The Ripple focused on how global politics shape startup life, especially for those working with tech and manufacturing. The group jumped right in on worries like trade issues, wars, and how hard it is for founders to grow when the rules keep shifting.

Conclusions include:

• Startups must plan for sudden changes—having more than one backup makes a difference.

• Building partnerships in many places is now a must, not a bonus.

• Keeping control of your company’s ideas and patents is key.

• Big investors can open doors for young companies but need to help more when business gets political.

• Europe needs better plans to build and hold onto value, not just buy what others make.

Everyone agreed, success today means being flexible, bold, and finding friends everywhere you go.