Deep-Tech Startups Gear Up for Growth at atTRACTION Bootcamp in Málaga

Deep-Tech Startups Gear Up for Growth at atTRACTION Bootcamp in Málaga

On March 13–14, 2025, the city of Málaga hosted an intensive international bootcamp designed to help deep-tech entrepreneurs take a critical step forward in their business journey: securing their first customers. The event, held within the framework of the Transfiere Forum – Spain’s leading forum on science, technology and innovation – was organized under the European atTRACTION project, co-funded by the Horizon Europe Program.

Developed collaboratively by Startup Migrants, Málaga TechPark, TechPark Kaunas and Poznan Science and Technology Park, the bootcamp brought together seven innovative startups for a two-day experience focused on customer development, market validation, and strategic communication.

 

A Two-Day Format Built Around Practical Learning

The first day began with institutional welcome remarks delivered by Sonia Palomo, Director of Technology Transfer and International Relations at Málaga TechPark and Enrique Nava, Vice-Rector for Mobility and International Projects at the University of Málaga.

After the introduction, participants were guided through the objectives and working dynamics of the programme before attending a session where international experts shared best practices and real-world insights on early sales strategies. Joaquim Nascimento, founder of Vanguard Strategy (Portugal), and Emmanuel Mutsiya, from the Kenya Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, provided participants with concrete advice on how to approach potential customers and close first deals.

The day continued with an engaging networking activity where mentors and entrepreneurs met through a fast-paced, structured format. Each mentor briefly presented their background and areas of expertise, followed by a series of face-to-face exchanges. This interaction allowed startups to identify relevant contacts and begin receiving targeted feedback from the outset.

The second day of the bootcamp focused on communication and presentation skills. Startups rotated through the different mentors, where they delivered a two-minute elevator pitch and received individualized feedback. The mentoring team included professionals with experience in technology transfer, business development and innovation ecosystems, representing institutions such as the University of Algarve, HST and Algarve Evolution (Portugal), the State University of Moldova and the University of Málaga. Their guidance throughout the program was instrumental in helping participants sharpen their value proposition and refine their customer engagement strategies.

After a joint session to integrate the feedback and improve the content and delivery of their pitches, participants had the opportunity to professionally record their final presentations providing each startup with a high-quality asset to use in future investor or client interactions.

Seven Startups, One Shared Goal: First Customers

The selected startups represented a diverse mix of technologies and sectors:

Each team came away with an improved understanding of their market positioning, strengthened pitching skills, and access to a supportive international network of mentors and peers.

What’s Next?

The Málaga Bootcamp reaffirmed the value of practical, hands-on support for early-stage deep-tech entrepreneurs. By combining high-quality mentoring, tailored training, and exposure to international innovation environments, the atTRACTION project continues to foster real progress in the startup journey.

The next edition of the First Customer Accelerator and Bootcamp program will take place in Kaunas, Lithuania, in April and May 2025. Startups interested in taking part in this transformative experience can now apply to join the program, which includes five online preparatory sessions and an in-person bootcamp with full support for travel and participation costs.

Don’t miss your opportunity to gain first customers, grow your network, and accelerate your business. Apply now and join the atTRACTION journey.

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