Accelerators and programs that boost startups and SMEs in Spain

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The accelerators and business development programs They have become a key ally for startups and SMEs looking to make a significant leap in their growth. Beyond simply offering funding, these programs combine training, mentorship, strategic networking, and, increasingly, access to technologies such as artificial intelligence or... advanced digitalization.

In Spain, and especially in communities like Galicia or Madrid, they are emerging public and private initiatives These initiatives cover diverse sectors such as agri-food and biotechnology, as well as areas like smart cities, digital health, and the circular economy. Throughout this article, we will review, in detail, several programs, real-world case studies, and innovation hubs that help transform ideas into solid and competitive businesses.

Accelerators, residencies and ecosystems for startups

When people talk about accelerators, they usually only think about funding, but the reality is that the projects that evolve best are those that are integrated into a structured entrepreneurship ecosystemA good example is the journey of startups that go through spaces like the campuses of large technology corporations until reaching more advanced residency programs, where the support is much more intensive and personalized.

One of these typical paths is that of companies that start almost informally, working in open spaces or cafes in innovation hubsTaking advantage of direct contact with other entrepreneurs, mentors, and frequent events, these environments are where the first versions of the product are refined—including the app development—, the business model is validated and a network of relationships with potential partners, clients and prescribers begins to be established.

Over time, as the startup demonstrates traction, doors open to Residency or advanced acceleration programsThese formats are typically designed for projects that have already launched a minimum viable product and need to professionalize their operations, optimize internal processes, streamline their financial strategy, and prepare for investment rounds. The key difference from previous phases is the level of rigor and focus on clear metrics: growth, retention, and the capacity to increase salesscalability and regulatory compliance.

In these types of programs, it is also common for the founding teams to have access to high-level mentors from large companiesInvestment funds or scaleups that have already faced the same challenges. This contrast between the agility of a startup and the experience of established organizations is often crucial for avoiding common mistakes and accelerating critical decisions.

IndesIA and the acceleration of Madrid SMEs with artificial intelligence

One of the most interesting programs on the recent scene is the one that has been launched IndesIA in collaboration with the Community of Madrid To accelerate the growth and competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises through the strategic use of artificial intelligence. This initiative is free for participating companies and is 100% funded by Next Generation EU funds from the Recovery Plan and the Community of Madrid itself.

The program officially kicked off with an opening day held at the Digital Innovation Center MadridThe event was attended by top-level institutional representatives: Miguel López-Valverde, Minister of Digitalization for the Community of Madrid; Ignacio Azorín, Director General of Digital Strategy; and Elena Liria, CEO of Madrid Digital. Nuria Ávalos, CEO of IndesIA, formally welcomed the participating companies.

In the first edition, the following have been selected 17 Madrid-based SMEs from different parts of the regionThis demonstrates the widespread interest in AI. The sectors represented include transportation, industrial manufacturing, consulting, commerce, and biotechnology. The list of companies includes Enefgy, Auto Mobility SLU, Digital Software & Solutions SL, Innovarte Consultoría, Soluciones Inteligentes para la Gestión de Información por Internet SL, Integrated Lab Design SL, Ekonoke by Achipámpanos, Bluebiome SL, Madrid Desktop Solutions SL, Nonwovens Technical Trust, Microplus Lighting, Proyectos y Construcciones GOA SL, ProSer Informática SL, Green Tech Buy, Pyrocatalytica, Mecano Consulting, and Transperrin Ibérica.

The goal is for these companies to be able to Leveraging AI not just as a trend, but as a real business driverIdentifying specific processes where technology provides tangible value: cost reduction, improved customer experience, data-driven decisions, or automation of repetitive tasks. The program's design has been structured precisely to ensure that AI adoption is progressive, practical, and aligned with the business strategy.

In addition to training and support, the program pays special attention to enabling SMEs to access to grants and public aid that facilitate the implementation of their pilot projects. In this way, they seek to overcome one of the major barriers to digitalization in small businesses: the lack of resources to invest in advanced technology and specialized talent.

IndesIA program structure: three key phases

The itinerary designed by IndesIA and the Community of Madrid has been organized in three major phases that accompany the SME from discovery to pilot testThis approach prevents companies from "skipping steps" and ensures that AI is applied judiciously and not haphazardly.

In the first phase, a initial training in artificial intelligence and data managementFar from being an overly technical course, the approach is accessible and highly practical, designed for managers, department heads, and middle management. It explains the main types of AI, data-driven strategies, the impact of these technologies on customer relationships and the optimization of internal operations, as well as key aspects of current regulations and ethical considerations in data use.

This training phase is also used to help each SME develop a customized digital transformation roadmapNot all companies have the same needs or the same starting point, so we work to identify the specific opportunities of each one, the resources available and the priorities for the coming months or years.

The second phase focuses on the identification of specific processes where AI can be appliedHere, companies analyze their critical areas (logistics, customer service, production, maintenance, marketing, etc.) and assess where it makes the most sense to implement data-driven and AI-based solutions. The goal is to identify those points in the value chain where an algorithm, a predictive system, or advanced automation can make a real difference.

