Madrid’s City Council has recognised the contribution of foreign companies and professionals that, with their activity, promote socio-economic development in the capital. The event was chaired by the Mayor of Madrid, José Luis Martínez-Almeida, together with Madrid’s Councillor for the Economy, Innovation and Finance, Engracia Hidalgo, and the Councillor for Moncloa-Aravaca, Borja Fanjul. The awards ceremony  was held at the offices of Warner Music Spain, symbol of Madrid’s status as a major hub for international musical innovation, and was attended by the presidents of Warner Music Iberia and the CEOE-Madrid Business Confederation (CEIM), chaired by Miguel Garrido.

Madrid is leading foreign investment in Spain

Madrid is leading foreign direct investment (FDI) in Spain, engaging 67.5% of the national total in the first half of 2024, with more than 7,940 million euros and nearly 7,500 jobs generated. In addition, it is positioned as the second European destination and sixth globally for greenfield projects, with more than 234 new projects in 2023, reinforcing its appeal vis-à-vis cities such as London, Singapore and Dubai.

During the event, the Mayor stressed that the city’s international prominent is the result of the “unique mix” that Madrid offers: Economic opportunities, a safe environment, first class infrastructures and exceptional quality of life.”

Awards for talent and innovation

The event recognised 10 multinationals and 6 foreign executives from 14 countries, from key sectors such as technology, cybersecurity, pharmaceuticals, logistics and culture.

Award winning companies

1. ALK-Abelló, Inc. (Denmark): Leader in immunotherapy and allergy research, with a global logistics hub that employs 400 people in Madrid.
2. Amazon (USA): Its Tech Hub in Madrid, the largest in Europe, supports more than 3,000 local SMEs and employs 3,000 people.
3. Celonis (Germany): Technological innovation centre, with an investment of 100 million euros and 500 jobs created.
4. Four Seasons Hotel Madrid (Canada): Emblematic hotel that revitalised the Canalejas complex, with almost 500 employees.
5. GLS (United Kingdom): Investment of 89 million euros in its green energy hub for southern Europe.
6. Iveco (Italy): Innovation in the automotive sector through its Madrid factory, which employs 2,700 people.
7. Roche Farma España (Switzerland): Biotechnology leader that employs 1,500 people in the capital.
8. Steelcase (USA): It has invested 230 million euros in projects such as the Cuatro Torres Business Area.
9. Veolia (France): Leader in environmental services and ecological transformation, with 1,500 employees.
10. Warner Music Spain (USA): Drives music innovation through its creative hub The Music Station.

Award-winning professionals:

1. Robert Assink (Netherlands): Leader of the Madrid Digital Hub with Digital Realty.
2. Yiannis Exarchos (Greece): Strengthens Madrid’s position as the world capital of sport through OBS.
3. Mildred Laya (Venezuela): Promoter of STEM careers for women in Salesforce.
4. Eduvigis Ortiz (Dominican Republic): Leader in cybersecurity and mentor at Women4Cyber.
5. Hélène Valenzuela (France): Promoter of railway liberalisation in Spain from Ouigo.
6. Mercedes Wullich (Argentina): Promoter of social and impact projects with ‘Top 100 Women Leaders’.

The Virtual International Investment Window

The event also highlighted the tools that Madrid offers to facilitate the arrival and consolidation of foreign companies. In particular, the Virtual International Investment Window, developed by MIA, provides personalised advice, strategic information and direct access to key agencies.

With this platform, Madrid City Council reinforces its commitment to the internationalisation of Madrid’s economy and public-private collaboration, key to maintaining Madrid as a preferred destination for talent and global investment.

Madrid continues to shore up its status as an epicentre of innovation and opportunity, ready to continue attracting the best talent and international investment.