As part of the 15th edition of South Summit, the largest entrepreneurship and innovation event in Southern Europe, whose 2026 theme focuses on Artificial Intelligence, Luis Socías, Managing Director of Invest in Madrid, participated in a round table alongside Julien Codorniou, general partner at 20VC, moderated by Daniela Leal, partner at EJASO.
During the discussion, participants analysed whether Europe can move from creating startups to achieving a global dimension, and what changes are needed to make this happen, both in terms of private capital and public policy frameworks, market access, artificial intelligence, advanced technology, and defence.
Every year, more startups are created in Europe than in the US. In particular, there are already around 35,000 companies in their early stages and approximately 3,400 growth-stage technology companies across the European Union. However, only 8% of global scaleups are headquartered in Europe.
In this regard, the speakers addressed topics such as what Europe does well when it comes to early-stage innovation and what still holds us back, as well as what typically differentiates a successful European startup in its growth phase from a global leader in its sector.
In the Region of Madrid, we have an open, predictable and secure business-friendly economy, with a competitive tax system that prioritises international investment. Our region offers a business environment committed to reducing bureaucracy and avoiding over-regulation.
We are the only region in Spain without regional taxes, with the lowest and most competitive tax burden in the country, following two decades of tax reductions.
That is why the major private investors who choose to establish themselves in Madrid find here a place where they can enjoy not only an excellent climate, a remarkable cultural and gastronomic environment, and a platform from which to explore Europe, but also a great ally to maximise the return on their investment.