Lanzadera Accelerator

Lanzadera Accelerator, based in Valencia, Spain, is a prominent private accelerator founded in 2013 by Juan Roig, president of the supermarket chain Mercadona. It operates as a key pillar of Marina de Empresas, an entrepreneurial ecosystem that also includes EDEM Business School and Angels Capital, a venture capital firm. Lanzadera's core mission is to empower entrepreneurs by providing comprehensive support, resources, and funding to develop and scale robust business models. Its unique position, backed by a successful business leader, allows it to offer a structured environment aimed at fostering innovation and job creation within the Spanish economy.

The accelerator offers a tiered program structure designed to cater to startups at various stages of development. The "Garaje" program targets very early-stage ideas, providing initial support and validation. Companies with a validated product or service can enter the "Campus" program, while the "Aceleración" program is geared towards ventures with established traction seeking to scale. For more mature companies aiming for significant growth, the "Scale Up" program offers advanced resources. Funding is typically provided through participatory loans, which can be converted into equity or repaid, aligning the accelerator's success with that of its portfolio companies.

Since its inception, Lanzadera has made a significant impact on the Spanish startup landscape, having supported over 1,200 startups across various sectors. The initial funding amounts vary considerably depending on the program and the startup's needs. For instance, the "Garaje" program can provide up to €3,000 (approximately $3,240 USD) for initial development, while the "Scale Up" program can extend up to €500,000 (approximately $540,000 USD) in participatory loans for more advanced ventures. This flexible funding approach, combined with mentorship and access to a vast network, positions Lanzadera as a crucial enabler for entrepreneurial growth in Spain, leveraging the substantial investment of over €300 million by Juan Roig into the broader Marina de Empresas ecosystem.