Your 2025 impact scene cheat sheet: top reads for the holidays

We may cover stories from across Europe, but we’re proudly rooted in Sweden – the land of fika and work-life balance. That means we’re taking a well-deserved festive break, probably with some hot glögg and a cinnamon bun in hand.

Hopefully you're getting some rest too (although yes, we've spotted you scrolling LinkedIn and reading this very article during the holidays). But if you are already logged on and looking for some festive reading, here’s a forward-thinking reading list to keep you inspired for the year ahead.

1. What are investors betting on for 2025? Leading VCs share their predictions on liquidity in the impact scene and the sectors set to boom, from biomaterials to femtech. Read the article here.

2. The ultimate startup team for 2025 Launching a new business in Q1? A report by VC firm NGP Capital reveals that diverse skillsets, mixed-gender teams, and co-founders are the keys to unlocking funding in Europe. Solo founders, take note. Our reporter Mattias Karen has dug into the research. Read the article here.

3. Sweet trends: the rise of sustainable chocolate If you’re still struggling to switch off from work, try settling into a comfy chair and snacking on our feature about Europe’s sustainable chocolate revolution. From German foodtech Planet A Foods to Copenhagen’s Endless Food Co., chocolate startups are having a moment. Read the article here.

4. Electrified winter escapes Looking for a ski break? Check out the startups electrifying winter transport. From electric snowmobiles to carbon-cutting mountain bikes, here are five 'cool' companies transforming Europe’s winter tourism scene. Read the article here.

5. Is flight-shame out of fashion? Impact Loop journalist Maddy Savage sparked debate recently by asking whether flight-shame has fallen out of fashion in the impact scene. Whether you see flying as essential for business or something to avoid at all costs, don’t miss our report on the French startup developing a hydrogen-powered private jet to try and slash aviation’s carbon footprint. Read the article here.

Wherever you’re reading this – at home, in the office, or on a winter getaway – we hope you enjoy a well-deserved break. Impact Loop will be back in 2025 with even more must-read stories. In the meantime, we’d love your feedback. How are we doing so far? Get in touch – we’re just getting started. Email: editorial@loop.com or follow us on LinkedIn.