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Europe’s Startup Crisis, China’s Biotech Boom, and Why Founders Need to Wake Up
There’s a massive shift happening in global innovation right now — and most people aren’t even paying attention. If you’re a founder in Europe, the headlines this week should make you pause.
Vasily Alekseenko
June 04, 2025
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Europe’s Startup Crisis, China’s Biotech Boom, and Why Founders Need to Wake Up
There’s a massive shift happening in global innovation right now — and most people aren’t even paying attention. If you’re a founder in Europe, the headlines this week should make you pause.
The EU just announced a plan to “cut red tape” and create a Scaleup Europe Fund to attract more startups and VC money. Sounds great in theory. But let’s not pretend we didn’t see this coming. Europe’s been struggling for years — and the data is damning.
📉 Europe’s unicorn production is embarrassingly low. The EU creates far fewer billion-dollar startups than the US or China, and the ones that do make it rarely scale fast enough to matter globally. According to the Wall Street Journal, “Europe has a fifth of the venture capital of the US in dollar terms” and productivity is now under 80% of US levels.
So yes, finally admitting there’s a problem is progress — but is a new fund and 48-hour company formation promise really going to solve the cultural, structural, and financial gaps holding the continent back?
🤖 Meanwhile, the US isn’t sleeping — even if the markets are momentarily flat. U.S. productivity is double that of the UK and Eurozone since 2010, and AI-led innovation is only accelerating the gap. Venture capital flows are still stronger, infrastructure is better, and the sheer size of U.S. equity markets gives founders and investors more room to breathe — and scale.
But here’s the real plot twist… 🧬
🇨🇳 China might just leapfrog everyone in biotech.
This week, a string of announcements showed U.S. VCs racing to secure rights to Chinese-developed drug molecules. These aren’t copycat formulas — we’re talking world-class innovation coming out of labs in Beijing and Shanghai. One example? Pfizer just inked a $6B deal with China’s 3Sbio for cancer treatment rights .
Chinese biotechs are faster, leaner, and scrappier — and with a surplus of PhDs and lower costs, they’re turning promising academic research into treatments before many Western firms even wake up. As Lux Capital’s David Yang put it: “The half-life of a good idea in biotech has been shortened. If you have a good idea, you better act on it quickly.”
🔥 Here’s the punchline: Everyone is talking about AI, but the biotech gold rush might become the next frontier war — and China is no longer the underdog.
💡 What founders should take away from all this:
Europe is trying — but it’s late to its own party. The regulatory cuts and new funds are welcome, but the systemic issues (cross-border friction, weak capital markets, risk-averse culture) won’t disappear overnight.
The US still wins on scale, capital, and productivity. Even with political uncertainty and short-term market dips, the fundamentals are too strong to ignore. AI, relaxed regulations, and VC density keep the innovation engine humming.
China is now a serious innovation player. Especially in biotech, where Western VCs are now chasing Chinese founders for IP. That’s a shift no one saw coming five years ago.
If you’re a founder in Europe reading this, you have two options: complain about lack of capital and overregulation — or build something so good the capital comes to you. But stop pretending the playing field is even. It’s not.
If you’re in the US or the UK, don’t get comfortable either. Founders in Shanghai are skipping sleep while you’re doing founder brunch.
And if you’re an investor? Maybe it’s time to look outside your backyard.
🧠 Innovation doesn’t care about borders. It follows speed, capital, and execution. The question is: are you building for the world that was — or the one that’s coming?
