Startup Moldova receives the award on behalf of the Moldovan startup ecosystem
Moldova has been recognised as Europe’s fastest-growing startup ecosystem at the Startup Ecosystem Awards 2026, organised by StartupBlink, a global innovation economy platform and research centre.
Startup Moldova received the award on behalf of the country’s startup ecosystem during the awards ceremony held on 23 September as part of ICT Week Uzbekistan in Tashkent.
According to StartupBlink’s Global Startup Ecosystem Index, Moldova’s population-adjusted total score increased by 91.9% between the 2025 and 2026 editions, representing the highest growth rate recorded in Europe and the third-highest worldwide.
The recognition reflects the year-on-year development of Moldova’s startup ecosystem and its growing capacity to support entrepreneurs, innovation and technology-driven businesses. It also highlights the progress made by startups, investors, support organisations, public institutions and other ecosystem actors working to strengthen Moldova’s position in the regional and European innovation landscape.
For EU4Innovation East, the recognition comes at a time of increased support for Moldova’s startup ecosystem through initiatives focused on access to finance, skills, market opportunities, incubation and acceleration, and stronger connections with European innovation ecosystems.
The Startup Ecosystem Awards are based on StartupBlink’s research and recognise the development and achievements of startup ecosystems worldwide. The 2026 awards ceremony took place during ICT Week Uzbekistan in Tashkent.
About EU4Innovation East
EU4Innovation East is an EU-funded regional programme co-funded by the French Government and implemented by Expertise France. The programme supports innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystems in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine, with a focus on improving access to finance, strengthening skills and support structures, facilitating market access and fostering closer links with European innovation ecosystems.
