transition~~;

Amendment 83 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)

8a. Calls on the Commission to provide a roadmap for the development of SME chapters to strengthen their dimension and reduce regulatory burden in future international trade agreements; underlines that better regulation principles should be also applied to the ratification of all trade and investment agreements as well as the implementation and enforcement of all trade- and investment-related legislative acts;

Amendment 84 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Josianne CUTAJAR, Carlos ZORRINHO, Romana JERKOVIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)

8a. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to assess the barriers which start-ups and scale-ups face in accessing finance and tailor funding application processes in a way that allows project developers to easily access finance.

Amendment 85 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Josianne CUTAJAR, Carlos ZORRINHO, Romana JERKOVIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 b (new)

8b. Calls on the Commission to explore ways in which start-ups and scale- ups can be supported in follow-up planning for implementing the innovations they have developed.

Amendment 86 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9

9. Notes the EU’s objectives concerning the Net Zero Industry Act2 and calls on the Commission to consider how additional ~~fiscal incen~~initiatives could be put forward for start-ups and scale-ups, in ~~order to encourage investments in net- zero technologies and participation in net- zero projects and facilitate the deployment of net-ze~~volved in EU industrial value chains to further benefit from t~~echnologies in EU industrial value chains;~~he global cleantech race; _________________ 2 Commission proposal of 16 March 2023 for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on establishing a framework of measures for strengthening Europe’s net-zero technology products manufacturing ecosystem (Net Zero Industry Act) (COM(2023)0161).

Amendment 87 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Josianne CUTAJAR, Carlos ZORRINHO, Romana JERKOVIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9

9. Notes the EU’s objectives concerning the Net Zero Industry Act2 and calls on the Commission to consider how additional fiscal incentives could be put forward ~~for~~to increase the competitiveness of European start-ups and scale-ups, in order to encourage investments in net-zero technologies and participation in net-zero projects and facilitate the deployment of net-zero technologies in EU industrial green value chains; _________________ 2 Commission proposal of 16 March 2023 for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on establishing a framework of measures for strengthening Europe’s net-zero technology products manufacturing ecosystem (Net Zero Industry Act) (COM(2023)0161).

Amendment 88 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Josianne CUTAJAR, Carlos ZORRINHO

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10

10. Urges the Commission to enhance the funding mechanisms for start-ups and scale-ups, including public procurement and the provision of grants, loans and venture capital, and to explore the possibility of optimising and/or reorienting existing funds to target European start-ups and scale-ups more effectively, including special call for projects for deeptech and greentech and the possibility of establishing a dedicated European start-up and scale-up fund;

Amendment 89 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10

10. Urges the Commission to enhance the funding mechanisms for start-ups and scale-ups, including public procurement and the provision of grants, loans ~~and venture capital, and to explore the possibility of establishing a dedicated European start-up~~ , guarantees, while taking care not to crowd out private investment, and to reorient existing funds to target European start-ups and scale-ups more effectively; calls on the Commission to act as launch- customer by dedicating a share of its own procurement to Europeand scale-up ~~fund~~s;

Amendment 9 #

Morten LØKKEGAARD, Morten PETERSEN, Martina DLABAJOVÁ

Motion for a resolution
Recital B

B. whereas the EU is committed to improving its industrial and technological competitiveness in the global market ~~and~~, reduce its dependency from third countries and lead in the green and digital transitions and thus recognises the need to reinforce its position through sustained support for the growth of start-ups and scale-ups;

Amendment 90 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10

10. Urges the Commission to enhance the funding mechanisms for start-ups and scale-ups, including public procurement and the provision of grants, loans and venture capital, access to capital through crowdfunding, and to explore the possibility of establishing a dedicated European start-up and scale-up fund;

Amendment 91 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10

10. Urges the Commission to enhance the funding mechanisms for start-ups and scale-ups, including public procurement and the provision of grants, loans and seed and venture capital, and to explore the possibility of establishing a dedicated European start-up and scale-up fund;

Amendment 92 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)

10a. Highlights the need to protect and promote access for start-ups and scale-ups to public procurement processes, such as in the context of the digitalisation of public administrations, to foster the creation of a dynamic and competitive European digital sector; in this context calls for allocating at least 10% of digital Union public procurement contracts to start-ups and scale-ups;

Amendment 93 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 b (new)

10b. Encourages regulation that allows funds, insurances and other institutional investors to invest a significant portion of new investment mandates in start-ups and scale-ups; supports a EUR 100 million EIB investment scheme to back infrastructure investment loans for start- ups and scale-ups engaged in the green and digital transitions, subject to conditions;

Amendment 94 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. ~~Encourages~~Reminds the catalytic role that targeted public support, in the form of grants, loans or loan guarantees, plays in bridging the funding gap for infrastructure and manufacturing capacity for start-ups and scale-ups, particularly in cases where private investments are insufficient or unavailable; encourages, therefore, the European Investment Fund and national development banks to increase ~~their investments in~~financial support to start-ups and scale-ups, ~~particularly those operating in emerging and high-potential sector~~through the provision of loan guarantees and the de-risking of manufacturing scale-ups through manufacturing guarantees;

Amendment 95 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. Encourages the European Investment Fund and national development banks to increase their investments in start- ups and scale-ups, particularly those operating in emerging ~~and~~, high-potential ~~sectors~~and technology sectors, in particular in the fields of EU energy and climate resilience and digital transformation;

Amendment 96 #

Elena LIZZI, Paolo BORCHIA, Matteo ADINOLFI, Isabella TOVAGLIERI, Angelo CIOCCA, Gianna GANCIA

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. Encourages the European Investment Fund and national development banks to increase their investments in start- ups and scale-ups, particularly those operating in emerging and high-potential sectors and whose share capital is primarily owned by under 35s;

Amendment 97 #

Tsvetelina PENKOVA, Patrizia TOIA, Robert HAJŠEL, Lina GÁLVEZ, Ivo HRISTOV, Carlos ZORRINHO

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. Encourages the European Investment ~~Fund and~~Bank group, including the European Investment Fund as well as national development banks to increase their investments in start-ups and scale- ups, particularly those operating in emerging and high-potential sectors;

Amendment 98 #

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. Encourages the European Investment Fund and national development banks to equitably increase their investments in start- ups and scale-ups, ~~particularly~~including those operating in emerging and high-potential sectors;

Amendment 99 #