Milena Stoycheva

Milena Stoycheva is an internationally recognised technology and innovation leader whose career bridges policy, education, and entrepreneurship. A passionate advocate for using innovation as a force for societal progress, she has dedicated her work to building thriving ecosystems that connect technology, business, and youth empowerment. As Bulgaria’s former Minister of Innovation and Growth, she has played a central role in shaping national and international strategies that drive digital transformation and sustainable economic development. Her forward-looking approach and ability to unite policymakers, educators, and entrepreneurs have made her a trusted voice in global discussions on the future of technology and cybersecurity.

Milena’s career began in education and entrepreneurship development, where she led initiatives that encouraged young people to turn ideas into viable businesses. As CEO of Junior Achievement Bulgaria for more than 15 years, she championed innovation in learning, guiding thousands of students and aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace creativity and resilience. Her leadership within the JA Worldwide network positioned her as a driving force behind programmes that blended business acumen with technological insight. Through mentoring and advising emerging ventures, she has helped lay the foundation for Bulgaria’s modern startup scene, nurturing talent capable of thriving in an increasingly digital and connected world.

Her achievements extend far beyond the classroom. Milena has been a keynote speaker at renowned global forums, including the Web Summit, SLUSH, GITEX Europe, and COP28, where she has shared her expertise on innovation, sustainability, and the role of technology in building resilient societies. She has also delivered a TEDx talk, ‘Disruptive Innovations in Education’, in which she explored how creativity and digital transformation can redefine learning for the future. In addition, she has contributed to academic programmes at the EIT Digital Master’s and Doctoral Schools, ensuring that the next generation of leaders is equipped with both technical skills and ethical awareness. As a board member of the European Female Founders network and host of the HER FUND Talks podcast, she continues to advance gender-conscious investment and empower women in technology and entrepreneurship.

Milena’s perspective on cybersecurity is rooted in her deep understanding of how innovation and policy intersect. Her experience in government, education, and startup ecosystems enables her to address cybersecurity not only as a technical challenge but as a societal imperative. She communicates complex issues with clarity and purpose, inspiring audiences to recognise the human dimension of digital security. As a speaker, she connects global trends with actionable insights, making her a compelling choice for organisations seeking to navigate the evolving landscape of cybersecurity and innovation.