How policymakers can better support (InsurTech) start-ups?

Start-ups are powerful engines of breakthrough innovation and technologies that can drive economic dynamism and growth.

However, their success depends on access to appropriate funding, supportive policy frameworks, and robust innovation ecosystems.

The OECD recently outlined four evidence-based strategies that policymakers can implement to help start-ups thrive:

1. Maintain a diverse funding environment

2. Promote co-operation while reducing dependencies

3. Promote entrepreneurship stemming from scientific research

4. Support green start-ups

While I agree with all of these, I believe there’s something more—something deeper that needs to be addressed.

We are now discussing in this continent: How do we make Europe a true AI continent? How do we make it competitive, innovation-first? How do we achieve meaningful regulatory simplification?

Maybe I’m biased because of my background—or maybe even a bit naïve—but to me, the solutions lie elsewhere. They’re harder to tackle, because they require long-term change.

First, we need to encourage a stronger entrepreneurial mindset (yes, this is coming from someone who spent 15 years in the public sector). That means normalizing failure, encouraging responsible risk-taking at all levels, and fostering a culture that embraces bold thinking.

Most importantly, we should be more confident and proud—because there is a lot going well in Europe, including in tech and innovation.

There are no shortcuts here. Acknowledging this might be the first step. And of course, many ongoing and planned initiatives can help.

Take, for example, the discussion around the "28th start-up regime"—a single pan-European start-up entity. Or the idea of strengthening the supervisory community to better support early-stage FinTech/InsurTech start-ups as they navigate complex regulatory environments (I think we can do more there to be honest!).

But above all: let’s be proud. Let’s take risks. And let’s acknowledge that failure is a normal and necessary part of progress.