Four keys to successfully start a business in Barcelona as an international professional

Barcelona is now one of the leading innovation and entrepreneurship hubs in southern Europe. Professionals from around the world decide to settle there to develop their business venture, attracted by an open and dynamic ecosystem.

As part of the activities organised by Barcelona at the 2025 Guadalajara International Book Fair, two Mexican entrepreneurs established in the city shared recommendations for entrepreneurs interested in starting a business in Barcelona.

Jaime Juliá and Mariana Reyna, graduates from Tecnológico de Monterrey, offered young Mexican talents and entrepreneurs an insight into the Catalan capital with information, advice and personal experiences that could inspire new professional paths.

1. Start by building a network of contacts

One of the key factors is the importance of establishing a solid network of contacts from day one. Getting to know the city, identifying its resources and being part of communities (professional, cultural or newcomers) helps entrepreneurs to orient themselves, find support and speed up their adaptation. Networks such as international groups of residents or local communities allow entrepreneurs to open doors on both a personal and professional level.

2. Harness Barcelona’s entrepreneurial resources

Barcelona offers a unique environment for developing new business projects. Public entities such as Barcelona Activa, the city’s economic development agency, provide training, advice, incubation programmes, coworking spaces and specialist support throughout all phases of the project. Integrating into this ecosystem facilitates access to knowledge, resources and opportunities to grow a business idea.

3. Adapt to the local culture, without giving up your background

“Doing business abroad involves more than just having a good idea: it requires understanding, integrating and strategically taking advantage of the environment you arrive in”, explained Jaime Juliá.

To start a project in a new country, you need to learn different processes, rhythms and working methods. Understanding the local culture, administrative procedures and the business network is essential. However, adapting does not mean giving up your own values: an international perspective and skills acquired in other parts of the world are a strength that can make a difference and add value to your business.

4. Think globally if you want to sell in Europe

Starting a business in Barcelona is a direct gateway to the European market. There are standardised processes such as invoicing or the free movement of goods and services that make it easier to operate on a regional scale. Thinking internationally from the outset allows you to expand the scope of the project, identify opportunities in other countries and multiply the company’s growth potential.

Barcelona continues to consolidate its position as an international hub of talent and entrepreneurship, offering newcomers an ideal environment to grow professionally and develop innovative projects. If you are considering starting a business in the city, you can find information and resources at Barcelona International Welcome and through the initiatives an programmes of Barcelona Activa, some of which are designed specifically to support international entrepreneurs.