(Editor’s note: This post on Sofia’s startup ecosystem is part of Dispatches’ Tech Tuesday series. Dispatches covers startups and innovation because so many of our highly skilled expats are engineers and founders.)
Sofia has earned its reputation as one of Eastern Europe’s most dynamic start-up hubs. Below is an overview of the most influential start-up and entrepreneurship communities in Sofia, their missions, and how they contribute to the broader ecosystem. With a growing talent pool, rising investor interest and a culture of resilience, the Bulgarian capital now hosts a wide range of communities that bring entrepreneurs together. From grassroots meet-ups to formal associations, each plays a distinct role in shaping the city’s innovation economy.
BESCO – The Bulgarian Start-up Association
The Bulgarian Start-up Association, better known as BESCO, is one of the most prominent voices for innovation in Bulgaria. Its mission is to bridge the gap between startups, investors and policymakers, ensuring that Bulgaria has a regulatory framework that enables entrepreneurship to thrive.
BESCO advocates for reforms, connects start-ups with government and international partners, as well as promoting Bulgaria as a competitive destination for innovation. Its work has been instrumental in shaping laws around venture capital and startup growth, making it a cornerstone of Sofia’s entrepreneurial landscape. A recent win from BESCO is the new Bulgarian Digital Nomad Visa that was introduced in June 2025.
Entrepreneurs Night Out
Entrepreneurs Night Out is a popular monthly networking event in Sofia that brings together founders, investors and aspiring entrepreneurs. The goal is simple: create a casual, open space for exchanging ideas and building lasting relationships.
What makes this gathering unique is its atmosphere. Instead of a rigid program, the event fosters organic conversations that often lead to collaborations, partnerships and even investment opportunities. For many, it’s the perfect entry point into Sofia’s startup scene.
Design Drinks Sofia
For entrepreneurs working at the intersection of design and technology, Design Drinks is a monthly meetup in Sofia. Organised by Perspektiva studio, this event is where professionals discuss design thinking, product development and user experience – critical topics for any startup looking to stand out.
By combining networking with industry insights, Design Drinks has become a hub for product-minded founders and creatives. It helps shape startups that not only build functional solutions but also deliver compelling user experiences.
Pitch2Pitch by Networking Premium Coworking
Hosted by coworking operator Networking Premium, Pitch2Pitch gives early stage founders the chance to present their ideas to peers, mentors, and potential investors. The event series is designed as a safe space for practice, feedback and exposure.
Pitch2Pitch has become more than just a pitch competition – it’s a launchpad. Many founders in Sofia use the platform to refine their business models and develop the storytelling skills needed to attract capital.
PechaKucha Night Sofia
Part of the global PechaKucha movement, PechaKucha Night Sofia brings storytelling into the heart of the entrepreneurial scene. Presenters from all over Bulgaria and abroad share their ideas using a concise format of 20 slides shown for 20 seconds each, creating fast-paced and engaging talks. They organise events almost every month.
For startups, it’s an excellent way to practice pitching in front of diverse audiences and connect with creative communities. The format’s emphasis on storytelling makes it especially valuable for founders refining their ability to communicate complex ideas clearly.
Bulgarian Angels Club
The Bulgarian Angels Club (formerly CEO Angels Club) is the largest network of business angels in Bulgaria. It brings together senior executives and entrepreneurs who not only invest their own capital in early-stage startups, but also provide mentorship, strategic guidance and valuable connections.
The club typically backs companies at the seed or post-accelerator stage with investments ranging from 10,000 euros to 200,000 euros. BAC investors look for teams with strong expertise and scalable business potential. Acting as a bridge between startups and investors, the club organizes a monthly closed-door pitching event where three startups present to members.
If you’re building an exciting startup and looking for investment, you can reach out to Milena Rodrigues, Marketing & Community Manager, at milena@angelsclub.bg. If you’re interested in angel investing and would like to learn more about the club, get in touch with Elena Nikolova, Board Member, at elena@angelsclub.bg.
Find out more on their website or LinkedIn page.
Founders Running Club
Not all networking has to happen over coffee or in meeting rooms. Founders Running Club blends fitness with community-building by organising regular group runs in Sofia for founders, investors and startup enthusiasts.
The format creates a relaxed, supportive atmosphere where participants can share ideas and challenges while staying active. It’s a fresh approach to building professional relationships, proving that some of the best conversations can happen while jogging through Sofia’s parks.
The Bulgarian Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (BVCA)
The BVCA is the leading organisation representing private equity and venture capital in Bulgaria. Its mission is to foster a sustainable investment environment that supports startups, scale-ups and high-growth companies.
The association organises high-profile industry events, publishes research, and acts as a bridge between investors, entrepreneurs and policymakers. By advocating for best practices and greater transparency, BVCA strengthens investor confidence and helps ensure that Sofia’s ecosystem matures on a solid foundation.
Bulgarian Ecom Meetup
The Bulgarian Ecom Meetup is a vibrant community focused on accelerating the growth and professionalism of the e-commerce sector in Bulgaria. It brings together online retailers, digital marketers, logistics providers, and payment solution experts to share best practices, customer acquisition strategies, and emerging technology trends.
The Recursive Media
In addition to community groups, media plays a crucial role in amplifying the stories of startups and founders in Sofia. The Recursive, a regional media outlet covering innovation in Southeast Europe, highlights the journeys of Bulgarian entrepreneurs while also connecting them to international audiences.
Its reporting on funding rounds, ecosystem trends and founder stories makes it a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand Sofia’s role within the broader regional tech landscape. For both local founders and global investors, The Recursive serves as a trusted window into the ecosystem.
SofiaExpats.com
For international founders and professionals, SofiaExpats.com is a practical resource for discovering English-friendly events, communities and opportunities in Sofia. The platform curates foreigners gatherings, networking events, and expat-friendly groups, making it easier for newcomers to find their place in the city’s entrepreneurial fabric.
By lowering the language barrier and offering a centralised guide, SofiaExpats.com contributes to a more inclusive and globally connected startup ecosystem in Bulgaria’s capital.
Sofia’s startup ecosystem has grown remarkably in the past decade, but there is still a long way to go in making its communities fully accessible to English-speaking founders and professionals. Many events and organisations are now taking steps to open up to international participants, and the trend is steadily improving. With the combined efforts of grassroots groups, investors and supportive platforms, Sofia is becoming a more welcoming hub for both local talent and global entrepreneurs.
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Read more about Bulgaria here in Dispatches’ archives.
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Maria Stoyanova
Maria Stoyanova is a global traveler, Lonely Planet author and founder ofSofiaExpats.com, a resource hub for foreigners living in Bulgaria. Having lived in countries like Spain, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Japan, she now helps fellow expats navigate life in Sofia with insight and practical advice.
