The Top 20 Startup Competitions in Spain You Should Enter 

Spain has rapidly emerged as a hub for startups, thanks to its dynamic culture, robust support systems, and a growing network of investors and entrepreneurs. If you're looking to take your startup to the next level, participating in startup competitions can provide the exposure, funding, and connections you need. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the top 20 startup competitions in Spain you should consider entering this year.

1. South Summit

What it is: South Summit is one of Europe's leading startup events, attracting entrepreneurs, investors, and corporations from around the world.

Why enter: Extensive networking opportunities, substantial media exposure, and the potential for significant investment.

Website: South Summit

2. SeedRocket

What it is: A prominent accelerator in Spain that offers an intensive bootcamp and competition for early-stage startups.

Why enter: Access to mentorship from successful entrepreneurs, funding opportunities, and a strong alumni network.

Website: SeedRocket

3. Startup Olé

What it is: A major startup event held in Salamanca, connecting startups with investors, accelerators, and media.

Why enter: Visibility, networking with key players in the startup ecosystem, and the chance to pitch to top investors.

4. Wayra Spain

What it is: The innovation arm of Telefónica, Wayra supports tech startups through funding and resources.

Why enter: Direct access to Telefónica’s extensive network, funding, and business development support.

Website: Wayra Spain

5. Bbooster Week

What it is: An event where startups pitch to investors and compete for investment.

Why enter: Immediate funding opportunities and valuable feedback from investors and mentors.

Website: Bbooster

6. Lanzadera

What it is: A well-known accelerator in Valencia offering various programs for startups at different stages.

Why enter: Mentorship, funding, and a supportive community to help grow your business.

Website: Lanzadera

7. Conector Startup Accelerator

What it is: An accelerator that focuses on connecting startups with mentors and investors through a structured program.

Why enter: Mentorship from industry experts, networking opportunities, and potential funding.

Website: Conector

8. Bankia Fintech by Innsomnia

What it is: A fintech accelerator that provides support to startups in the financial technology sector.

Why enter: Access to Bankia’s resources, mentorship, and potential partnerships.

Website: Bankia Fintech

9. EIT Food Accelerator Network

What it is: An accelerator focusing on agrifood startups, part of the European Institute of Innovation & Technology.

Why enter: Funding, mentorship, and access to a network of industry experts across Europe.

Website: EIT Food Accelerator Network

10. Demium Startups

What it is: An incubator that helps entrepreneurs from the idea stage to launch.

Why enter: Comprehensive support from ideation to launch, including mentorship, resources, and funding.

Website: Demium

11. IMPACT Accelerator

What it is: An accelerator program funded by the European Commission, focusing on mobile and smart digital content.

Why enter: Funding, mentorship, and a network of European experts and investors.

Website: IMPACT Accelerator

12. TheVentureCity

What it is: An accelerator and venture capital firm that supports high-potential startups.

Why enter: Access to funding, mentorship, and a global network of investors and experts.

Website: TheVentureCity

13. Ship2B

What it is: A social impact accelerator that supports startups aiming to solve social and environmental challenges.

Why enter: Funding, mentorship, and opportunities to create meaningful social impact.

Website: Ship2B

14. Reimagine Textile

What it is: An accelerator program for startups innovating in the textile and fashion industries.

Why enter: Access to industry-specific mentorship, funding, and a network of fashion and textile experts.

Website: Reimagine Textile

15. Fintech Innovation Lab Madrid

What it is: An accelerator focused on fintech startups, offering mentorship and potential partnerships with major financial institutions.

Why enter: Mentorship from financial industry leaders, networking opportunities, and potential investment.

Website: Fintech Innovation Lab

16. Bridge for Billions

What it is: A global online incubator that offers support to early-stage entrepreneurs through structured programs.

Why enter: Comprehensive online support, mentorship, and access to a global network.

Website: Bridge for Billions

17. RIC Startup Awards

What it is: A competition organized by the Red de Inversores y Creadores, promoting innovative startups.

Why enter: Funding, mentorship, and extensive media exposure.

18. Top Seed Lab

What it is: An accelerator that supports tech startups through mentorship and investment.

Why enter: Access to funding, expert mentorship, and a strong network of investors.

19. Startup Weekend Spain

What it is: A weekend-long event where entrepreneurs pitch ideas, form teams, and develop startups.

Why enter: Intensive hands-on experience, mentorship, and networking with like-minded entrepreneurs.

Website: Startup Weekend Spain

20. FICOD

What it is: An international forum on digital content that includes a startup competition.

Why enter: Exposure to digital industry leaders, funding opportunities, and networking.

Conclusion

Spain offers a vibrant ecosystem for startups, with numerous competitions providing valuable opportunities for growth, funding, and networking. Whether you're an early-stage startup or looking to scale, these competitions can help you gain the visibility and support you need to succeed. Prepare your pitches, refine your business models, and get ready to compete in these top startup competitions in 2024.