Throughout the day, key challenges were identified, such as long development cycles, contingencies associated with public bidding processes, and the need to partner with established players in the defense ecosystem.
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The Association of Industrial Companies of the Community of Madrid (AECIM) has organized a key event for Madrid industrial companies, focused on exploring the opportunities of financing and access to the strategic defense sectorThe event, a collaboration between AECIM and Gedeth Network, aimed to guide companies interested in entering this demanding market.
During the day, moderated by Mario Lobato, president of the AECIM Foreign Trade Commission, highlighted both the potential and challenges inherent in the defense sector. Critical issues identified included lengthy development cycles, the complexities of public bidding, and the imperative need to forge partnerships with established companies in the defense ecosystem.
Financing and Strategies for Access
Beatriz Torralba, Senior Innovation Manager at Gedeth Network, a global consulting firm with a presence in over 70 countries, detailed the main funding avenues available. Torralba highlighted large-scale programs such as PERTE Aerospace, endowed with 2.193 billion euros, and the European Defense Fund, which allocates €2024 billion for 1.200. He also mentioned other CDTI initiatives that promote dual innovation, applicable to both the civilian and military sectors.
The practical experience was shared by industry leaders. Ricardo Rojo Ocaña, CEO of JPG Group, emphasized the importance of establishing strong relationships with suppliers who can become strategic partners, and stressed the need for specialized teams to be competitive. For his part, Rafael ChávarriCEO Solintal, offered a perspective from the trenches of a certified subcontractor, illustrating the real challenges and opportunities that the sector presents for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Commitment to Industrial Development
The day concluded with the words of Jose Maria Roncero, Secretary General of AECIM, who reaffirmed the organization's commitment. Roncero highlighted AECIM's work in creating essential information spaces and channels for promoting the internationalization and strategic development of Madrid-based industrial companies.
This event underscores the growing interest of companies in the region in diversifying their operations and entering a sector that, while complex, offers significant opportunities for growth and technological development.
