F/MS Top Startup Cities

5 min read

Gijón, Spain #614

City Scores

City Total Score

0.26

Overall ranking score

Quality Score

0.04

Ecosystem quality rating

Quantity Score

0.02

Ecosystem size rating

Business Score

0.2

Business environment rating

Score Distribution

Score Comparison

MeanCEO Index Click to scroll to details

58

Startup Ecosystem in Gijón 🌟

TL;DR

Gijón is currently ranked as the 614th city in the Global F/MS “Best Cities for Startups” Index. With its burgeoning tech scene and a supportive community for innovators, Gijón is making strides toward becoming a startup-friendly destination.

Startup-Friendly Stuff 📈

1. Ease of Company Registration

  • Business Registration: Processes are streamlined, making it easier for entrepreneurs to kickstart their ventures.
  • Local Incentives: The city government is focused on providing policies that foster business growth.

2. Employment Law 🏢

  • Labor Regulations: Comprehensive yet manageable; protecting employee rights while promoting startup adaptability.
  • Hiring Foreign Talent: Formal processes in place, with certain permits needed for non-EU citizens.

3. Taxation 💰

  • Corporate Tax Rate: Competitive rates, with possible reductions for startups, fostering a welcoming environment for new businesses.
  • Subsidy Programs: Several grants available which can help mitigate initial costs.

4. Quality of Life 🌆

  • Living Standards: High quality of life, with affordable living compared to larger cities in Spain.
  • Culture and Leisure: Vibrant cultural scene, plenty of parks, museums, and opportunities for outdoor activities.

5. Bureaucracy 🗂️

  • Ease of Navigation: Relatively low levels of bureaucracy; most procedures can be executed smoothly.
  • Government Support: Local initiatives actively promote innovation and provide resources for startups.

6. Visas for Entrepreneurs 🌍

  • Startup Visas & Permits: Accessible pathways for foreign entrepreneurs wishing to establish businesses.
  • Residency Options: Various residency permits aimed at investors and entrepreneurs.

Startup Community 🤝

7. Networking Events

  • Regular meetups and pitch events to connect local entrepreneurs.
  • Festivals and tech fairs that promote local startups and innovation.

8. Subsidies and Funding 💵

  • Opportunities through public funding and various EU grants specifically targeted at tech startups.
  • Partnerships with local banks and financial institutions for additional support.

9. Venture Capital (VC) Presence

  • Investments: Growing interest from VCs looking to tap into Gijón’s unique ecosystem.
  • Major Firms: Notable venture capitalists focused on tech, sustainability, and health sectors.

10. Incubators & Accelerators 🚀

  • A variety of programs available for early-stage companies, providing mentorship, networking, and funding opportunities.
  • Focus on sectors like technology, renewable energy, and tourism-related startups.

Technology & Industry Priorities 🔧

  • Focus Areas: Tech innovations, renewable energy, biotechnology, and cultural tourism.
  • Government Initiatives: Prioritizing sustainable development and tech-led economic growth.

Business Culture 🏙️

  • Language: Spanish is predominantly spoken; English is becoming common in the startup community.
  • Work Environment: Collaborative and innovative, with a strong emphasis on community and shared success.

General Pros and Cons ⚖️

Pros:

  • Increasing support for startups from local and regional governments.
  • Affordable living costs compared to larger metropolitan areas.
  • Active community with rich cultural and networking opportunities.

Cons:

  • Still developing compared to major startup hubs in Spain.
  • Limited access to large-scale funding compared to larger cities.

Initiatives for Female Entrepreneurs 👩‍💼

  • Emphasis on empowering women in business with resources and networking initiatives.
  • Specific programs aiding funding and mentorship for women-led startups.

Gijón is steadily paving its way into the startup scene, positioning itself as an attractive locale for entrepreneurs looking for a supportive, community-driven environment. 🚀

MeanCEO Index for Gijón 🌟

Gijón is on the rise as a startup city, but how does it measure up for female entrepreneurs? Let’s evaluate the MeanCEO Index score based on ten critical elements that affect the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

1. Weather ☀️

  • Score: 5/10
    • Gijón experiences a temperate maritime climate with moderate rainfall. While winters are not too harsh, the number of sunny days may not rival that of cities like Valencia or Malaga.

2. Location 🏖️

  • Score: 6/10
    • Situated on the northern coast of Spain, Gijón offers access to beaches along the Cantabrian Sea. However, swimming conditions can be cooler than in southern regions, which limits beach activity for much of the year.

3. Women Friendly 👩‍💼

  • Score: 7/10
    • Spanish culture emphasizes gender equality, and Gijón is no exception. With initiatives to empower women in business, the environment is encouraging and supportive, though societal challenges remain.

4. Foreigners Friendly 🌍

  • Score: 6/10
    • Gijón is relatively welcoming, but as a smaller city, locals may be less accustomed to interacting with foreigners compared to larger urban centers. However, locals are generally friendly and open to new connections.

5. English as a Business Language 📚

  • Score: 5/10
    • While English is becoming more prevalent due to the startup boom, Spanish remains dominant. Non-Spanish speakers may face language barriers, especially in formal business settings.

6. Delicious Cuisine 🍷

  • Score: 8/10
    • Gijón is known for its delicious Asturian cuisine, including specialties like cider (sidra) and hearty pastries. The local focus on fresh produce and traditional flavors makes dining in Gijón an enjoyable experience.

7. Ease of Getting Married and Starting a Family 💍

  • Score: 6/10
    • The dating culture in Gijón is social and vibrant, with an emphasis on family values. However, the scope for meeting new people can be limited in smaller social circles.

8. Medicine 🏥

  • Score: 7/10
    • Healthcare in Gijón is generally accessible with a network of public and private services. Wait times for appointments can vary, but overall costs are reasonable compared to many other European cities.

9. Ease of Transportation & Traveling 🚍

  • Score: 6/10
    • Gijón has decent public transportation options, but it lacks a major international airport. Travel options are available, but reaching larger hubs may require extra effort.

10. Startup Mindset 💡

  • Score: 7/10
    • The culture in Gijón is evolving with an increasing acceptance of failure as part of the entrepreneurial journey. Supportive initiatives are fostering a community that values innovation and resilience among startups.

MeanCEO Index Score: 58/100 🎉

Gijón is emerging as a supportive environment for female entrepreneurs with potential for growth! The friendly local culture, delicious cuisine, and increasing government support for startups create a solid foundation. While it has its challenges—such as language barriers and limited international connectivity—Gijón is carving out its niche in the startup landscape. For women looking to dive into the entrepreneurial world, Gijón offers a promising place to grow and thrive! 🚀