New Initiative to Boost Entrepreneurship in the Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are poised to significantly enhance their entrepreneurial landscape with the launch of the innovative ‘Emprendiendo Talento’ program. This initiative was introduced by Manuel Domínguez, the Vice-President of the Government of the Canary Islands and Minister of Economy, Industry, Commerce, and Self-Employment. The unveiling took place during the ‘Talent and High-Tech Incubators’ event, which gathered key stakeholders in the region’s economic development.
Domínguez emphasized the critical role this program will play in strengthening the islands’ entrepreneurial ecosystem. He articulated that the initiative aims to connect individuals, institutions, and economic agents to foster economic diversification through collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the integration of technology. This holistic approach is expected to create a more vibrant and sustainable economic environment in the Canary Islands.
In-Depth Look at the Emprendiendo Talento Program
The ‘Emprendiendo Talento’ initiative is meticulously designed to provide tailored incubation and acceleration pathways for aspiring entrepreneurs who are eager to start, scale, or innovate from the Canary Islands. This program is part of a broader Support Plan for Entrepreneurship, Self-Employment, and SMEs in the region, which aims to create a robust framework for business development.
In collaboration with the INCYDE Foundation, which is affiliated with the Spanish Chambers of Commerce, a strategic study has been developed to serve as the foundation for this new entrepreneurial roadmap. This comprehensive study meticulously analyzes the entrepreneurial landscape of each island, identifying available resources, opportunities, and infrastructure while suggesting specific actions to enhance the business ecosystem. The insights gained from this study are expected to guide future initiatives and investments in the region.
Strategic Goals and Sector Focus
Javier Collado, Managing Director of the INCYDE Foundation, underscored the importance of this study in reinforcing policies that support entrepreneurship in the Canary Islands. The initiative aims to promote a more innovative, sustainable, and cohesive economy, which is essential for the islands’ long-term growth and competitiveness.
The strategy encompasses a variety of actions aimed at supporting entrepreneurship, including training, infrastructure development, and funding opportunities. A diagnostic report has been created to assess the entrepreneurial ecosystem by island, pinpointing key sectors ripe for development. Notable sectors identified include the blue economy in Gran Canaria, gaming in Tenerife, geothermal energy in La Palma, gastronomic tourism in La Gomera, the primary sector in Fuerteventura, renewable energies in El Hierro, and alternative tourism in Lanzarote. Each of these sectors presents unique opportunities for innovation and growth, aligning with global trends and local strengths.
With a budget of €500,000, co-financed by European Funds, the collaboration with the INCYDE Foundation will facilitate 14 in-person training sessions across all islands. These sessions will focus on various themes, such as Entrepreneurship in Renewable Energies and Circular Economy, Self-Employment with Drones, and Business Management in Creative Industries. This training is expected to cultivate a new generation of entrepreneurial talent that aligns with the unique opportunities and challenges of each territory, ultimately contributing to a more dynamic economic landscape.
Support and Mobility Opportunities for Entrepreneurs
Upon completing their training, entrepreneurs with promising projects may qualify for mobility grants. These grants will enable them to develop their initiatives within a network of 26 high-tech incubators established across the national territory, initiated by the INCYDE Foundation with support from the FEDER fund. This network will provide critical resources and mentorship, allowing entrepreneurs to refine their ideas and bring them to market more effectively.
Domínguez reiterated the program’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey, providing essential tools for success, including training, infrastructure, and funding. This comprehensive support system is designed to empower individuals and foster a culture of innovation throughout the Canary Islands.
Key points
- The ‘Emprendiendo Talento’ program aims to enhance entrepreneurship in the Canary Islands.
- Manuel Domínguez presented the initiative during the ‘Talent and High-Tech Incubators’ event.
- Collaboration with the INCYDE Foundation has led to a strategic study on the islands’ entrepreneurial landscape.
- The program focuses on key sectors such as renewable energies and sustainable tourism.
- A budget of €500,000 has been allocated for training initiatives across the islands.
- Entrepreneurs can access mobility grants to develop projects in high-tech incubators.
