F/MS Top Startup Cities

5 min read

Luxembourg City, Luxembourg #186

City Scores

City Total Score

2.564

Overall ranking score

Quality Score

0.21

Ecosystem quality rating

Quantity Score

0.45

Ecosystem size rating

Business Score

1.91

Business environment rating

Score Distribution

Score Comparison

MeanCEO Index Click to scroll to details

60

Startup Ecosystem in Luxembourg City 🌟

TL;DR

Luxembourg City ranks 186th in the Global F/MS “Best Cities for Startups” Index. Known for its stability and innovative spirit, Luxembourg offers a supportive environment for startups, particularly in the tech sector.


Startup-Friendly Stuff 📈

1. Ease of Company Registration

  • Business Registration: Luxembourg boasts an efficient, online registration process that simplifies starting a business.
  • Startup Incentives: Beneficial policies and support structures are in place for tech startups aiming at international markets.

2. Employment Law 🏢

  • Labor Regulations: Comprehensive laws safeguard employees, ensuring a fair workplace, although they may be daunting for new startups.
  • Hiring Foreign Talent: The process of hiring foreign workers is well-defined, although work permits are required.

3. Taxation 💰

  • Corporate Tax Rate: Generally around 24.94%, with reductions for qualifying startups.
  • VAT Regulations: Competitive VAT rates, particularly favorable for digital services and tech sectors.

4. Quality of Life 🌇

  • Living Standards: High quality of life with modern amenities, albeit with a relatively high cost of living.
  • Culture and Leisure: A vibrant cultural scene featuring numerous museums, parks, and annual festivals.

5. Bureaucracy 🗂️

  • Ease of Navigation: Government processes are largely efficient, although navigating certain regulatory requirements can take time.
  • Government Support: Programs and initiatives are actively geared toward promoting innovation and business success.

6. Visas for Entrepreneurs 🌍

  • Startup Visas & Permits: Entrepreneurs can access relatively straightforward business visa processes.
  • Residency Options: Diverse options available for long-term residency for eligible entrepreneurs.

Startup Community 🤝

7. Networking Events

  • The city hosts numerous startup events, including meetups, hackathons, and investor pitches.
  • Annual tech conferences attract international attention, creating ample networking opportunities.

8. Subsidies and Funding 💵

  • Generous support from government entities for tech startups, including grants and financing options.
  • Several incubators and accelerators provide funding and resources to budding entrepreneurs.

9. Venture Capital (VC) Presence

  • Investments: A growing VC community is keen to invest in emerging startups.
  • Major Firms: A mix of local and international venture capital firms are actively participating in the market.

10. Incubators & Accelerators 🚀

  • A variety of incubators support startups in sectors like fintech, health, and renewable energy.
  • Programs often include mentorship, office space, and access to funding networks.

Technology & Industry Priorities 🔧

  • Focus Areas: Strong emphasis on Fintech, HealthTech, and ICT sectors.
  • Government Initiatives: A goal-oriented approach toward fostering innovation through technology-led growth.

Business Culture 🏙️

  • Language: While Luxembourgish, French, and German are prevalent, English is widely used in the startup space.
  • Work Environment: A collaborative yet competitive landscape that celebrates innovation and creativity.

General Pros and Cons ⚖️

Pros:

  • Robust support network for tech startups.
  • High quality of life coupled with a diverse expatriate community.
  • Strong government backing enhances funding opportunities.

Cons:

  • Higher cost of living compared to some European counterparts.
  • Bureaucratic twists can be challenging for newcomers.

Initiatives for Female Entrepreneurs 👩‍💼

  • A growing focus on fostering female entrepreneurship through dedicated funding opportunities and mentoring programs.
  • Regular events and workshops aimed at empowering women in business.

Luxembourg City offers a unique blend of resources and support for startups, making it an intriguing option for entrepreneurs looking to thrive. 🚀

MeanCEO Index for Luxembourg City 🇱🇺

Luxembourg City presents a unique environment for startups, especially within the tech sector. But how does it hold up for female entrepreneurs? Let’s evaluate its MeanCEO Index score across ten essential factors that shape the entrepreneurial landscape!


1. Weather ☀️

  • Score: 5/10
    • Luxembourg has a temperate maritime climate, leading to moderate sunny days but also considerable rainfall. This score reflects a balanced climate, though not particularly warm.

2. Location 🏞️

  • Score: 4/10
    • Located inland with no direct beach access, Luxembourg City doesn’t offer the typical coastal escape. Its riverbanks provide some recreational options, but it lacks maritime allure.

3. Women Friendly 👩‍💼

  • Score: 8/10
    • Generally, Luxembourg’s culture respects women and promotes gender equality. Initiatives for female entrepreneurship are gaining traction, enhancing the environment for women in business.

4. Foreigners Friendly 🌍

  • Score: 7/10
    • Luxembourg embraces a diverse community, and locals are relatively open and welcoming to foreigners. The multilingual environment fosters connections, particularly for women.

5. English as a Business Language 📚

  • Score: 9/10
    • English is widely used in the startup scene, making it accessible for international entrepreneurs. Multilingual locals facilitate smoother communication for business.

6. Delicious Cuisine 🍷

  • Score: 6/10
    • Luxembourg’s cuisine is hearty with influences from neighboring countries, but it often includes onions. The local wine production is commendable, enhancing the culinary experience.

7. Ease of Getting Married and Starting a Family 💍

  • Score: 6/10
    • The dating culture is vibrant, although the high cost of living can be a factor. The city’s cosmopolitan nature offers a mix of potential partners, though lifestyle pressures exist.

8. Medicine 🏥

  • Score: 7/10
    • Healthcare in Luxembourg is highly regarded, with fast access to appointments. However, costs can vary, affecting overall accessibility.

9. Ease of Transportation & Traveling 🚍

  • Score: 8/10
    • Luxembourg City boasts efficient public transportation and close proximity to an international airport, making travel both domestic and international quite easy.

10. Startup Mindset 💡

  • Score: 6/10
    • While there’s a supportive ecosystem, the risk-averse nature can sometimes stifle innovation. However, the presence of venture capital and incubators encourages resilience among entrepreneurs.

MeanCEO Index Score: 60/100 🎉

Luxembourg City offers a solid framework for female entrepreneurs, marked by a collaborative culture and supportive government initiatives. While challenges like high living costs and a sometimes rigid startup mindset exist, the diverse community and strong infrastructure present a valuable opportunity for women looking to establish and grow businesses.

Here’s to navigating the entrepreneurial landscape in Luxembourg City! 🚀