The global members of ACT | The App Association are innovative small businesses and enterprises changing the way we live, work, and play through apps and connected technology. Our members are the next generation of trailblazers working to solve problems and fill gaps across industries—from artificial intelligence (AI) and healthcare to privacy, cybersecurity, and education—and they’re harnessing the power of the app economy to drive change.
However, the ability of these trailblazers to continue transforming the lives of their customers and clients while bolstering global economies hinges on supportive policies that encourage innovation and growth. Recent proposed changes to international competition regulations, particularly regarding merger rules, pose significant concerns. These adjustments threaten to stifle the growth crucial for startups’ success by potentially curbing pro-competitive and pro-consumer mergers that have historically propelled small businesses forward.
‘M&A is crucial to technology innovation and entrepreneurship. It helps entrepreneurs generate returns for investors who took risks in funding early-stage businesses. Access to these early-stage investors is crucial for technology entrepreneurs as it’s one of the few ways to access growth capital. Successful exits allow entrepreneurs and investors to see gains and reinvest in new startups, continuing the “serial entrepreneur cycle” essential to technology innovation and small business growth.’ BadVR, Member Company
To emphasise the essential role of a well-considered regulatory environment in nurturing the next generation of problem-solvers and industry leaders, we share an open letter to global leaders and policymakers, urging them to approach these policy debates with a balanced perspective to sustain an environment that encourages innovation and maintains a competitive, dynamic digital economy.
Read the letter here.