StrategEast took the stage at this year’s Web Summit, moderating a dynamic panel discussion titled “Policies that Power Startup Ecosystems.” The session brought together senior government officials from Georgia, Portugal, and Cabo Verde to explore how smart, future-focused public policies can fuel innovation, attract global talent, and strengthen national startup environments.
The panel was moderated by Hanna Myshko, Regional Director for the Gulf States, Ukraine, and Moldova at StrategEast, who guided an engaging conversation on how governments can balance regulatory responsibilities with ecosystem-friendly reforms.
The discussion featured three distinguished speakers: Irakli Nadareishvili, Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia; Bernardo Correia, Secretary of State for Digitalization of Portugal; and Pedro Lopes, Secretary of State for Digital Economy of Cabo Verde. Each provided valuable insights into the strategies shaping their countries’ entrepreneurial landscapes.
Portugal’s Bernardo Correia highlighted the nation’s role as one of Europe’s most active architects of pro-startup policies, noting priorities such as the National AI Agenda, major investments in digital skills, and a growing data-center infrastructure. He emphasized how Portugal is working to simplify regulations while ensuring trust and security across emerging tech sectors. Georgia’s Deputy Minister Irakli Nadareishvili shared how initiatives like the Innovative Startup Status – offering zero profit and income tax in the early years – along with major infrastructure projects such as the Kutaisi Tech Hub, are designed to convert early-stage momentum into long-term, sustainable ecosystem development. He also addressed the government’s approach to helping Georgian founders scale globally while staying anchored in the country.
Representing Cabo Verde, Pedro Lopes discussed the nation’s growing reputation as Africa’s digital gateway. He emphasized the impact of fast-track visas, tax incentives, and supportive programs for local and international founders, while highlighting the unique role of the Cabo Verdean diaspora in helping startups expand beyond the country’s small domestic market.
The panel concluded with each speaker sharing a key lesson learned from their national experience – practical insights on what truly works in building a startup ecosystem.
StrategEast is proud to have contributed to this global conversation on digital policy and innovation. The panel underscored a shared reality: when governments invest in smart regulation, talent, and infrastructure, they unlock the full potential of their startup communities.
