The launch of Deep Tech Momentum (DTM) marks a significant milestone in Europe’s deeptech landscape, promising to elevate the continent’s position in global technological innovation. Established in 2022 by Isabelle Flanagan and Martin Schilling, DTM is set to transform Europe into one of the world’s premier deeptech ecosystems. This initiative arrives timely, following remarks from key European leaders like Mario Draghi, Robert Habeck, and Emmanuel Macron, who have underscored the imperative for Europe to close its innovation gap and secure technological sovereignty.
The Vision Behind Deep Tech Momentum
Founding and Motivation
Isabelle Flanagan and Martin Schilling, with their extensive backgrounds in deeptech, were inspired to create DTM after observing a dire need for more coordinated support for deeptech founders in Europe. Their work with Techstars’ deeptech Berlin program highlighted Europe’s potential, yet revealed significant gaps in the ecosystem, especially in terms of capital and customer access for deeptech startups. Recognizing the urgency to address these gaps, Flanagan and Schilling embarked on a mission to not only identify the challenges but also to devise practical solutions.
Their concerted efforts led to the establishment of DTM, aiming to provide a cohesive platform that bridges the innovation and investment divides in Europe. Over the course of three editions, DTM has shown remarkable progress, positively impacting more than 800 founders, securing over €120 million in investment, and establishing strategic partnerships across the continent. This substantial growth underscores the critical need for and the success of the initiative, setting a robust foundation for the future.
The Ecosystem Challenge
One of the most pressing issues Flanagan and Schilling identified is the migration of talented life sciences founders to the U.S., driven by the allure of better capital and customer support. This brain drain poses a significant threat to Europe’s ability to cultivate a robust deeptech ecosystem. The founders recognized that for Europe to maintain its edge and foster homegrown innovation, it must enhance its technological infrastructure, particularly in crucial areas such as defense technologies.
DTM’s approach is multifaceted, focusing on creating an environment that not only attracts but retains deeptech talent. By leveraging their experience from Techstars Berlin, where they supported over 70 deeptech startups, Flanagan and Schilling aim to replicate and expand upon that success at a pan-European level. Their strategic vision includes addressing the systemic issues that drive talent away, thereby strengthening Europe’s position in the global tech arena.
Pillars of Deep Tech Momentum
Flagship Conferences
DTM operates through its flagship conferences, providing deeptech startups with unparalleled opportunities for networking, learning, and growth. These bi-annual deeptech bootcamps are designed to immerse founders in a rigorous environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. The conferences bring together key stakeholders from across the ecosystem, including investors, corporate partners, and thought leaders, creating a dynamic platform for exchange and partnership.
The conferences are not just about connection but also about content. They offer an array of workshops, seminars, and sessions led by industry experts, covering various facets of deeptech innovation. This immersive experience equips founders with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the complex landscape of deeptech, from securing investments to scaling their ventures. By creating a centralized hub of activity and learning, DTM’s flagship conferences play a pivotal role in advancing Europe’s deeptech ecosystem.
AI-Driven Digital Marketplace
In addition to its physical events, DTM has developed an AI-driven online platform that serves as a comprehensive digital marketplace for Europe’s deeptech ecosystem. This platform includes a meticulous database of Europe’s deep technologies, facilitating targeted matchmaking between deeptech startups, investors, and corporate entities. The AI-powered system ensures that relevant startups are matched with potential investors and partners, optimizing the likelihood of successful collaborations.
The digital marketplace targets eight critical deeptech verticals essential to Europe’s future: novel AI, bio builders, clean energy, smart mobility, industrial tech in robotics, future of computing, new space & resilience, and advanced materials. By focusing on these areas, DTM positions itself at the forefront of technological advancement, ensuring that European deeptech startups have access to the resources and networks necessary to thrive. The platform also democratizes access to capital and customer networks, empowering deeptech founders to innovate without the traditional barriers of limited networks.
A Sustainable Future for European Deeptech
Equitable Access and Support
DTM aims to democratize the deeptech landscape by ensuring equitable access to capital and support networks for all founders, regardless of their background or initial network. By leveling the playing field, DTM ensures that innovation is not stifled by inequalities and that all promising startups have a fair chance to succeed. This approach not only benefits individual entrepreneurs but also strengthens the overall ecosystem by fostering a more inclusive and diverse range of innovations.
Flanagan and Schilling’s emphasis on equitable access is driven by a recognition that innovation thrives in diverse environments. By providing the necessary support and opportunities, DTM helps unlock the full potential of Europe’s deeptech talent pool. This inclusive model aligns with broader European goals of sustainability and technological sovereignty, ensuring that the continent’s innovations contribute positively to societal and planetary health.
Long-Term Vision
The launch of Deep Tech Momentum (DTM) marks a pivotal milestone in Europe’s deeptech scene, aiming to elevate the continent’s position in global technological innovation. Established in 2022 by visionaries Isabelle Flanagan and Martin Schilling, DTM aspires to transform Europe into a leading hub for deeptech ecosystems. This initiative arrives at a crucial moment, following statements from key European leaders including Mario Draghi, Robert Habeck, and Emmanuel Macron. These leaders have emphasized the urgent need for Europe to bridge its innovation gap and achieve technological sovereignty to remain competitive on the world stage. Europe’s deeptech sector has immense potential, and DTM’s launch signifies a concerted effort to harness this potential. By fostering growth, collaboration, and investment in cutting-edge technologies, DTM aims to propel Europe to the forefront of the deeptech revolution. This concerted effort is vital for Europe to secure its place in the rapidly evolving tech landscape and ensure its technological future.
