2025 is a year of globalization and the realization of our goal to amplify the impact of Phoenix tech startups on the global stage. On June 26, Digital Den, a startup venture studio based in Montenegro, hosted our founder and CEO, Daniela Santangelo, and Jen Wong, Tech Arizona Advocates Group Leader, in an inspiring discussion about the value Phoenix brings to global startups. The event brought together founders, investors, and policymakers to explore how international startups can soft-land, scale smart, and raise capital in the U.S., starting in Arizona.
What follows are highlights from the discussion.
Click here to download the slides.
Over the last decade, Phoenix has quietly (but quickly) become one of the most dynamic startup cities in the U.S.
It’s not just stats that make Phoenix compelling—it’s the community-first momentum. From Mayor-CEO roundtables to a growing density of founder support, the region is investing in long-term innovation infrastructure.
Thanks to FreewayX and our collaboration with Tech Arizona Advocates, City of Phoenix and Greater Phoenix Economic Council (AISLE program) soft landing is just one decision away:
For Balkan and Eastern European founders, especially, Phoenix offers a capital-efficient, talent-rich ecosystem where you’re 30% more cost-effective than San Francisco, CA, Los Angeles, CA, or New York City without sacrificing ambition.
While U.S. venture capital deal volume is down 21% nationwide, Phoenix is trending upward. Early-stage capital remains a gap but also an opportunity zone.
European founders are turning to the U.S. for:
The smart capital conversation is evolving rapidly, and Phoenix is carving out space for founders who are ready to build with discipline, traction, and long-term alignment. Smart capital refers to a shift from just raising money to raising the right kind of money from investors who offer more than just a check. It’s a response to market changes, investor behavior, and founder needs in a post-hype, post-ZIRP (zero-interest-rate-policy) era.
Whether you're a founder in Podgorica or Paris, scaling into the U.S. no longer means booking a one-way flight to the Bay. Phoenix is proving you can build globally, land gently, and scale smart — with the right people behind you.
For founders ready to cross borders and bridge ecosystems, Freeway is open.
P.S.: Save the date: The Global Bridges conversation continues at the upcoming Tech Talent Summit, where International startups who are taking action on expansion into Phx can apply for the Startup World Cup Arizona on November 7, 2025 for a chance at going to the SUWC Finals in San Francisco (Oct 2026)—with $1M in capital on the line. Sign up for our Freeway newsletter to stay updated about this and all our news and upcoming events.
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