It’s time for a POLL (you can also login and leave a comment)😀
Where do you think the next global innovation boom will come from? |
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RAFE FOUNDERS EVENTS ❤️
 | Rare FoundersOpen Mic Pitching & NetworkingOur legendary open mic pitching is back! Join us for a different style of networking and pitching with a smile! Every 30 mins we will pick 5-6 founders (randomly, unless you are our paid member😉) who will have 1 min to pitch to the audience of 200+ attendees. We will make sure our water guns are ready! It will be fun! We will also have a surprise guest who will share hot tips and shortcuts on fundraising during summer. In-person event Blue Marlin Ibiza London, 45 Curtain Rd, London EC2A, 3PT, UK Tue 10 Jun, 18:00 - 22:00 BST |
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OTHER LONDON EVENTS🌟
 | AI KatCreative Sauna & Ice Bath ExperienceWelcome to a one-of-a-kind session curated for creative minds. We’re hosting an exclusive ARC Ritual – a blend of somatic breathing, ice bath reset, and social recharge – just for the ad agency community. In-person event Arc Community - Sauna and Ice Unit 46, Minus, Level -2, 1 Crossrail Pl, London, E14 5AR, UK Thu 5 June, 17:00 - 19:00 BST |
 | Venture Café LondonClimate & ConnectionJoin an evening of climate-focused innovation and collaboration, where founders, researchers, investors, and curious minds come together for panels, live demos, and workshops exploring solutions to the climate crisis. Expect insights on media strategy, ecosystem trends, and breakthrough technologies from across the UK and Europe. In-person event 5 Beaconsfield St, London, N1C 4EW, UK Thu 5 June, 18:00 - 21:00 BST |
 | PLUGGED🚀 Hiring Sprint: How To Build A Killer TeamThis hands-on sprint equips founders with the tools and insights to hire strategically and confidently after raising funding. Through expert-led workshops and practical modules, participants leave with a complete, ready-to-use Hiring Playbook to scale their teams effectively. 50% off for readers! In-person event Gorsuch Pl Area, London, UK Fri 6 June, 09:00 - 18:00 BST |
 | Peer SuitePersonal Branding 101Join an empowering morning focused on elevating personal branding, connection, and professional impact through a keynote and curated networking experience. Attendees gain actionable tools and meaningful introductions in a supportive environment designed for women in finance, law, tech, and beyond. In-person event Farringdon Area, London, UK Fri 6 June, 10:00 - 12:00 BST |
 | ScribeDifferent Ways To Get CapitalThis session explores the key legal and strategic aspects of fundraising, offering practical insights to help startups attract investors and navigate the capital-raising process. Featuring expertise from both corporate law and entrepreneurship, it’s designed for founders looking to strengthen their financial approach. Online event Fri 6 June, 12:00 - 13:00 BST |
 | Love VenturesVC Padel Summer SocialThe VC Padel Summer Social offers an exciting mix of friendly competition and relaxed networking, bringing together top VCs from across the UK and Europe. With a lively padel tournament, BBQ, drinks, and music, it’s a standout gathering designed to spark connections and celebrate the tech ecosystem. In-person event West Brompton Area, London, UK Mon 9 June, 17:00 - 22:00 BST |
 | IntercomStartup MixerJoin an exclusive mixer where founders, investors, and tech leaders connect over music and handcrafted drinks. Attendance is by approved invitation only, with venue details shared after confirmation. In-person event Finsbury Square Area, London, UK Mon 9 June, 19:30 - 21:30 BST |
 | Boost Capital PartnersBuilding Moats in the Age of AIAs AI accelerates innovation and lowers barriers, this event explores what truly makes startups defensible in today’s fast-moving landscape. Through expert panels and candid discussions, attendees gain insights into the evolving concept of a "moat"—from proprietary data to trust and regulation. In-person event Savoy Ct Area, London, UK Tue 10 June, 14:30 - 17:00 BST |
 | SeedLegalsStartup Design, Get It Right: Logo, Landing Page And Pitch DeckThis high-impact, hands-on event explores how design shapes trust, conversion, and investor perception across logos, landing pages, and pitch decks. Attendees receive live feedback from design experts to boost brand clarity, engagement, and credibility. In-person event Hyde Park Corner Area, London, UK Tue 10 June, 16:00 - 19:00 BST |
 | Block DojoBehind the Curtain of the UK Crypto RoadmapJoin an engaging panel event exploring the UK’s crypto and digital asset strategy, featuring insights from industry experts. Attendees can also enjoy networking opportunities with refreshments provided. In-person event 78 Cannon St London, EC4N 6HN, UK Tue 10 June, 18:00 - 20:30 BST |
 | We Are RivalRival SessionsAn exclusive event explores how challenger brands are shaking up marketing with fresh strategies, featuring expert insights, live discussions, and breakthrough campaign stories. Attendees will gain inspiration and practical ideas to rethink their marketing playbook while networking with top industry professionals. In-person event Scrutton Area, London, UK Tue 10 June, 18:00 - 21:30 BST |
