Europe’s world-class research institutions are a wellspring of DeepTech innovation, yet the path from scientific discovery to scalable venture remains fraught with structural and financial hurdles. As the US and Asia continue to dominate DeepTech investment, Europe faces a pivotal moment. With new EU funding instruments, evolving regulatory frameworks, and a growing appetite for mission-driven innovation, can Europe close the gap? This panel will compare regional investment dynamics, exit environments, and geopolitical influences, offering a candid assessment of Europe’s position in the global DeepTech race—and what it will take to lead.