One of the main questions entrepreneurs have when thinking about launching their startup in Galicia is understanding the key steps to successful entrepreneurship, current trends, and the resources available to them.
Through this article, we aim to provide an overview that serves as a practical guide to taking the first steps on the entrepreneurial journey.
The first steps: From dream to reality
- Define your idea: Start by identifying a real problem and an innovative solution. Remember that in Galicia we strongly support entrepreneurs and have many business opportunities.
- Research the market: Analyse competitors and your target audience. Galicia offers unique opportunities, especially in the technology and biotechnology sectors.
- Create a business plan: This document will serve as your roadmap. Include a detailed financial analysis as well as your marketing and growth strategies. This step is essential to ensure your idea develops in an organised way.
It is also very important to reflect on your project’s financing, the key to taking off.
One of the greatest challenges faced by Galician entrepreneurs is access to funding, but there are several options available through the support offered by the Xunta de Galicia. Through its ecosystem, you can access different financing options, such as those from Igape, which provides grants and aid available through the aid simulator of the Economic Office of Galicia, or aid aimed at promoting self-employment and entrepreneurial activity.
Trends and opportunities in Galicia
- Digitalisation: Digital transformation is a priority for Galician businesses. Consider how you can integrate digital technologies into your project or provide solutions to the main needs of Galician companies.
- Artificial Intelligence: AI is revolutionising many sectors and ways of working. Think about how you can apply it to improve processes, create new products, or deliver agile solutions that add value to your business.
- Biotechnology: Galicia continues to excel in this field, maintaining its leading position nationally. If your idea is in this sector, you are in the right place.
- Open innovation: Programmes like Activa Startups, which promote collaboration between startups and established companies, can provide new entrepreneurs with the boost they need.
The Galician ecosystem
It can also be extremely helpful to get to know the Galician ecosystem that supports startup growth and entrepreneurship. Examples include:
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Accelerator networks: The Xunta offers acceleration programmes to boost your project, providing support and mentoring throughout different stages or by sector focus.
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Business incubators: Shared workspaces offering advice during the early stages of your business.
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Networking: Participating in events and trade fairs is an excellent opportunity to connect with other entrepreneurs, potential clients, and investors.
“The only way to undertake is through knowledge, innovation, and technology.” — Covadonga Toca Carús, Director General of Igape
Key tips for success
There is no magic formula, and not all projects are alike, but in general, you should consider the following recommendations to help your idea succeed:
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Constantly train yourself: Knowledge is power. Take advantage of educational resources that improve your business management skills and provide a broader vision.
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Seek advice: Use all the support offered by the Xunta de Galicia to advance efficiently and resolve your doubts.
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Be resilient: The entrepreneurial path is not easy, but with effort and perseverance, you can overcome obstacles.
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Always innovate: In Galicia, we firmly believe that “the only way to undertake is through knowledge, innovation, and technology”, as highlighted by Igape’s Director General, Covadonga Toca Carús, in the article published in El Referente.
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Learn from local success stories: Draw inspiration from the success stories of leading Galician companies and innovative businesses.
Launching a startup in Galicia is a challenge full of opportunities. With the right combination of innovation, perseverance, and use of available resources, you can turn your idea into a successful business. Galicia is fully committed to entrepreneurial talent, particularly in the technology and biotechnology fields. Don’t let fear of the unknown hold your project back.
Take advantage of the tools and support our community offers and take the first step towards your entrepreneurial dream. The Economic Office of Galicia is by your side.
If you are an SME, self-employed, or an entrepreneur and have doubts or need help with your idea or business, you can request free advice through the online form on our website. One click, no paperwork, no waiting, no cost. By your side for whatever you need.
The future of Galicia lies in the hands of entrepreneurs and companies that pursue improvement and growth.
