In 2025, Europe is leading the charge in blockchain innovation, hosting some of the world’s most groundbreaking startups. Blockchain, once seen as just the foundation for cryptocurrencies, has now evolved into a transformative technology with applications across industries such as finance, healthcare, supply chain, and digital identity. But which startups are making waves in Europe right now, and what can entrepreneurs learn from their success stories? In this article, we’ll reveal the top 10 blockchain startups in Europe, share some insider lessons, and provide actionable tips on how you can follow their lead.
If you’re an entrepreneur or founder gearing up to enter the blockchain world, you can’t afford to miss these insights.
Why Are Blockchain Startups Flourishing in Europe in 2025?
Europe’s tech ecosystem has become a launchpad for blockchain startups, thanks to:
- Strong Regulatory Support: Initiatives like the European Blockchain Regulatory Sandbox encourage experimentation within legal frameworks.
- Access to Talent: Leading universities and a highly skilled workforce prepare entrepreneurs for tackling deep-tech challenges.
- Funding Opportunities: VC firms are investing heavily in blockchain startups, with more than €20 billion in funding flowing into the sector this year.
The Leading Blockchain Startups in Europe in 2025
1. Bitpanda
Headquartered in Vienna, Austria, Bitpanda has solidified itself as a major player in the financial technology sector. Initially a crypto trading platform, it has evolved into a fully-fledged investment hub powered by blockchain. With over six million users, Bitpanda leverages blockchain to democratize investments in stocks, commodities, and ETFs, making financial tools available for everyone.
Lesson for Entrepreneurs: Start with niche services, then pivot toward an all-encompassing product suite that scales with user demand.
2. Aave
Originally started in Finland, Aave is a decentralized finance (DeFi) protocol that allows users to lend and borrow cryptocurrencies in a trustless manner. As one of the pioneers in DeFi, Aave is now developing multi-chain liquidity markets to allow seamless cross-chain functionality, a key trend to watch in 2025.
Lesson for Entrepreneurs: Always innovate on existing infrastructure; solving pain points in a growing sector can solidify long-term relevance.
3. Ocean Protocol
Based out of Germany, Ocean Protocol is revolutionizing data sharing by using blockchain to enable secure and privacy-preserving data marketplaces. From AI development to supply-chain analytics, Ocean helps unlock the value of data while ensuring compliance with EU privacy standards.
Tip for Tech Startups: Marketing is just as important as tech. Start validating demand early, using tools like the AI SEO Blog from F/MS to rank for high-value blockchain-related keywords and establish authority in your niche.
4. Nexa
A rising star from Belgium, Nexa is redefining the world of tokenized assets with its focus on NFT protocols powered by green blockchain technology. Nexa’s innovation in energy-efficient, scalable solutions makes it ideal for industries requiring environmentally friendly blockchain options.
5. Chainalysis
Chainalysis, based in Denmark, specializes in blockchain analytics software critical for both private businesses and public regulatory authorities. With governments increasingly adopting digital currencies in 2025, Chainalysis continues to shape the dialogue between blockchain companies and regulators.
Lesson for Entrepreneurs: Collaborating with regulators and law enforcement early can turn potential roadblocks into partnerships.
6. Immutable X
This UK-based startup is addressing scalability in the blockchain gaming world. Immutable X uses Layer 2 blockchain solutions to allow gamers to own in-game assets without exorbitant gas fees and lag. With the gaming industry’s global value predicted to exceed €400 billion by 2028, Immutable X has positioned itself impeccably.
7. Hedera Hashgraph
Hedera Hashgraph, now with a significant presence in Europe, is a leader in public distributed ledger technology. Unlike traditional blockchains, Hedera uses its patented Hashgraph mechanism to achieve lightning-fast transactions at scale, with applications across healthcare, enterprise IoT, and finance.
8. ConsenSys
Known globally as the developer of MetaMask and other Ethereum-based tools, ConsenSys has doubled its European footprint this year. With its focus on decentralized identity solutions and Web3 infrastructure, it remains at the forefront of blockchain development.
9. Blockpit
Austria-based Blockpit is a leader in crypto tax compliance and portfolio management. By integrating AI and blockchain, the platform offers real-time tax simulations verified against chaotic market movements, a must-have for the increasing number of crypto investors in 2025.
10. SKA Networks
Specializing in supply chain optimization, SKA Networks has innovated in blockchain-based traceability solutions. Headquartered in Spain, the company’s platforms ensure transparency and compliance in industries like food, fashion, and automotive manufacturing.
How to Succeed as a Blockchain Startup Founder
1. Focus On Validation Early
Many blockchain projects fail, not because their technology doesn’t work, but because they haven’t validated user needs. Use tools such as F/MS Marketing Directories to submit your startup to over 1,500 free business directories, increasing visibility while garnering feedback.
