A total of 13 companies from Gran Canaria have begun consulting services to apply for funding from the CIDE Network (Centers for Innovation and Business Development), promoted by the Canary Islands Agency for Research, Innovation and the Information Society (ACIISI). This network aims to bring innovation to Canarian companies, especially SMEs, by helping them improve their competitiveness through free, personalized advice. The CIDE centers assist companies in identifying opportunities, seeking financing, developing innovative projects, and improving processes, products, or services.
The CIDE Network, an initiative managed by ACIISI and 85% funded by the European Regional Development Fund, promotes female participation in innovation and digital transformation, providing support for project creation and technology transfer as part of the 2021-2027 Canary Islands ERDF Operational Program.
During the day, the available grants for the development of innovation projects in priority areas of the expanded RIS3 were discussed in depth, with the participation of a consulting firm specializing in the presentation of successful applications. The session provided an opportunity to clarify doubts, share real-life experiences, and offer practical tools so that more companies can benefit from these grants.
Since 2021, the CIDE Network has supported 1.309 companies in the Canary Islands and advised 1.168 projects related to innovation and technology, securing €12.3 million in funding. This program, 85% co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), seeks to boost business competitiveness and foster sustainable development in the archipelago.
Women lead 25% of the outstanding projects advised by the Canary Islands Network of Business Innovation and Development Centers (CIDE), supporting 1.155 female entrepreneurs in the last four years, according to the Ministry of Universities, Science, Innovation, and Culture. The success stories are available on the CIDE Network website. (https://www.redcide.es/casos-de-exito), reflect the commitment to equality in the field of R&D&I, highlighting the leadership, creativity, and teamwork of female entrepreneurs. Although gender gaps persist, 35% of employed women in Spain already work in science and technology, surpassing the 28,4% of men in this field.
