From Local to Global: Spain on the Radar of International Investors

In an increasingly interconnected world, Spain has solidified its position as a key player for international investors. This role was explored in depth during the panel discussion entitled "From Local to Global: Spain on the Radar of International Investors," which was part of Tech Spirit 2024.

The session featured Eduardo Salvo, Managing Partner at Antai Ventures; Alexander Kremer, Partner at Picus Capital; Ben Marrel, CEO at Breega; and Francisco Pinto, Partner at Bynd Venture Capital.

Why Spain? The rising interest of global investors

In 2023, Spanish startups raised over 2.2 billion in funding, making Spain the 4th largest startup ecosystem in Europe. Globally known startups like Glovo, Cabify, Idealista, and Jobandtalent have their roots here.

"International investors are indeed paying attention to what Spanish companies and startups have to offer," began Eduardo Salvo, Managing Partner at Antai Ventures, as he moderated the discussion. Highlighting the wealth of opportunities in Spain, Salvo emphasized, "The innovation ecosystem here is growing, and investors recognize the potential."

Spain has seen a remarkable evolution in its startup ecosystem, attracting attention for its technology, sustainability initiatives, and strategic location. "Spanish startups offer solutions that are not only innovative but also scalable globally," noted Francisco Pinto, Partner at Bynd Venture Capital.

“People with international careers choose Spain as this first step to start a global company”

Alexander Kremer, Partner at Picus Capital

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The perspective of international firms

Ben Marrel, CEO at Breega, emphasized Barcelona’s potential as a leading tech hub, citing the city's combination of key factors necessary to build a strong ecosystem: "Talent is super strong. Barcelona has world-class education and international talent." He also mentioned Breega's early investment in Spain, noting, "Breega started investing in Spain and later decided to open a presence. Now we have a long list of very prominent startups in Spain and we are here to stay."

He also addressed the importance of accommodating families, which can be a significant factor for founders relocating: "It’s powerful when you can provide some sort of American experience where, as a founder, you come to Spain with visas for your family and have access to English-speaking schools as well as Spanish".

Growth of local talent and startups driving Spain’s startup ecosystem

Francisco Pinto, Partner at Bynd Venture Capital, reflected on the growth of the Spanish startup ecosystem, noting the increasing generation of talent: "We've started investing in this market in 2017 and we have just seen that a lot of the local companies have grown and generated a talent bench which is now going out and starting new companies." This observation underscores the positive impact of local entrepreneurship on the broader market.

Spain’s rising importance as a hub for global startups

Alexander Kremer, Partner at Picus Capital, observed that Spain’s market has gained greater importance in recent years, attracting European and international startup founders: "Spain overall as a market is more important today than it used to be 3 years ago for European investors."

He also pointed out the increasing presence of global talent: "People with very international careers choose Spain as this first step to start a global company".  Kremer expressed optimism about Spain's role in the global startup ecosystem: "I think there are amazing Spanish tech startups right now that will also make an impact globally."

The conversation underscored Spain's evolving status as a dynamic and competitive destination for international investors and talent, with its vibrant startup ecosystem attracting global interest. The supportive environment for families and ease of integration for international workers further strengthen Spain’s appeal as a destination for entrepreneurial talent.

Catalonia Trade & Investment: your gateway to success

Catalonia Trade & Investment is at the forefront of helping businesses establish and grow in Barcelona-Catalonia. We provide tailored support to foreign companies, from finding the perfect location to connecting with local talent and partners. Our mission is to position Catalonia as the premier destination for international investment.

Explore how Catalonia can be your launchpad to global success by contacting our team.