EC unveils accelerator to give tech start-ups helping hand

There are many factors that contribute to (global) success of startups that come from the Valley. Think about it: it's mostly the Valley - not the US - phenomenon... Overall entrepreneurial spirit with big ambitions being the norm, support ecosystem (including access leading-edge IT and microelectronics companies with global pedigree), enormous pool of HR with world-class skills, SINGLE uniform huge IT-savvy open-minded market, "help another startup" collaborative culture, VCs with well-oiled PR machine that can push the message through highly influential media with global reach, expensive properties in beautiful locations (figure out the logic yourself), relaxed positive attitude to failure, etc. The list of things EU won't be able to change can go on... To have a shot, that initiative should bring Ilja Laurs onboard. IMHO.

To add to the "differences" commented by Alexander... has anybody tried to track down and wade their way through the descriptions and paperwork required and associated with this European initiative?

Has anyone even managed to actually track down all of the details?

Unfortunately, most European initiatives seem to be weighed down by so much paperwork that it can become an excessive challenge to many start-up initiatives.