Europe’s tech scene has long lagged behind the U.S., but a new initiative called Project Europe is betting on the next generation to close the gap. Launched as a collaboration between venture firms 20VC, Adjacent, and Point9 Ventures, this program is on a mission to back bold Gen Z founders—those under 25—who are ready to build game-changing, tech-driven startups. With €200,000 in funding and a network of top-tier mentors up for grabs, it’s being dubbed Europe’s answer to the Thiel Fellowship. So, what does it take to snag a spot in 2025? Project Europe’s CEO, Kitty Mayo, recently shared the inside scoop on what they’re looking for—and what could tank your application.
The deal is straightforward: accepted founders get €200,000 for 6.66% equity, plus access to masterclasses and guidance from over 140 European tech heavyweights, including the minds behind ElevenLabs and Synthesia. The vision? Create a tight-knit ecosystem where today’s young innovators become tomorrow’s mentors, fostering a cycle of growth across hubs like Paris, Berlin, and Tallinn. Mayo sees it as a grassroots movement to rethink entrepreneurship in Europe, starting with digital-native Gen Zers who live and breathe tech.
So, how do you apply? Mayo says the key is a pitch that’s sharp and to the point. “We want the raw essentials: What’s the problem, what’s your unique angle to solve it, and why are you the one to pull it off?” she explained. Forget flashy decks overloaded with jargon—keep it concise, ideally under 10 slides, and let your idea shine. Bonus points if you’ve got a prototype or some real-world proof of your hustle, like a side project or early traction. “Show us what you’ve built, not just what you believe,” Mayo added.
Gen Z’s edge, according to Mayo, is their knack for hacking together solutions with whatever tools they can grab—think engineering smarts over polished MBAs. The program’s hunting for founders who can flex technical chops, whether it’s coding, AI, or resourcefulness in a scrappy startup environment. But there’s a catch: don’t oversell. Mayo warns against vague buzzwords or inflated claims—stick to the facts and let your work speak.
The bigger picture? Project Europe isn’t just about funding; it’s about knitting together a continent-wide network of young builders. Inspired by Y Combinator’s collaborative vibe, it aims to spark a domino effect—where peers push each other to succeed, turning isolated wins into a thriving ecosystem. “We’re betting on the energy of founders starting out together,” Mayo said. “That’s how you shift a culture.”
Applications for the 2025 cohort are open now, targeting pre-seed startups with big ideas and small footprints. If you’re a Gen Zer with a tech vision and a stomach for risk, this could be your shot. Just don’t wait—the clock’s ticking.