In the third and final phase, action is taken with the development of customized pilot projectsEach company, in collaboration with program experts, designs an AI use case tailored to its specific needs, which can be implemented in a controlled and measurable environment. Throughout this process, they receive close support, access to technological tools, and guidance to prepare for future project scales and to apply for specific grants to finance its full deployment.

The program doesn't stop at this first promotion: it is planned that continue throughout 2025 with new editionsSMEs interested in joining can register through the official IndesIA website, where details of conditions, schedule and participation requirements are provided.

Regional AI platform: shared data and use cases

Linked to this acceleration program, IndesIA and the Community of Madrid are developing a artificial intelligence platform geared towards businesses in the regionThis is an innovative technological infrastructure whose purpose is to make it easier for companies to develop, use and share data, models and use cases securely and efficiently.

This project is funded with European funds from the program Retech (Technological Specialization Networks) It has an approximate investment of 7,6 million euros. The idea is for the platform to act as a meeting point between companies, technology developers, research centers, and public administrations, accelerating the digitalization of Madrid's business sector.

Among the main planned functionalities, access to advanced data analysis tools, repositories of anonymized datasets, libraries of sector-specific use cases, testing environments for AI models, and resources to ensure regulatory compliance, especially with regard to data protection and algorithmic transparency.

The impetus for this platform fits with the Community of Madrid's strategy to consolidate itself as benchmark in innovation and business growthBy combining training programs, financial support, and shared technological resources, the gap between large corporations and SMEs in terms of access to and use of advanced technologies is reduced.

The aim is to enable smaller companies to compete in a globalized environment without falling behind international players or companies with larger R&D budgets. AI is no longer a luxury for a select few but has become a cross-cutting tool available to the entire regional production sector.

Cookies, consent and user experience on accelerator websites

Many websites linked to accelerators, innovation hubs, and public or private programs include notices explaining the use of cookies and similar technologies to manage device informationThe main objective is usually to improve the browsing experience and adapt content or advertisements to the user's interests.

These notices detail that first-party and third-party cookies are used to store and/or access unique identifiersThis data is used to analyze browsing behavior and, in some cases, to display personalized or non-personalized advertising based on the consent given. Users can accept, reject, or configure these preferences, which may affect the functionality of certain site features.

When a person does not consent to the use of certain cookies, the site administrators warn that Some functionalities may be negatively affectedThis can result in limitations in forms, problems playing multimedia content, errors in login systems, or loss of personalization in the displayed content.

From a legal point of view, providing clear information about the type of data processed, the purposes and the third parties involved is essential for comply with the GDPR and European privacy regulationsFor this reason, the websites of these initiatives include settings panels where the user can manage their consent preferences at any time.

All of this highlights that the digital layer of accelerators and innovation programs is not limited to displaying corporate information: it must also to guarantee a safe, transparent experience that is aligned with users' rightsespecially regarding the processing of personal information and online behavior.

Data Monitoring, Via Galicia and monitoring projects

In the field of regional accelerators, the case of Data Monitoring and its participation in initiatives such as Business Factory Food (BFFood) and Via GaliciaThese boosting platforms have enabled the company to develop and deploy real-time monitoring solutions in sectors such as water, agri-food, and livestock management.

In the context of BFFoodData Monitoring, an accelerator specializing in the food sector, has worked on data monitoring and analysis projects that enable participating companies to improve their operational efficiency and the quality of their processes. Collaboration with large companies in the sector is especially valuable, as they contribute in-depth market knowledge, technical resources, and support in validating use cases.

Various press releases related to Via Galicia These reports detail specific actions taken by Data Monitoring in various Galician municipalities. For example, the Abadín City Council entrusted the company with implementing real-time monitoring of two of its main water reservoirs, including the As Cavadas facility, crucial for the municipal water supply. Another noteworthy case is that of O Valadouro, where the reservoirs of Ferreira, Budián, Cabreiro, and Ribadela are monitored, providing up-to-date information on levels and status at all times.

The Antas de Ulla Town Council has also opted for these solutions, incorporating monitoring systems in reservoirs such as San Fiz and PenaThe first study addressed the specific case of a double-walled reservoir with independent levels, also integrated with a solar-powered system. This combines energy sustainability and smart water resource management, two key priorities on the agenda of many local governments.

Another interesting project is Data Monitoring's participation in a R&D Operational Group focused on the agricultural and livestock fieldTogether with the Lugo Agri-food Technology Center (Cetal), the As Vacas da Ulloa Cooperative, 2xMil SCG, and the PS Vet DairyQuality Veterinary Group, this project explores data monitoring applications to optimize milk production, animal health, and farm sustainability.

The company has also developed solutions aimed at entities such as Ribeira de Piquín and A Pastoriza, which launched a mobile application for check the water reserves in your tanksThis app, the result of accumulated experience in monitoring, allows municipal officials to have reliable and immediate information, improving both decision-making and communication with citizens in situations of scarcity or incidents.

