The III edition of the TOP 101 Spain Up Nation seeks the most promising startups in Spain. Applications are open until September 11, 2026.
Spanish startups with less than five years of existence and revenue below five million euros now have a new opportunity to gain national visibility. The Spanish Association of Regional Development Agencies (Foro ADR) and ENISA have opened the call for the third edition of the TOP 101 Spain Up Nation 2026 Awards. The registration deadline is September 11, 2026.
This initiative, which in previous editions has distinguished companies such as [fictional example] Climatetech Solutions or Foodprint Analytics, aims to identify the 101 emerging companies with the greatest potential for growth and impact in Spain. The recognition does not involve the transfer of equity or financial conditions for the founders.
Requirements to Participate in the TOP 101 Spain Up Nation 2026
To qualify for the seal, the startup must have been established after January 1, 2020, meaning it must be a maximum of five years old. Additionally, it must be classified as an SME according to the European definition, have its registered office and tax domicile in Spain, and carry out most of its employment and activities within Spanish territory.
The company must be led by its founders, who work primarily in it. It cannot be publicly traded and its annual revenue since its inception must not exceed five million euros. Finally, it must demonstrate a high level of innovation — not necessarily technological — and economic, social, or environmental impact.
The concept of innovation is interpreted broadly. According to sources from ENISA, not only patentable technology is valued, but also disruptive business models, optimized processes, or services that solve real problems. Startups must also align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Benefits for Selected Startups: Seal, Training, and Networking
The 101 awarded companies will receive the TOP 101 Spain Up Nation Seal, a distinction that adds credibility in the eyes of investors and potential partners. Additionally, they will gain access to personalised training in Pitch Deck and growth programmes designed for early-stage startups.
The programme includes a networking agenda with B2B sessions and meetings to attract investment during the national gala days. This gala will be held in Logroño on November 18, 2026, where the startups will be publicly recognised. For the founders, these benefits translate into direct access to investors and connections that would normally take years of participation in events to build.
One of the most valued advantages by participants in previous editions is that the recognition does not require giving up equity or impose financial conditions. It is, according to the organisation, a merit-based recognition that provides visibility without capital cost for the founder.
Two-Phase Evaluation Process and Key Dates
The evaluation of applications will take place in two phases. In the first, a technical committee will analyse the submitted documentation and verify compliance with the requirements. In the second, a jury composed of experts from the entrepreneurial ecosystem will assess the growth potential, innovation, and impact of each startup.
The results will be communicated to the selected candidates prior to the gala on November 18. For startups in Cantabria, the regional development agency SODERCAN acts as a contact point and support in the application process. The organisation recommends preparing a report that highlights the innovative nature and impact of the project, beyond financial data.
For an entrepreneur, the process can be an opportunity to obtain external validation and open doors that would normally take years to build. The call is open until September 11, 2026, and the complete rules can be consulted on the Spain Up Nation website.
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