The 13th edition of CrowdCon, hosted in Brussels by Eurocrowd in collaboration with the Digital Lending Association, offered a comprehensive exploration of the evolving crowdfunding and digital lending landscape in Europe. This year’s event, held on 26 and 27 September 2024, marked also the culmination of Eurocrowd’s year-long CrowdIP project, developed in partnership with the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO). CrowdCon once again solidified its reputation as a key platform for dialogue between industry stakeholders, policymakers, and innovators.
Bringing together over 120 participants, the conference was a true reflection of the sector’s diversity and growth. Attendees included representatives from four Directorate-Generals of the European Commission, four National Competent Authorities, and various EU institutions and Member State ministries. The event also drew participants from investment and crowdfunding platforms, professional service providers, academics, associations, and media representatives. The dynamic mix of attendees underscored the significance of crowdfunding and digital lending in supporting the EU’s broader economic and innovation goals.
Shining a Light on ECSPR Implementation
One of the key themes of this year’s CrowdCon was the progress and challenges surrounding the European Crowdfunding Service Providers Regulation (ECSPR). With the regulation now fully operational, participants discussed its impact on harmonizing crowdfunding across Member States. Policymakers and regulators emphasized the importance of creating a balanced framework that protects investors while fostering innovation.
The need for improved regulatory convergence across the EU emerged as a critical topic. While ECSPR has laid a foundation, speakers highlighted lingering challenges for platforms looking to expand internationally. The discussions revealed that, despite progress, there is still work to be done in aligning national regulatory approaches to support seamless cross-border operations.
Discussions also delved into the challenges of scaling crowdfunding platforms globally. Speakers acknowledged that platforms have been slow to achieve profitability and that refining business models remains essential for long-term sustainability. On top, the broader geopolitical and economic factors influencing global expansion, including the slow pace of regulatory convergence, are impacting market developments. CrowdCon once again underscored the importance of a long-term vision and collaborative approaches to overcome these barriers and unlock the sector’s potential on a global scale.
Moving on
Panels throughout the day addressed emerging trends in crowdfunding and digital lending, such as the use of distributed ledger technology (DLT) and the potential of crypto-assets. These discussions reflected the sector’s increasing integration of innovative financial technologies, as well as its alignment with the EU’s ambitions for a more digital and inclusive financial system. A dedicated session showcased best practices for managing IP within innovative projects, emphasizing its critical role in protecting startups and adding value to their offerings. For many attendees, this session highlighted the often-overlooked interplay between IP and alternative finance.
Beyond its formal sessions, CrowdCon provided a vibrant platform for networking and collaboration. Discussions extended to critical topics such as the use of special-purpose vehicles (SPVs) in crowdfunding, securitization as a tool for scaling platforms, and strategies for aligning the sector with the EU’s Capital Markets Union. These conversations underscored the importance of cooperation between public and private stakeholders to address the regulatory, technological, and operational challenges facing the sector.
Key Takeaways
As the event concluded, one clear message emerged: alternative finance is a vital pillar of Europe’s economic future. CrowdCon reaffirmed the importance of education and capacity building to help platforms, investors, and project creators navigate the complexities of ECSPR and emerging technologies. Policymakers and industry leaders alike called for greater collaboration to ensure the sector continues to grow in a sustainable and inclusive way.
The 13th CrowdCon not only celebrated the progress achieved under ECSPR but also set the stage for the work still to come. By fostering dialogue among key stakeholders, the conference highlighted the sector’s immense potential and its pivotal role in shaping the future of finance in Europe. Thank you to all that joined us in Brussels.
