EMEA Scale-Ups show resilience amid uncertainty
EMEA scale-up ecosystem is entering a new phase of maturity
Because the Finnish home market is limited, companies are often pushed into international expansion before their operating model is mature enough to absorb the complexity.
Fabio Ferraz, Tech M&A Partner | Deloitte Finland
Our 2026 Scale-Ups Confidence Survey reveals that despite geopolitical
headwinds and macroeconomic pressures, a significant majority of scale-ups remain confident in their ability to sustain or accelerate growth.
The standout finding? A decisive shift toward disciplined, sustainable scaling. Technology—particularly artificial intelligence—continues to drive innovation and reshape business models, while scale-ups are increasingly focused on operational excellence and consistent execution rather than growth at any cost.
Yet challenges persist: limited IPO ambitions, capital access, and commercial execution remain critical hurdles.
The verdict is clear: EMEA scale-ups are not retreating—they're sharpening their focus, strengthening their foundations, and positioning themselves for the next wave of growth.
Key findings EMEA
Ambition at scale - the fastest-growing tech companies
Deloitte's Technology Fast 50 & 500 programs identify annually which companies are executing on these priorities and growing fastest. View the Finnish and EMEA winners.
