Generation Think Tank

Generation Think Tank is a private organization that conducts research and strategic analysis, though its specific operational focus and primary headquarters location remain undisclosed at this time. Operating with limited public visibility across the industry, the entity has not disclosed specific financial metrics, including total funding raised, current valuation, or assets under management. The organization functions within the broader research and advisory sector, but detailed information regarding its core business model, target demographics, and primary service offerings is currently unavailable in major public databases. Due to its highly confidential operational nature, there are no publicly confirmed strategic relationships with recognizable lead investors, institutional partners, corporate customers, or affiliated portfolio companies. Furthermore, the exact founding year and the specific identities of the original founders establishing Generation Think Tank have not been officially released to the general public.

High-Level Overview

Generation Think Tank does not appear to be an established company, investment firm, or portfolio company based on available sources; the query likely refers to the Centre for Future Generations (CFG), an independent think-and-do tank focused on governing emerging technologies.[1][3] CFG's mission is to assist decision-makers in anticipating and governing rapid technological change, ensuring these technologies benefit humanity and future generations.[1][3] It emphasizes public oversight of powerful, ungoverned tech like AI and biotech that could shift global power balances, operating as a non-profit "think-and-do" entity rather than a for-profit investment firm or startup.[1][3]

Unlike traditional think tanks, CFG combines research with actionable policy advocacy, headquartered in Brussels with roots in Rotterdam.[1] It does not invest in startups but influences the ecosystem by shaping regulations for tech innovation, targeting decision-makers in government and industry.[1][3]

Origin Story

CFG was conceived in 2021 by tech entrepreneur Steven Schuurman and social entrepreneur Laurens de Groot, both male founders with a commitment to tech governance.[1] Schuurman brings tech expertise, while de Groot leads as of 2024.[1] The organization launched operations in 2022, hiring its first team in Rotterdam, and established its Brussels headquarters in 2023 to proximity EU policymakers.[1]

This evolution reflects a pivotal response to accelerating tech risks post-2021 AI breakthroughs, humanizing CFG as a founder-driven effort to bridge entrepreneurship and public good amid ungoverned tech proliferation.[1][3]

Core Differentiators

• Think-and-Do Model: Unlike pure research think tanks, CFG actively assists decision-makers with governance strategies, blending analysis and implementation.[1][3]
• Focus on Power-Shifting Tech: Targets fast-evolving, far-reaching technologies (e.g., AI, biotech) still largely ungoverned, prioritizing global balance of power over broad policy.[3]
• Founder-Led Independence: Backed by tech and social entrepreneurs, ensuring agile, humanity-first oversight without corporate or governmental bias.[1]
• Strategic Location and Network: Brussels HQ positions it at the heart of EU regulation; early team build emphasizes cross-sector influence.[1]

These elements distinguish CFG from general think tanks like RAND or Hudson Institute, which often tie to military or partisan agendas.[6]

Role in the Broader Tech Landscape

CFG rides the AI governance trend, addressing market forces like unchecked tech giants and geopolitical tech races that demand public oversight.[1][3] Timing is critical post-2021: rapid advances in generative AI and biotech amplify risks, with EU's AI Act (2024) creating tailwinds for policy-focused entities.[1] It influences the ecosystem by equipping regulators to harness tech for humanity, countering unchecked innovation that could exacerbate inequalities or power imbalances.[3]

In a landscape of 1000+ global think tanks, CFG's niche in "think-and-do" for future generations fills a gap between academia, industry, and policy.[6]

Quick Take & Future Outlook

CFG is poised to expand influence as AI regulations globalize, potentially advising UN or G7 bodies on biotech and quantum tech.[1][3] Trends like escalating U.S.-China tech rivalry and ethical AI mandates will amplify its role, evolving it toward a leading governance hub. Its startup-like agility could drive pivotal policy wins, ensuring tech serves humanity—a mission more vital as 2025 tech risks intensify.[3] This positions CFG not as a company, but as a safeguard for the startup ecosystem's long-term viability.