AI
The UK government has deployed an AI agent as part of its Plan for Change agenda.
Officials have released a report on the recent launch of the Humphrey AI system, which was developed to address financial and bureaucratic inefficiencies. The govtech sector is expected to gain momentum, potentially emerging as a major trend among startups.
UK Lords are still advocating for the Data (Use and Access) Bill, with a renewed emphasis on enhancing AI transparency.
The government has faced setbacks in the recent attempt to allow bigtech companies to use copyright materials without disclosure. The document also addresses the topics of scientific research, personal data, and sex data.
NGO noyb criticizes Meta’s intention to collect user data for AI training.
The organization views the tech juggernaut’s actions as a threat to the economy and user privacy. noyb mobilizes its resources and has issued a statement highlighting the primary concerns, calling for regulatory intervention.
Sweden has announced plans to launch 6G infrastructure based on the latest AI-powered solutions.
Sweden’s National AI Cloud is a promising project of Stockholm-based atNorth and 6G AI Sweden collaboration. The datacenter uses Nvidia hardware while implementing innovative greentech solutions to serve as a blueprint for developing sustainable AI infrastructure.
The EU gained access to AI chips after U.S. officials revoked the AI Diffusion Rule.
Another crucial moment for EU digital and AI development marked a renewal of AI chip exports. The recent revisions in the legislative act will strengthen the European efforts in fulfilling objectives from the AI plan by training advanced AI models based on the exported hardware
Startups
Salesforce acquires London-based startup Convergence.
One of the leading AI agent developers has agreed to merge with Salesforce. The deal marks a turning point in Salesforce’s strategy to expand its AI-driven workflow tools.
Space Forge, an ambitious space tech startup, has broken records by securing funding for its Series A round.
While Space Forge has raised $30 million, the secured funds open a new page in UK space tech history. Additionally, the company shared its goal to develop next-gen technologies and materials for semiconductor manufacturing, displaying Space Forge’s commitment to sustainable development.
Optics11 is expected to become a leader in safeguarding Europe’s energy and maritime sectors.
The recently secured €17 million investment allows the startup to continue its promising development of fiber optic sensing technologies. These advanced technologies will enhance the protection of energy grids and vulnerable maritime assets through security and fault detection systems.
Cronofy will change the scheduling SaaS market niche with its new vision of calendar services.
The Nottingham startup Cronofy has successfully secured £15 million in investment to support its unique developments. The company also announces its original vision to revolutionize calendar legacy systems by using the power of modern digital technologies.
The defense tech sector is expected to experience rapid growth: Vertical Aerospace offers a new solution.
The report claims that Vertical Aerospace has successfully commercialized its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology. Moreover, this revolutionary product is expected to support further advancements in the European defense and military sectors.
Finance
Adams Street Partners raises over €270 million while displaying a commitment to developing EU innovations.
Despite the geopolitical struggles and uncertainties, Adams Street has exceeded its fundraising target, underscoring the financial and entrepreneurial potential of the European region. One of the announced goals is to support early-stage companies that advance disruptive technology and healthcare solutions.
Wave Ventures, the largest student-run VC in Europe, has announced its fund at €7 million.
Wave Ventures continues to support Gen Z founders across the Nordics and Baltics. With a strong track record of identifying early-stage talent, the firm has launched its third fund, which tripled the size of its previous one.
A New Opportunity for Greek Startups and Beyond: EIF Invests €20 Million in Marathon Venture Capital
The initial investment aims to revitalize the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Greece and its diaspora, with a focus on supporting B2B tech startups. The fund also seeks to contribute to the broader development of the EU economy. Marathon Venture Capital plans to invest in key sectors including AI, cybersecurity, agritech, defense, and deep tech.
Mercury co-founder and CEO Immad Akhund launched a new fund.
Another ambitious initiative aims to back 60 early-stage startups with a $26 million fund. Immad Akhund, a renowned angel investor, displays his strong commitment to supporting new business founders with innovative ideas.
New York-focused VC firm Work-Bench announced the fourth fund.
Work-Bench has announced plans to support seed-stage founders with a $160 million fund. The venture capital firm focuses on AI and machine learning, cybersecurity, infrastructure, developer tools, as well as both vertical and horizontal enterprise applications.
Marketing & Sales
Good news for Europe’s social commerce market: strong growth is expected in the coming years.
The European market is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 15.6% during 2025-2030. To capitalize on this surge, it is advisable to tailor strategies to local consumer behaviors and regulatory frameworks.
TikTok advertisements violate the Digital Services Act.
TikTok continues to damage its reputation by allowing scam and hybrid threat advertisements on its platform, in violation of the Digital Services Act (DSA). Early findings highlight serious issues with transparency and accountability, prompting a full investigation.
Revival of Analogue Corporate Storytelling.
It is possible to expect a surge of new printed magazines led by major companies and brands. Costco and Microsoft increase their investments in print magazines as a part of their storytelling and branding. This unique decision allows businesses to establish and seize new market opportunities in the era of oversaturated digital content.
Hedra Team has announced a Series A to continue transforming video marketing.
The recent announcement marks a critical timeline for digital marketing. The current development of Character-3, the first omnimodal foundation model, will bring character creation to a new level, expanding opportunities for marketing and sales teams.
Email marketing renaissance: Sender continues to push boundaries of traditional tools.
Sender is a leading company dedicated to making marketing tools affordable and easy to use while maximizing results. It has introduced impressive free plans and continues to empower businesses through advanced solutions to drive engagement, boost conversions, and scale their growth effectively.
