On December 10 in Santiago de Compostela, the second meeting of the forum dedicated to Galicia’s investment potential will take place. The event will be held in the historic San Francisco hotel-museum and will bring together representatives from government, business, and academia. The forum is organized by the regional government along with major companies such as Abanca, Ence, and Telefónica.
The main goal of the meeting is to discuss how Galicia can preserve its unique identity while developing modern industries and entering the global market. The forum will be opened by María Jesús Lorenzana, who is responsible for the region’s economy and industry. After the welcoming remarks, participants will begin a series of discussions on the future of Galicia’s economy.
Export and quality
The first panel session will focus on exports and improving product quality. Participants will discuss how the region has become a symbol of reliability and innovation, drawing on strong traditions in agriculture and forestry. Today, these sectors are closely linked with finance and telecommunications, which helps create new jobs and strengthen the economy.
At the heart of the discussions will be the question: how do modern technologies and new forms of cooperation between the public and private sectors help Galicia remain competitive? Special attention will be given to the role of universities and research centers, which are becoming sources of fresh ideas and talent for local companies.
Technology and education
Leading regional experts will participate in the forum. Among them are Juan Carlos Ramos, partner at PwC in Galicia, Covadonga Toca Carús, director of Igape, Fernando Jiménez, director of the major research center Gradiant in Vigo, and Rubén Blanco Fernández, founder of Torgo Corporate and project manager in the electric vehicle sector.
They will discuss how the region combines traditional values with modern business approaches. Special attention will be given to biotechnology development, support for startups, and the creation of new entrepreneurial clusters. Galicia is investing in its own universities—Universidade da Coruña, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, and Universidade de Vigo—which are becoming magnets for young professionals.
Industry 4.0
The forum will explore how the ‘Industry 4.0’ concept is being put into practice. Participants will discuss the adoption of digital solutions, automation of production, and the development of clean technologies. Galicia aims to set an example for other regions, demonstrating that innovation can go hand in hand with respect for cultural heritage.
A key topic will be supporting local entrepreneurs and creating conditions for small and medium-sized business growth. The forum is designed to serve as a platform for sharing experience and finding new partners, which is especially important in a globally competitive environment.
The Future of the Region
Organizers are confident that Galicia can not only preserve its traditions, but also become a leader in new technologies. The region is actively investing in human capital development, supporting scientific research, and introducing innovative solutions across various sectors—from agriculture to high-tech industries.
The forum will conclude with a discussion on the prospects for Galicia’s further growth and integration into the global economy. Participants will have the opportunity to exchange views, establish business contacts, and learn about new investment opportunities.
If you weren’t aware, Abanca is one of the largest banks in Galicia and actively supports local innovation projects and startups. Ence specializes in cellulose production and biotechnology, while Telefónica is a leading telecommunications operator in Spain, investing in the region’s digital infrastructure. Xunta de Galicia is the government of the autonomous community, implementing sustainability strategies and promoting cooperation between business and science.
