How We Work, What We Stand For
At StartupMafia.eu, credibility is our currency.
This policy explains how we make editorial decisions, how we work with sources and partners, and what readers can expect from our journalism.
1. Editorial Independence
Our primary allegiance is to our readers.
Startup Mafia maintains strict independence from advertisers, sponsors, and commercial partners. Editorial decisions are based solely on:
- newsworthiness,
- relevance to the European startup ecosystem,
- and value to our audience.
Commercial relationships do not influence coverage, headlines, or editorial positioning. We don’t sell opinions — and we don’t publish stories we wouldn’t stand behind.
2. Accuracy & Fact-Checking
We aim for the highest standards of accuracy.
Before publication, our team verifies information using:
- official company statements and press releases,
- regulatory filings and public records,
- direct communication with founders, executives, or investors,
- trusted third-party data sources.
In a fast-moving ecosystem, we prioritize being right over being first. If something cannot be reasonably verified, it does not get published.
3. Sources, Attribution & Anonymity
We prefer on-the-record sources and transparent attribution whenever possible.
That said, we understand that startups, investors, and operators sometimes operate under constraints. We may grant anonymity when:
- the information is verifiable,
- the source is credible,
- and the disclosure serves the broader public interest of the tech community.
We do not publish rumors, speculation, or anonymous claims without independent verification.
4. Sponsored Content & Commercial Transparency
To support our journalism, Startup Mafia offers sponsored content, PR distribution, and partnership opportunities. We follow a strict transparency rule:
- All paid content is clearly labeled as “Sponsored,” “Partner Content,” or “Promoted.”
- Sponsored articles must meet our editorial quality standards and provide genuine value to readers.
- We do not accept undisclosed paid links, stealth advertising, or pay-for-coverage arrangements.
Editorial trust is non-negotiable.
5. Use of Artificial Intelligence
We use AI as a tool — not as a shortcut.
AI technologies may support:
- data analysis,
- language translation,
- research structuring and internal workflows.
However:
- every article is reviewed, edited, and approved by a human editor,
- we do not publish raw or unedited AI-generated content,
- final responsibility always lies with the editorial team.
Technology assists judgment — it does not replace it.
6. Ethics & Conflicts of Interest
Our editors and contributors are required to disclose any personal, financial, or professional relationships with the companies they cover.
If a conflict of interest exists:
- the writer or editor is recused from that story,
- editorial responsibility is reassigned to ensure objectivity.
We believe transparency protects both our readers and our journalists.
7. Corrections, Clarifications & Updates
We take responsibility for our work.
- Corrections: If an error is identified, we correct it promptly and add a clear correction note at the end of the article.
- Updates: For developing stories (e.g. funding rounds, acquisitions, regulatory decisions), we clearly indicate the time and date of the latest update.
Accuracy doesn’t end at publication.
8. Embargoes & Off-the-Record Information
We respect embargoes when they are clearly communicated and agreed upon in advance.
Off-the-record information is treated with care and never published without explicit consent or independent confirmation. Breaking trust once damages an ecosystem for everyone.
9. Pitching & Submissions
We welcome story ideas, announcements, and pitches from founders, startups, investors, and PR professionals.
Submitting a pitch does not guarantee coverage. Every submission is evaluated based on:
- Innovation: Is the product, technology, or model meaningfully differentiated?
- Impact: Does this matter beyond one company?
- Timing: Is the news current and relevant to the market?
We aim to respond, but due to volume, not every pitch will receive feedback.
📩 Editorial submissions: [email protected]
10. Geographic Focus
Startup Mafia focuses on the European startup ecosystem, including:
- EU member states,
- the UK,
- Nordics,
- CEE,
- and European-founded companies operating globally.
We follow capital, talent, and technology wherever Europe is involved.
Our Commitment
Startup Mafia exists to document the real dynamics of European tech — not just the loudest voices.Signal over noise.
Context over hype.
People over press releases.