2. Start Marketing From Day One
Blockchain may sound sexy, but trust us, marketing in this space is the hardest part. Platforms like F/MS AI SEO Blog automate your content marketing efforts, helping you rank on Google and AI bots like ChatGPT without the typical manual hassle.
Common Mistakes Blockchain Startups Make
- Overlooking Regulatory Nuances: Ignoring compliance can spell doom, especially in Europe with its rigid General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) rules.
- Scaling Too Quickly: Aim for steady growth rather than attempting to replicate unicorn success overnight.
- Underestimating Marketing: A cutting-edge product is useless if no one knows about it.
Deep Insights: Why Europe is the Blockchain Testing Ground
In 2025, Europe isn’t just adopting blockchain, it’s shaping its global future. From launching CBDCs (Central Bank Digital Currencies) to integrating transparency in supply chains, the region’s unique environment nurtures startups that push boundaries. Entrepreneurs, take note: if your solution fits the European market, you’re on your way to global expansion.
Looking to Scale Fast and Drive Results?
Content marketing can feel overwhelming. That’s why AI-driven tools with human oversight, like the F/MS AI Article Writer, make a big difference. Create SEO-rich blogs that not only rank on Google but also get picked up by AI chatbots like ChatGPT! Perfect for early-stage founders and experts aiming to focus on actual innovation, not marketing grunt work.
Conclusion
The top 10 blockchain startups in Europe for 2025 teach us valuable lessons in innovation, market fit, and compliance. Whether you’re building the next Bitpanda or testing an Immutable X-style gaming solution, these companies serve as inspiration. Dive into the vibrant European market, avoid common mistakes, and start building the future today.
Ready to make your mark? Start with marketing, it’s the foundation for everything. Try the F/MS AI SEO Blog and dominate the conversation in blockchain innovation!
Check out another article that you might like:
FAQ on the Top Blockchain Startups in Europe in 2025
1. What are the leading blockchain startups in Europe in 2025?
Some of the top blockchain startups in Europe include Bitpanda, Aave, and Ocean Protocol, renowned for their innovations in blockchain-driven financial, DeFi, and data marketplaces, respectively. Explore Bitpanda | Learn about Aave | Check out Ocean Protocol
2. Where can I submit a guest post about my startup?
If your startups needs to drive targeted traffic and build authority with high-volume, niche-relevant content placements in articles that rank well not only in Google, but also in Perplexity and ChatGPT, then you might want to publish your guest post in one of the F/MS Startup Game’s blogs. Get a quality backlink
3. Why is Europe a hub for blockchain innovation in 2025?
Europe’s blockchain ecosystem thrives due to strong regulatory support (like the European Blockchain Regulatory Sandbox), access to talent, and robust funding of over €20 billion in 2025.
4. Which blockchain startups focus on environmental sustainability?
Nexa in Belgium prioritizes energy-efficient, scalable NFT protocols, specifically focusing on green blockchain solutions for industries like arts and finance.
5. How are blockchain startups addressing compliance in Europe?
Startups like Chainalysis are vital in helping companies and regulators navigate blockchain compliance, ensuring GDPR adherence and fostering trust. Learn more about Chainalysis
6. How are blockchain startups revolutionizing digital identity?
Companies like ConsenSys are at the forefront of decentralized identity solutions, enabling secure and user-controlled online identification. Explore ConsenSys
7. Can I use AI to write SEO-optimized articles that help my brand grow?
Most business owners don’t understand how SEO works, let alone how to use AI for writing blog articles. That’s why for busy business owners there’s a great free tool that doesn’t require much knowledge. Write articles for free
8. What is the most promising blockchain startup in the gaming sector?
Immutable X in the UK is leading in blockchain gaming with its Layer 2 scaling solution, allowing for low-cost, lag-free gaming experiences.
9. How can startups validate their blockchain product market fit?
Early validation is critical. Tools like the F/MS Marketing Directories can help founders list their startups in over 1,500 free business directories to boost visibility and gather feedback.
10. How are blockchain startups improving supply chain transparency?
SKA Networks in Spain uses blockchain-based traceability solutions to enhance transparency and compliance in industries like food and fashion.
About the Author
Violetta Bonenkamp, also known as MeanCEO, is an experienced startup founder with an impressive educational background including an MBA and four other higher education degrees. She has over 20 years of work experience across multiple countries, including 5 years as a solopreneur and serial entrepreneur. Throughout her startup experience she has applied for multiple startup grants at the EU level, in the Netherlands and Malta, and her startups received quite a few of those. She’s been living, studying and working in many countries around the globe and her extensive multicultural experience has influenced her immensely.
Violetta Bonenkamp’s expertise in CAD sector, IP protection and blockchain
Violetta Bonenkamp is recognized as a multidisciplinary expert with significant achievements in the CAD sector, intellectual property (IP) protection, and blockchain technology.