Agrobiotech: promotion of innovative Galician SMEs

Within the Galician ecosystem of support for entrepreneurship, the Agrobiotech Program has established itself as a key instrument to promote innovation in strategic sectors. In its third edition, this initiative promoted by the Department of Economy, Employment and Industry of the Xunta, through the Galician Innovation Agency (Gain), and by the Galician Technology Park (Tecnópole), is specifically aimed at SMEs in the agri-food, biotechnology and biomass fields.

The program is designed so that twelve small and medium-sized enterprises with high innovative potential can accelerate the development of new products, services, or processes. It's not just about supporting them in the initial stages, but about facilitating their consolidation of their competitive positioning, access to foreign markets, and leveraging synergies with research centers and other technology companies.

Agrobiotech combines actions of strategic mentoring, technology advice, and support in finding fundingThe selected companies receive guidance to align their R&D with real market demands, design innovation roadmaps, and explore public-private partnership opportunities. Furthermore, knowledge transfer from the scientific community to the business sector is actively promoted.

These types of programs are especially relevant in sectors such as agri-food or biomass, where innovation often requires significant investments in laboratory, testing, certifications and regulatory adaptationWithout specialized support and access to support networks, many SMEs would be forced to halt or abandon projects with great potential impact.

Thanks to the coordination between Gain, Tecnópole and other agents of the Galician ecosystem, Agrobiotech has become an example of how Sector-specific acceleration programs can transform the productive fabricgenerating skilled employment, improving sustainability and fostering the international competitiveness of companies that would otherwise find it more difficult to make the leap.

La Nave: the great innovation hub of the Madrid City Council

In the case of Madrid, one of the most emblematic spaces linked to innovation is La Nave, the innovation center of the Madrid City CouncilIt is a large hub that brings together different physical spaces for the development of events, training programs, community meetings and, of course, intensive acceleration programs for startups.

The Ship offers a acceleration program specifically geared towards startups that already have a viable product or serviceThat is, projects that have moved beyond the purely idea phase and need support to grow, validate their business model on a larger scale, and access new funding avenues or strategic alliances.

The priority sectors of this program are very diverse and aligned with major urban and social challenges. These include: Smart-City, eHealth and Sportstech, Sustainability and Circular Economy, EdTech, Fintech and Insurtech, as well as Retail, Tourism and HospitalityThis sectoral diversity enriches the La Nave ecosystem, as it allows projects from different fields to share learning, contacts and common technological solutions.

In each call for applications, the following are selected: up to 30 startups They gain access to a free acceleration program lasting approximately six months. During this time, they have access to workspace at La Nave's facilities, theoretical and practical training provided by expert professionals, mentoring, and individual tutoring to address the specific challenges of each project.

In addition to the training, one of the great added values ​​of the program is the possibility of network with key players in the ecosystemInvestors, large corporations, public administrations, universities, and developer communities are all involved. Access to both public and private funding is also facilitated, and the visibility of participating startups is promoted through media and marketing strategies. digital marketing industry.

This combination of physical resources, expert guidance, and connection with the environment makes La Nave a A point of reference for any entrepreneur who wants to settle in MadridFor many startups, participating in their acceleration program represents a turning point in terms of product maturity, commercial traction, and credibility with potential partners and investors.

Many ways to accelerate a project: choose the one that fits best.

The overview offered by cases such as IndesIA, Agrobiotech, BFFood, Vía Galicia, Data Monitoring or La Nave shows that There is no single way to accelerate a companyEach program has its focus: some specialize in very specific sectors; others focus on horizontal technologies such as artificial intelligence; some emphasize the connection with large corporations; and others prioritize the creation of community and open innovation spaces.

For an entrepreneur or an SME, the key lies in identify what type of support is needed at any given timeIn the very early stages, a community environment with ample basic training, networking opportunities, and rapid validation can be more beneficial. In later stages, it may make more sense to join a program with a strong technological component, access to labs, data, or specialized platforms, such as those being developed around AI.

It is also important to assess whether the project is a better fit for a highly specialized sectoral programThese options include programs focused on agri-food, biotechnology, or biomass, or a more general program with strong international reach and institutional support, such as those offered by some leading urban hubs. Each option has its advantages: technical specialization and access to very specific niches on the one hand, or greater cross-cutting visibility and diverse opportunities on the other.

In addition, there is a practical aspect that is often overlooked: the compatibility between the program's physical location and the team's realityAlthough much content is now hybrid or digital, on-site presence remains key to maximizing mentoring, networking, and other activities. That's why initiatives like those of the Community of Madrid or the Xunta de Galicia are so relevant to their regions, as they bring high-level resources to the areas where most of their SMEs operate.

With all these pieces in play, entrepreneurs today have Many more alternatives than a few years ago to boost your businessThe combination of European funding, institutional support, strong local ecosystems, and collaborations with large technology companies is creating a very favorable environment for good ideas to become robust and scalable projects.

This entire network of accelerators, public programs, innovation hubs, and real-world cases demonstrates that Anyone wanting to give their project a serious boost has tools and spaces at their disposalThe key is to be well informed, choose the program that best suits your current situation and sector, and make the most of the training, mentoring, and collaboration opportunities offered by these initiatives, which are already transforming both the entrepreneurial fabric and that of SMEs in multiple regions.