In our response to the European Commission’s 28th Regime public consultation, we emphasised the urgent need for a framework that supports biotech startups and SMEs in launching, scaling, and staying in Europe. The proposal should be a Regulation, built on simplicity, flexibility, speed, and coherence across Member States.

We called for a fully digital, low- or at no-cost incorporation process. Deliverable within 48 hours. Founders should be able to incorporate using a modular platform that allows for both fast registration through harmonised templates and more flexible documents. Removing in-person notary and bank formalities must be a priority.

On attracting and retaining talent, we urged EU-level harmonisation of employee stock options, with taxation as capital gains rather than income and their full tradability. Complemented by fast EU-wide talent mobility procedures, which give clear timelines on Visa applications from non-EU countries, and establish fast-track procedures for known academia and RTOs that excel in biotech research and education.

We also highlighted the need for standardised IP licensing frameworks, IPR-backed financing tools, and founder and investor capacity-building.

Together with a strong and well-designed Innovation Act, a Savings and Investments Union, and a real Single Capital Market, these measures will reduce red tape,  attract funding and top talent, and strengthen Europe as a competitive home for biotech innovation.

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