Desafia

Desafia represents a strategic initiative jointly developed by Red.es and ICEX aimed at empowering smaller Spanish enterprises to integrate into globally recognized innovation hubs. The program provides comprehensive support through expert-led guidance, strategic accompaniment, and facilitated networking with influential ecosystem stakeholders, creating pathways for Spanish businesses to scale internationally and access new markets.

At its core, Desafia functions as more than just a support service—it has cultivated a vibrant community where entrepreneurs, seasoned mentors, and established corporations converge to share insights, foster collaborations, and drive mutual growth. This collaborative ecosystem approach has proven particularly valuable for Spanish startups seeking to navigate unfamiliar international business environments while maintaining connections to their home market.

The initiative has established a significant global footprint, with operational presence across nine of the world's most dynamic technology and innovation centers. These strategic locations include the entrepreneurial powerhouses of San Francisco and New York, the deep-tech ecosystems of Tel Aviv and Berlin, the financial innovation hubs of London and Boston, alongside emerging centers in the Netherlands, Singapore, and the Nordic region. This extensive international network enables Spanish companies to tap into diverse regional expertise and market opportunities.

Desafia's impact extends beyond simple market entry assistance, as it actively works to position Spanish innovation within the global technology landscape. By connecting domestic talent with international resources, the program has helped numerous Spanish ventures secure foreign investment, establish strategic partnerships, and adapt their business models for global scalability. The initiative represents a cornerstone of Spain's broader strategy to transform its entrepreneurial ecosystem into an internationally recognized source of innovation and technological advancement.