Barcelona has become one of Europe’s top startup hubs, combining a Mediterranean lifestyle with cutting-edge innovation. The city boasts a thriving tech ecosystem, robust infrastructure, and an active entrepreneurial community, making it an ideal base for launching and growing a business. From accelerators and incubators to funding opportunities, coworking spaces, and support networks, Barcelona offers a wealth of resources for both local and international founders. This guide highlights the key tools and organizations available to help startups succeed in this vibrant and dynamic city.
Accelerators
Acelero Offers a fully funded acceleration program for startups, SMEs, and freelancers up to 5 years old, supported by Peninsula mentors and NextGeneration funds. Acelero aims to help startups connect with investors and establish a foothold in both Spanish and international markets.
SeedRocket Provides training, financing, and a strong network for startups, with a track record of successful alumni such as Marfeel and Kantox. SeedRocket also offers a coworking space and regular events for founders.
Itnig Functions as a tech company group, investment fund, coworking space, and media outlet, supporting scalable product development and startup growth.
Incubators
Barcelona Activa The city’s main economic development agency, offering multiple incubators such as Glòries, La InnoBAdora, La Clota Cotreball, and the Technology Park. These incubators provide office space, mentoring, and access to a network of over 1,500 companies, with an impressive 80% survival rate after four years.
Bcombinator Located in El Poblenou, this incubator offers investment, coworking, and mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs with successful exits.
WAYRA Backed by Telefónica, WAYRA connects startups with corporate partners and provides access to a global network of mentors and investors.
Funding
Masia Angel Fund Recently launched, Masia aims to deploy €20 million in pre-seed and seed investments across Barcelona-based startups, focusing on frontier technologies and international founders. It collaborates with other angel funds and micro-VCs to strengthen the local ecosystem.
Enisa A state-owned entity providing financial support to small and medium-sized enterprises, including startups, through various funding instruments.
Catalan Institute of Finance (ICF) Provides loans and venture capital funding specifically tailored to startups and SMEs.
Specialized Programs
Idees amb Futur (Barcelona Activa) Tailored for young entrepreneurs (16–30 years old), this program offers business plan guidance, individualized tutorials, and funding assistance.
Community and Non-Profits
Tech Barcelona A private non-profit association that supports and promotes the city’s digital and technological ecosystem, connecting startups with investors, corporates, and talent.
Government and Institutional Support
ACCIÓ – Generalitat de Catalunya The Catalan government’s agency for business competitiveness provides grants, internationalization support, and innovation funding for startups.
Red.es Part of the Spanish Ministry of Economic Affairs and Digital Transformation, Red.es offers various digital transformation grants and funding programs.
Events and Networking
4YFN (Four Years From Now) A global startup event part of Mobile World Congress.
Barcelona Startup Week A free, community-driven event focused on education and connection.
Startup Grind Barcelona A monthly event bringing together entrepreneurs and investors.
🚀 See also: our Barcelona Startups Guide for a comprehensive listing of local startups broken down by industry.