EU4Innovation East was proud to support this strategic initiative aimed at connecting Armenian and European investors, founders, and ecosystem leaders. The congress provided meaningful opportunities for knowledge exchange, international investment, and long-term cooperation—establishing itself as a space where innovation is showcased and actively fostered.
The event opened with welcome remarks from:
- Gevorg Papoyan, Minister of Economy of Armenia
- HE Vassilis Maragos, EU Ambassador to Armenia
- Julien Schmitt, Project Director, EU4Innovation East
- Jacopo Losso, Director, EBAN
- Françoise Jacob, UN Resident Coordinator
- Sona Veziryan, President, BANA
Speakers emphasized Armenia’s growing role as a connector between European investors and regional innovation opportunities, while underscoring the importance of building inclusive and resilient ecosystems.
Throughout the congress, participants engaged in six panel discussions and three roundtable sessions addressing key themes shaping the startup landscape. Topics included the challenges and opportunities for women entrepreneurs, diaspora engagement, fundraising strategies for international investors, the role of angels in supporting portfolio companies, public-private co-investment fund models, and best practices in ecosystem development and policy innovation across Europe.
A standout moment was the showcase of four innovative Armenian startups—Kartes Analytica, Qualia Therapeutics, CoinPlus, and Caselens—each presenting breakthrough solutions and reflecting the depth of local talent. The program also featured speed dating and networking sessions, fostering direct connections between investors and founders, and culminated in a gala dinner at the iconic Megerian Carpet venue, blending strategic engagement with cultural immersion.
Beyond the formal agenda, the congress offered participants a deeper understanding of Armenia’s entrepreneurial spirit. Through curated experiences and ecosystem interactions, international guests gained firsthand insight into the country’s human capital and its emergence as a forward-looking hub for innovation and investment.
This event aligns closely with EU4Innovation East’s mission to strengthen early-stage financing for startups across the Eastern Partnership. It supports one of our core goals: building bridges between ecosystems and fostering long-term collaboration. We were especially pleased to bring European angel investors closer to one of the world’s fastest-growing tech hubs.
The congress spotlighted the importance of women’s leadership in innovation and investment. The emphasis on empowering women-led startups and expanding the presence of women in angel networks reflects a shared commitment to inclusive growth. Promoting gender diversity across the startup and investor landscape is essential to building stronger, more resilient ecosystems.
Ultimately, the Gateway to EU Congress served not only as a networking forum but as a strategic accelerator for investment, mentorship, and regional cooperation.
The congress was co-organized by BANA Angels, STAN (Science and Technology Angels Network), and AICA (Angel Investor Club of Armenia), in partnership with EBAN – the European Business Angel Network. It was supported by the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Armenia, funded by the Government of Armenia, by the EU4Innovation East project, funded by the European Union, co-funded by the French Government, and implemented by Expertise France; as well as by UN Women Armenia.
