In 2024, the Madrid region reinforced its position as the leading destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) in Spain, attracting €24.7 billion, which represents 67.1% of the national total. This figure consolidates the region’s role as one of Europe’s foremost hubs for international capital. The United States emerged as one of the top contributors, accounting for €3.24 billion, or 13.1% of total FDI in the region—an indication of the trust U.S. companies place in Madrid’s economic stability, strategic location, and dynamic business climate.
American investment in Madrid has proven both diverse and strategic, covering a wide range of industries including technology, healthcare, tourism, food, real estate, and professional services. From global tech giants to agile mid-sized companies, a broad spectrum of U.S. firms is choosing Madrid as the epicenter of their European operations. In the digital infrastructure space, Microsoft launched Spain Central, its first cloud region in the country, further solidifying Madrid’s reputation as a growing tech and data hub. Meanwhile, Electronic Arts transformed a historic gas factory into its new creative headquarters in the city.
In the life sciences sector, Eli Lilly continues to invest in its R&D center in Alcobendas, focused on preclinical research and innovation. The tourism and hospitality industry is also attracting U.S. capital, with brands like Sheraton, Nobu Hotels, and U-Music Hotels working on new projects in the capital. In the food sector, Kraft Heinz opened its first European Culinary Center in Madrid to support innovation and professional training.
Additionally, firms such as Milliman have opened a Center of Excellence for Modeling, and ABB Robotics has launched a robotics training and demo center focused on Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR). The year concluded with the opening of Forbes House Madrid, a private members club designed for top global entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders—the first of its kind in Europe.
Madrid offers a compelling package for international investors: a strategic location bridging Europe, Latin America, and Africa; world-class infrastructure; a robust transport and communications network; and access to highly qualified talent from top universities. These advantages, combined with legal certainty and investor-friendly public policies, position Madrid as a premier destination for U.S. companies aiming to expand, innovate, and lead in Europe