The virtual kickoff of Gen-E 2026 has set the stage for Europe’s largest youth entrepreneurship festival, bringing together creativity, ambition and innovation from across the continent. Whether you joined live or are tuning in afterwards, the opening captures the spirit of what promises to be an exceptional year.
From the outset, the event delivered a dynamic and engaging programme. Highlights included an address by Glenn Micallef, European Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport, underlining the importance of empowering young people to help shape Europe’s future. In a memorable and unexpected moment, the audience was also treated to a special appearance by the Oscar-winning Latvian cat, the star of Flow, alongside other surprises that made this year’s opening truly distinctive.
The Virtual Opening also marked the official launch of the Gen-E 2026 Virtual Expo. This interactive platform brings together more than 1,000 young entrepreneurs from across Europe, each showcasing their ideas, ventures and innovations through dedicated virtual stands. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the creativity and entrepreneurial mindset of the next generation, and to discover projects that extend far beyond national borders.
Gen-E 2026 is more than an event — it is a celebration of youth-led innovation and a platform for tomorrow’s changemakers. The Virtual Expo is now live and ready to be explored, offering visitors the chance to engage with fresh ideas and emerging talent from across Europe.
Do not miss out — explore the Gen-E 2026 Virtual Expo and relive the Virtual Opening at www.gen-e.eu.
