The European Commission has always been somewhat ambiguous towards entrepreneurs and private businesses: they need to regulate the market but many senior officials lack the experience or understanding that true wealth comes from new ventures.

That is why it is a much welcome speech from one of the Vice-Presidents of the European Commission, Neelie Kroes, whose video message (2:13 only, worth watching) includes some music to all of Europe’s entrepreneurs’ ears, such as:

– “We badly need entrepreneurs”

– “We can offer you from the European Commission Recognition, Resources and a decent set of Rules”

– “[Being an entrepreneur] is essential for Europe’s economic future”

– Acceptance the a regulatory/”governmental” body such as the Commission can never come up with innovations, initiatives and ideas that will substitute the free minds of entrepreneurs and doers.

What a fresh and unique approach, something that Commission President Barroso should be saying day in, day out in every single speech he gives.

No government has ever invented Skype, Spotify or Prezi. The best contribution they can offer is simple: create a minimal framework that helps startups prosper.

They will do the rest.

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