Spain

Between 2008 and 2013, Spain’s GDP saw minimal or negative growth year-over-year according to data from the The World Bank. Youth unemployment rates reached nearly 56% in 2013, making it the second most challenging economy for new graduates in the European Union, after Greece. With an increasing number of young people entering the workforce with few traditional job prospects, entrepreneurship has been on the rise – an estimated half of Spain’s entrepreneurs are currently between the ages of 18 and 34. Spurred in part by necessity, the rate of new startups in the region has increased over 8% and registrations of self-employed individuals increased by over 20,000 in the beginning of 2013. At the same time, however, only 5% of these startup companies reported employing 10 or more people, demonstrating the lack of proper resources and support for entrepreneurial growth. This is where Endeavor sees the potential for its model to transform the economy and foster an ecosystem of entrepreneurs whose businesses are able to move beyond the startup stage to become high-impact, pioneering ventures.

Given access to the right mix of mentors, business networks, capital and strategic advice, Endeavor Entrepreneurs have the potential to attract top talent and investments to the regions that need it the most.  With a favorable environment for entrepreneurial growth, Spain has the necessary infrastructure to build a support network for businesses that can not only boost the economy, but also create a key market for jobs. In addition, an ecosystem of successful entrepreneurs will serve as vital role models and investors for future generations, creating a solid foundation for economic recovery and empowerment for years to come.