#Europe #Slovenia #IEDC #Bled #Future 500

Future 500 Forum: Shaping the Future of European Business

On September 1, 2025, the highly anticipated Future 500 Forum will unfold at the IEDC – Bled School of Management in Slovenia. This initiative is set to gather a prestigious assembly of European policymakers, investors, and leading entrepreneurs, all with the goal of nurturing the next generation of global champions in the region. Co-led by the Atlantic Council and the IEDC, alongside collaborations with the Bled Strategic Forum and other key organizations, the Future 500 seeks to identify and support 500 high-potential scale-up companies from Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe.

A Timely Initiative Amidst Global Challenges

The launch of the Future 500 Forum arrives at a critical juncture for Europe, which is under increasing pressure to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving global economy. The strategic approach of Future 500 aims to spotlight emerging leaders from the region and bolster their visibility and access to essential resources, including capital and partnerships. This initiative is not just about recognition; it is a structured effort to ensure that Europe's entrepreneurs are equipped to become significant players on the world stage.

The Future 500 Forum will host high-level discussions featuring influential figures, including policymakers, founders of successful startups, and top investors. The event promises to unveil the first cohort of remarkable scale-up leaders from the continent and outline a long-term strategy for fostering collaboration between business, investment, and public policy.

Building Connections for Growth

The speaker lineup includes notable personalities such as Jozef Síkela, European Commissioner for International Partnerships; Edi Rama, the Prime Minister of Albania; and various successful entrepreneurs who have established impactful businesses in Europe. Their insights and experiences will provide guidance to aspiring founders looking to scale their ventures.

Stjepan Orešković, Chair of the IEDC's Supervisory Board and one of the proponents of the Future 500 initiative, emphasizes the importance of showcasing European talent: "The Future 500 initiative is a long-overdue wake-up call. It’s not just about highlighting hidden champions; it’s about empowering them to become global players. We are here to provide the necessary support—capital, visibility, and strategic connections—to ensure their success."

The drive towards fostering entrepreneurial talent has never been more needed. Jörn Fleck, Senior Director at the Atlantic Council's Europe Center, remarked on the immense potential in Central and Southeastern Europe. "This region is teeming with untapped opportunities; our mission with Future 500 is to bridge the gap between innovation and investment, ensuring these groundbreaking ventures are recognized as critical drivers of economic growth."

Looking Ahead

The Future 500 Forum not only aims to unveil new opportunities for entrepreneurs but also strives to facilitate an ecosystem where collaboration flourishes between startups and policymakers. The initiative fosters an environment where visionaries can interact directly with decision-makers, ensuring that strategies align with the needs of the entrepreneurial community.

As the technology and business landscape continues to shift, the Future 500 Forum stands out as a beacon of hope and progress for Europe, marking the continent’s commitment to not just survive but thrive in the global market.

For further details regarding the event and the Future 500 platform, visit future500forum.com.