Business Financing
The Madrid Chamber of Commerce and Grant Thornton have analyzed, in a conference, the financing opportunities for companies beyond the Next Generation funds, which conclude in 2026. Experts point out that the key now lies in strategic planning and knowledge of a more specialized aid ecosystem.
The ecosystem of public aid is transforming as the Next Generation cycle comes to a close
La Cámara de Comercio de Madrid and the consultant Grant Thornton have explained, in a conference held in MadridThe keys for companies to access national and European public funding as the funding cycle comes to an end Next Generation in 2026, highlighting the need for greater specialization in project management.
The meeting, titled “Financing and Funds: Available Opportunities to Transform Your Business,” highlighted that, while the main European recovery program is coming to an end, a wide range of financing programs remain available to continue driving innovation, digitalization, and growth within the Spanish business sector. According to the speakers, the key will be companies' ability to navigate a more competitive and technologically advanced environment.
Strategic vision as a differentiating factor
The event was opened by Eva Serrano, first vice-president of the Cámara de Comercio de Madridwho emphasized that supporting companies in their modernization and internationalization processes is a central mission of the entity. Serrano valued the role of Club Cámara Madrid as a collaborative ecosystem to access high-value resources and knowledge.
The vice president emphasized the progressive closure of the funds Next Generation This does not represent the end of opportunities, but rather the beginning of a new stage. "Knowing the map of available aid, understanding the grant lifecycle, preparing solid projects, and properly managing their monitoring and justification are now essential skills for any company that wants to innovate, grow, or modernize its operations," he stated. Serrano.
For its part, Jorge JiménezPublic Sector partner of Grant Thornton, provided a practical perspective on the challenges associated with managing these funds. According to JiménezThe increasing level of specialization required by these calls for proposals makes rigorous strategic planning and a thorough understanding of management and justification procedures essential. This factor, he noted, is crucial for maximizing the chances of success and ensuring the proper use of available public resources.
| Key Phases in Grant Management | Expert Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Opportunities identification | Conduct an active mapping of national and European aid aligned with the company's strategy. |
| Project Preparation | Prepare solid, detailed technical and economic reports that meet the evaluation criteria of the call for proposals. |
| Management and Monitoring | Implement rigorous administrative and technical monitoring of funded projects to meet deadlines and milestones. |
| Final Justification | Properly document and justify all expenses and investments to avoid reimbursements and ensure financing. |
The event, held at the headquarters of the chamber of commerce, reaffirms the commitment of the Cámara de Comercio de Madrid by providing companies in the region with tools and practical knowledge to strengthen their competitiveness in a constantly transforming global market.
Key points and frequently asked questions about post-Next Generation business financing
Will all European aid for Spanish companies end in 2026?
No. What ends is the cycle of the specific program. Next Generation USdesigned for post-pandemic recovery. However, the multiannual financial framework of the Unión Europea and national programs to support innovation, digitalization and sustainability remain active with their own calls for proposals and budgets.
What changes for my company when applying for a grant now?
The main change is the increase in specialization and competition. It's no longer about large, general calls for proposals, but rather more specific programs that demand well-defined projects aligned with concrete objectives. The quality of the technical report and the strategic planning of the project are now more important than ever.
What should exporters know about these new lines of financing?
Exporters should be aware of programs that finance expansion into new markets, adaptation of products to international regulations, digitalization of foreign trade processes, or the implementation of sustainability (ESG) strategies. Many of these programs aim precisely to strengthen the international competitiveness of Spanish companies.
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