A startup is like a treasure at the bottom of the ocean. Beneath the surface lies wealth — ideas, technology, a team, and early users. Everything is in place, but no one on the surface can see it yet. The ocean is full of obstacles: the pressure of competition, the murky waters of the market, and the unpredictable currents of the economy. To bring this “treasure” to light and let it be valued, you need the right tool. In 2026, that tool in Central Europe is venture capital — an underwater expedition with lights and technology that reveals a startup’s true value to the world.
What do the current numbers show?
- In Q1 2025, Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) attracted €700 million in venture investments — almost a quarter of which came from a single round: €170 million for Polish AI startup ElevenLabs.
- In Q2 2025, startups in the region closed 144 funding rounds worth around €640 million.
- There are approximately 3,800 VC-backed startups in CEE, including more than 275 scale-ups and 57 unicorns.
How to prepare your expedition to the treasure?
- Show traction. Even a few months of activity, first clients, or market feedback can prove your product’s value.
- Build a financial model and a map. Define where you’ll be in 6, 12, and 24 months; how you’ll use the investment; and how you plan to scale geographically or by product line.
- Build a capable team. If you’ve made mistakes, show what you’ve learned. Highlight strong partners and mentors who help you “rise from the depths.”
- Prepare your evidence. A pitch deck, one-pager, key metrics, unit economics, MVP, or prototype — anything that proves your “treasure” is real and valuable.
- Network and trust. Investors are more likely to trust founders introduced through people they already trust. Conferences, accelerators, and business schools are excellent sources of such connections.
What will change in 2026?
- AI reality. Projects that use artificial intelligence to improve efficiency — in logistics, fintech, healthcare, and sustainable production — will get priority.
- “Smart growth” over “growth at all costs.” Funds will demand transparency, clear unit economics, and a realistic path to profitability.
- Global mindset with local roots. Investors seek companies born in Central Europe but thinking on a European or global scale.
Where to look for funding?
- Venture capital funds (VC). Provide large investments, networks, mentorship, and scaling opportunities.
- Debt financing. Doesn’t dilute ownership and works well for revenue-generating projects.
- Grants (EU or national). Offer “soft” funding for research and development.
- Angel investors. Wealthy individuals who invest faster and more flexibly than funds; they value personal contact and are ready to take risks.
- Corporate partnerships and corporate venture. Provide market access, infrastructure, and strategic support.
Summary
The world has experienced the shock of a pandemic, the explosion of AI technologies, and waves of inflation and stagnation. As a result, the number of early-stage deals has dropped, conditions have tightened, and funds have become more demanding about metrics. Western investors increasingly require proof of scalability.
Investors in Central Europe no longer believe in “ideas on a napkin” — they are looking for teams that take real steps and aren’t afraid to grow.
That’s why business schools have become a key resource: they teach how to turn ideas into concrete actions and bring the “treasure” from the depths to the surface.