The Spanish Association of Defense, Security, Aeronautics and Space Technology Companies (Tedae) brought together 87 companies in Madrid for a business networking event. The fourth edition of the gathering facilitated more than 360 meetings and recorded participation 18 percent higher than the previous event.
The main issue discussed was the integration of small and medium-sized enterprises into projects led by the sector’s major companies. SMEs said they need earlier insight into the strategies, forecasts and capabilities that prime contractors will require in order to plan investments, expand their teams and take part in industrial programs.
Javier Chamorro, coordinator of Tedae’s SME Committee, called for stable business relationships, appropriate collaboration frameworks and simpler processes. He also cited access to financing, intellectual property management and the availability of qualified professionals as key needs—factors that affect companies’ ability to take on contracts and develop specialized technologies.
Financing, capital and contracts
Teresa Riesgo, secretary general for Innovation, said major companies must serve as drivers while SMEs and startups contribute new technologies. She identified three requirements for the latter to grow: funding for R&D, capital to expand and contracts that enable them to bring their solutions to market.
The working sessions included representatives from Indra, Navantia, GMV, BeOneSec, Airbus, GDELS-SBS, Sener and Sitep. Discussions focused on open innovation, business partnerships and strengthening supply chains.
Secretary of State for Industry Jordi García Brustenga said the Ministry of Industry is working on training measures, innovation instruments and industrial plans linked to special modernization programs. He also argued that prime contractors should hold their suppliers to high standards while providing them with support to develop their capabilities.
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