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Build, don’t bind: Accel’s Sonali De Rycker on Europe’s AI crossroads | TechCrunch

May 17, 2025 - techcrunch.com
Sonali De Rycker, a general partner at Accel, expressed optimism about Europe's potential in AI during a TechCrunch event in London, highlighting the continent's strong entrepreneurial spirit, talent, and resources. However, she voiced concerns about Europe's complex regulatory environment, particularly the Artificial Intelligence Act, which she fears could stifle innovation by imposing stringent rules and fines on high-risk AI applications. De Rycker emphasized the need for Europe to become more self-sufficient and sovereign, especially in light of shifting geopolitics and waning U.S. support.

De Rycker advocates for a unified regulatory framework, like the "28th regime," to streamline business operations across the EU and foster a startup-friendly environment. She noted that while Europe is catching up in innovation, it still lags behind the U.S. in AI adoption and experimentation. Accel's strategy focuses on the application layer of AI, investing in companies like Synthesia and Speak, which are creating new business models and expanding markets. De Rycker sees this period as a critical opportunity for Europe to lead in tech, urging a balanced approach to regulation to avoid hindering growth.

Key takeaways:

  • Sonali De Rycker is optimistic about Europe's AI potential but concerned about regulatory overreach, particularly the EU's Artificial Intelligence Act, which could hinder innovation.
  • De Rycker emphasizes the need for Europe to become more self-sufficient and sovereign, especially in light of shifting geopolitics and reduced U.S. support.
  • Efforts like the "28th regime" are crucial for creating a unified, startup-friendly region in Europe, reducing friction caused by varying laws and regulations across countries.
  • Accel focuses on the application layer of AI, investing in companies like Synthesia and Speak, which are expanding total addressable markets and creating new business models.
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