 | Sphero NetworkCapturing Value From AIJoin an engaging session exploring how organizations can unlock real business value from AI by overcoming common barriers and leveraging key accelerators. Attendees will gain practical insights into driving performance through AI, followed by networking with fellow professionals. In-person event 73 Piccadilly, London W1J 8HS, UK Tue 10 June, 18:30 - 20:30 BST |
 | Pre-Seed to SucceedPITCH&DRINK LONDON TECH WEEKPitch&Drink brings together early-stage founders and investors for an evening of startup pitches, Q&A sessions, and meaningful networking. Selected startups pitch live to a panel of experienced investors, with opportunities to gain feedback and connect with potential backers. In-person event 1 Warwick Area, London, UK Tue 10 June, 18:00 - 22:00 BST |
 | Pitchflix TVVCs Pitch to You!Join us for a reverse-pitching event where investors and accelerators present their propositions directly to early-stage founders seeking support and funding. The programme features dedicated sessions for both accelerators/incubators and investors, giving founders access to a wide range of opportunities. Use our 25% discount code: RF25 In-person event Canary Wharf, London, E14 5AB, UK Wed 11 June, 14:00 - 19:30 BST |
 | HYPEProduct & PizzaA curated rooftop mixer bringing together engineers, designers, and product leaders for an evening of connection, creativity, and good vibes. Hosted at a Shoreditch co-working space, guests can enjoy beer, pizza, and city views while mingling with fellow builders. In-person event 41 Pitfield St, London, N1 6DA, UK Wed 11 June, 18:00 - 20:00 BST |
 | Founden.xyzFounders' Olympics: Tech Chess TournamentThis London Tech Chess Tournament is part of a high-stakes global series celebrating the launch of a tech gaming newsletter, uniting founders, operators, and investors through 12 curated events across three major cities. Alongside the tournament, the day features pitch-style showcases for accelerators and reverse pitches from investors, all set within a competitive, community-driven environment. In-person event Hoxton Square Area, London, UK Wed 11 June, 19:00 - 22:30 BST |
 | HubSpotAI Founder & Investor BreakfastGather with AI Founders, Investors, Startup Leaders and the wider Startup Ecosystem for a morning of quality networking, breathtaking views and culinary delights. In-person event London, UK Thu 12 June, 08:00 - 10:00 BST |
 | Knowledge QuarterAI for AllJoin this event for a focused exploration of how artificial intelligence is reshaping health and life sciences, emphasizing the critical role of inclusion in AI development. Join expert panels and networking sessions to discover strategies for creating equitable, patient-centered innovations that benefit everyone. In-person event 1 Triton Square, London, NW1 3DS, UK Thu 12 June, 09:30 - 12:30 BST |
 | KorbyDigital Assets, AI&Web3 Conference And Polo EventThis event brings together over 200 leaders from traditional finance, decentralized finance, and Web3 for an engaging experience featuring fast-paced panels, keynotes, and deep-dive roundtables. Attendees gain insights on blockchain protocols, stablecoins, AI-Web3 convergence, institutional adoption, and the future of digital assets, all complemented by a sunset polo and after-party. In-person event Petersham Rd, Richmond, TW10 7AH, UK Thu 12 June, 14:00 - 23:30 BST |
 | Robot MascotHow To Use The Founders Voice To Attract Investor AttentionJoin this workshop to learn how founders can leverage strategic, founder-led communications to build authority, spark investor interest, and elevate their startup’s story during fundraising. It covers aligning messaging with the business mission, positioning the founder as a credible voice, using media effectively, and creating momentum around a raise. Online event Thu 12 June, 15:00 - 15:45 BST |
 | Sclr labsRooftop Investor & Partner MixerAn exclusive rooftop mixer designed for investors and partners, offering curated networking, insider updates, and quality conversations in London’s newest innovation hub. The event brings together a select group to foster meaningful connections and unlock new opportunities for collaboration. In-person event King’s Cross St. Area, London, UK Thu 12 June, 17:00 - 20:00 BST |
 | Brighteye VenturesAspiring Female Partners - Summer MixerAn exclusive evening event designed to empower aspiring female partners in venture capital, featuring insights from a leading tech founder and networking opportunities with women across VC and tech. Hosted by top firms and communities, the gathering promises thoughtful discussion, drinks, and canapés in a vibrant, supportive atmosphere. In-person event Great St. Helen’s Area, London, UK Thu 12 June, 17:30 - 23:00 BST |
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Vasily Alekseenko
Founder
@ Rare Founders
Rare Founders - building the bridge between founders and investors via regular in-person and online events, meetups, conferences.
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