Welcome to eu/acc



About us

European Union Flag eu/acc is a decentralised movement to accelerate progress in Europe through innovation, technology, and a Europe-positive mindset.

Within eu/acc, multiple initiatives align under the same goals and principles of acceleration for Europe. The movement is intentionally decentralised, non-partisan, techno-, and Europe-optimistic.


TL; DR:

  • Our mission is to accelerate Europe's progress by fostering an environment where founders and innovators thrive, driven by data-driven discussions, enthusiasm for European potential, and effective policy.
  • We want future generations to live in a Europe that is globally competitive.


Why? Europe needs to wake up

Europe is renowned for its world-class research and exceptional talent. However, it is not always known for providing the best opportunities. The situation has become so dire that in the international startup ecosystem Europe is often the subject of negative memes — perceived as a place that doesn't grow, "only regulates" and where ambitious individuals feel compelled to leave. This perception must change. Europe has the potential to become the world's leading hub of innovation and opportunity, where visionaries can thrive and make their dreams a reality without feeling the need to look elsewhere.


How can we change this?

We need to foster an environment where founders, innovators, and forward-thinkers can thrive. To achieve this, we must address the root causes:


What are the root causes?

The root causes are frequently attributed to a culture less enthusiastic about risk taking, and other non-tangible attributes. We believe that this is an effect and not a cause; "culture" is dynamic and the product of the current system, therefore if we change aspects of the system so that people succeed, we can shift everyone's perspective on success and, consequently, the culture itself.


To achieve this, we focus on three approaches:

  • Data-driven discussion on our problems and finding solutions
  • Cultivating enthusiasm and pride in Europe’s potential as a leader in technology and innovation
  • Promoting effective policy changes, regulatory simplification, and pan-european standardisation


Our Call to Action

  • If you believe in driving progress through pragmatic, data-driven initiatives that liberate our continent’s builders, then you are part of eu/acc.
  • If you believe that technological innovation can lead to societal progress in Europe, you are part of eu/acc.
  • If you believe Europe needs stronger pan-continental collaboration, you are part of eu/acc.


How can you help EU/ACC?

  • Share and talk about European tech on social media
  • Get involved in EU/ACC aligned initiatives
  • Start your own initiative
  • Maybe tackle one of our  10x challenges⁠ 
  • Join the  Discord⁠  community and discuss what we can do to accelerate progress


Our Principles:

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Data-driven Possibilism

We reject Europe or EU doomsday narratives and ungrounded optimism alike, opting instead for a balanced, evidence-based perspective.
Inspired by the work of Hans Rosling, we believe in the power of data to guide us towards a better future:
“As a possibilist, I see all this progress, and it fills me with conviction and hope that further progress is possible. This is not optimistic. It is having a clear and reasonable idea about how things are. It is having a worldview that is constructive and useful.” - Hans Rosling, Factfulness


Political Neutrality

While eu/acc involves political engagement, it is not about partisan politics and is explicitly apolitical in the sense of not favouring any one ideology over another.
We all have our own political opinions; however, we explicitly reject culture wars, especially American-style left vs right tribalism, and fight against political polarisation.
We aim to transcend traditional political divides as this topic is bigger than individual party lines. Our focus is on finding pragmatic solutions, joint efforts of large groups with common causes, and data-driven policies that drive progress.


Being Decentralised

eu/acc is a decentralised ideology and movement, empowering individuals and groups to pursue their own initiatives and ideas. Our motivations are universal across Europe, reflecting widespread support for innovation, progress, and a Europe-positive mindset. We encourage grassroots involvement and leveraging the unique strengths our members. The network-effects of this structure enable momentum building, localised solutions, and quick responses to changes and opportunities, therefore enhancing the movement's overall impact.

While challenges in coordination and coherence will inevitably exist, the benefits of a decentralised approach make it a powerful strategy for achieving eu/acc's goals of improving and accelerating progress in Europe.


Accelerating Innovation and Technology

We embrace innovation and technology as key drivers of societal progress in Europe. We will accelerate by providing the necessary resources and infrastructure for builders to succeed. Europe needs to be excited again about being a leader in innovation and technology.



With Policy-Makers, not against

Criticising politicians and policymakers is easy, and scapegoating the EU is even easier, however, the reality is that many thousands of talented and dedicated people work tirelessly to improve Europe. We aim to collaborate with these committed individuals.
Our primary contribution on this front lies in highlighting policy opportunities and rallying the science, technology, and investor communities behind them.



FAQs:

Are you related to e/acc?

 🇪🇺⁠⁠We are not e/acc for Europe⁠  but Accelerationism for Europe.

Is this about badmouthing the US?:

Our movement is not about constant comparison with others or one-upmanship. It’s about focusing on how we can be better. Naturally, this means we’ll have to compare at times, but our focus is on improving ourselves, not on instigating petty comparisons. Equally, we are not here to promote chauvinism.

Is this about the EU?

Our movement encompasses all of Europe, not just the European Union. However, we recognise that the EU is a significant vehicle for achieving our aims due to its scope, influence, and resources. Without the UK, Norway, Switzerland, and many other non-EU countries, there is no successful Europe and no eu/acc. We sidestep discussions on the EU vs Europe; We use the  flag of Europe  as our symbol, irrespective of its use by organisations such as the EU or the Council of Europe. Our movement is for all who wish to see Europe progress.



Disclaimer

While eu/acc encourages and supports decentralised initiatives and innovation across Europe, each project and activity undertaken by members operates independently. Therefore, eu/acc cannot be held responsible for any individual actions, outcomes, or unintended consequences that may arise from these independent efforts. All participants are expected to adhere to local laws and regulations and act in the best interest of their communities and the movement.