The Investors Summit Bilbao 2025, hosted by Startup Wise Guys, brought together some of the most influential angel investors, venture capitalists, and startup founders from across Europe. As one of the premier gatherings for early-stage investing, the event provided a platform for discussing emerging investment trends, strategies for startup growth, and the evolving role of angel investors in shaping the startup ecosystem.
COREangels Thought Leadership on Early-Stage Investing
COREangels was honored to take part in this high-impact event, with Jorge Martinez Arroyo, Fund Leader at COREangels EnterpriseTech, and Jorge Monteiro, CEO of Ethiack (a COREangels Lisbon portfolio company), sharing their expertise on key topics that matter most to investors and founders alike.
Key Insights from the Panel Discussions:
- How angel investors can identify and support high-growth startups – The panel explored the essential success factors that make early-stage startups investable, including team resilience, product-market fit, and growth potential. Jorge Martinez Arroyo emphasized the importance of evaluating startup traction and scalability early on, helping investors make informed decisions.
- Challenges startups face in scaling and how investors can help – Scaling a startup requires not only funding but also the right strategic support. The discussion focused on common hurdles such as talent acquisition, market expansion, and operational scaling. Jorge Monteiro provided real-world insights into how mentorship, network connections, and tailored funding approaches can help startups overcome these challenges.
- Key investment themes shaping the European startup ecosystem in 2025 – The panel examined emerging sectors attracting investor interest, including deep tech, AI-driven automation, green energy, and impact-driven businesses. With Europe’s growing regulatory landscape and increased funding in tech-driven sustainability initiatives, investors are keen to align their portfolios with future-proof industries.
Why Syndicate Investing & Cross-Border Opportunities Matter
A key takeaway from the summit was the growing role of syndicate investing in de-risking angel investments while increasing access to a broader range of high-quality deals. Pooling capital and expertise across borders allows investors to spread risk while supporting startups with diverse, international perspectives.
Cross-border investing was also highlighted as a key driver of startup growth in 2025, with discussions focusing on:
- How angel syndicates can accelerate startup expansion into new markets.
- The benefits of international co-investments, reducing barriers to entry in emerging tech hubs.
- How investors can leverage global networks to provide startups with greater resources, mentorship, and strategic partnerships.
The Takeaway for Angel Investors
The Investors Summit Bilbao 2025 reinforced the idea that angel investing is evolving. With an increasing emphasis on collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and global outreach, investors are now more equipped than ever to support startups that drive innovation and create real-world impact.
COREangels remains committed to fostering this growth by providing structured investment opportunities, mentorship, and access to a diverse international network of investors and founders. Events like the Investors Summit Bilbao 2025 showcase the power of community-driven investing, ensuring that early-stage startups receive the capital and guidance they need to succeed.
