Why are we doing this?

Innovation is a critical driver of growth and productivity, and if Europe's economic recovery is to be sustainable, innovation must be at its heart (See Plan I for Europe).

However, it is important to realise that what drives value and creates jobs has been changing dramatically, especially with the arrival of the internet and digital technologies. Disruptive innovation, in particular, is disproportionately driven by young, technology-intensive companies. This makes digital entrepreneurship a policy area of crucial importance. The European Digital Forum aims to deliver thought leadership in transforming the European economy “from coal and steel to wired and digital.

What are we doing?

Nesta is part of the secretariat of the European Digital Forum. In addition, we manage various research projects in support of the initiative, such as the creation of a 'digital readiness index' which compares how well European cities support digital startups.

The background

The European Digital Forum was announced at Davos in January 2014 by Neelie Kroes, Vice-President of the European Commission. The inaugural meeting was held in Brussels in May 2014.

Its creation was inspired by the Leaders Club, an independent group of founders in the field of tech entrepreneurship, and first called for in the Startup Manifesto for entrepreneurial excellence. To find out more visit www.europeandigitalforum.eu