CAD Sector:
- Violetta is the CEO and co-founder of CADChain, a deep tech startup focused on developing IP management software specifically for CAD (Computer-Aided Design) data. CADChain addresses the lack of industry standards for CAD data protection and sharing, using innovative technology to secure and manage design data.
- She has led the company since its inception in 2018, overseeing R&D, PR, and business development, and driving the creation of products for platforms such as Autodesk Inventor, Blender, and SolidWorks.
- Her leadership has been instrumental in scaling CADChain from a small team to a significant player in the deeptech space, with a diverse, international team.
IP Protection:
- Violetta has built deep expertise in intellectual property, combining academic training with practical startup experience. She has taken specialized courses in IP from institutions like WIPO and the EU IPO.
- She is known for sharing actionable strategies for startup IP protection, leveraging both legal and technological approaches, and has published guides and content on this topic for the entrepreneurial community.
- Her work at CADChain directly addresses the need for robust IP protection in the engineering and design industries, integrating cybersecurity and compliance measures to safeguard digital assets.
Blockchain:
- Violetta’s entry into the blockchain sector began with the founding of CADChain, which uses blockchain as a core technology for securing and managing CAD data.
- She holds several certifications in blockchain and has participated in major hackathons and policy forums, such as the OECD Global Blockchain Policy Forum.
- Her expertise extends to applying blockchain for IP management, ensuring data integrity, traceability, and secure sharing in the CAD industry.
Violetta is a true multiple specialist who has built expertise in Linguistics, Education, Business Management, Blockchain, Entrepreneurship, Intellectual Property, Game Design, AI, SEO, Digital Marketing, cyber security and zero code automations. Her extensive educational journey includes a Master of Arts in Linguistics and Education, an Advanced Master in Linguistics from Belgium (2006-2007), an MBA from Blekinge Institute of Technology in Sweden (2006-2008), and an Erasmus Mundus joint program European Master of Higher Education from universities in Norway, Finland, and Portugal (2009).
She is the founder of Fe/male Switch, a startup game that encourages women to enter STEM fields, and also leads CADChain, and multiple other projects like the Directory of 1,000 Startup Cities with a proprietary MeanCEO Index that ranks cities for female entrepreneurs. Violetta created the “gamepreneurship” methodology, which forms the scientific basis of her startup game. She also builds a lot of SEO tools for startups. Her achievements include being named one of the top 100 women in Europe by EU Startups in 2022 and being nominated for Impact Person of the year at the Dutch Blockchain Week. She is an author with Sifted and a speaker at different Universities. Recently she published a book on Startup Idea Validation the right way: from zero to first customers and beyond, launched a Directory of 1,500+ websites for startups to list themselves in order to gain traction and build backlinks and is building MELA AI to help local restaurants in Malta get more visibility online.
For the past several years Violetta has been living between the Netherlands and Malta, while also regularly traveling to different destinations around the globe, usually due to her entrepreneurial activities. This has led her to start writing about different locations and amenities from the POV of an entrepreneur. Here’s her recent article about the best hotels in Italy to work from.
About the Publication
Fe/male Switch is an innovative startup platform designed to empower women entrepreneurs through an immersive, game-like experience. Founded in 2020 during the pandemic “without any funding and without any code,” this non-profit initiative has evolved into a comprehensive educational tool for aspiring female entrepreneurs.The platform was co-founded by Violetta Shishkina-Bonenkamp, who serves as CEO and one of the lead authors of the Startup News branch.
Mission and Purpose
Fe/male Switch Foundation was created to address the gender gap in the tech and entrepreneurship space. The platform aims to skill-up future female tech leaders and empower them to create resilient and innovative tech startups through what they call “gamepreneurship”. By putting players in a virtual startup village where they must survive and thrive, the startup game allows women to test their entrepreneurial abilities without financial risk.
Key Features
The platform offers a unique blend of news, resources,learning, networking, and practical application within a supportive, female-focused environment:
- Skill Lab: Micro-modules covering essential startup skills
- Virtual Startup Building: Create or join startups and tackle real-world challenges
- AI Co-founder (PlayPal): Guides users through the startup process
- SANDBOX: A testing environment for idea validation before launch
- Wellness Integration: Virtual activities to balance work and self-care
- Marketplace: Buy or sell expert sessions and tutorials
Impact and Growth
Since its inception, Fe/male Switch has shown impressive growth:
- 5,000+ female entrepreneurs in the community
- 100+ startup tools built
- 5,000+ pieces of articles and news written
- 1,000 unique business ideas for women created
Partnerships
Fe/male Switch has formed strategic partnerships to enhance its offerings. In January 2022, it teamed up with global website builder Tilda to provide free access to website building tools and mentorship services for Fe/male Switch participants.
Recognition
Fe/male Switch has received media attention for its innovative approach to closing the gender gap in tech entrepreneurship. The platform has been featured in various publications highlighting its unique “play to learn and earn” model.
