New project enhances public services for German and Spanish entrepreneurs 

On 26th September, Madrid hosted the kick-off meeting for a new project “Supporting Regional Entrepreneurship Through the Adoption of Innovative Technologies, Including AI, in Public Services” aimed at strengthening public service support systems for regional entrepreneurship ecosystems in Germany and Spain. 

Discussions during the meeting highlighted the importance of innovative technologies in public services, with participants addressing key challenges and opportunities in both countries. 

“At eGA, we believe that digitalising public services isn’t just a trend—it’s essential for businesses to grow and succeed. By simplifying administrative processes and improving service delivery, we’re reducing barriers and giving businesses the tools they need to thrive,” said project lead Piret Hirv. 

“It is important to support regional authorities in adopting smarter, more efficient services so they can fuel entrepreneurship and boost economic growth.” 

A key outcome of the project will be the development of a roadmap to assist German and Spanish authorities in implementing innovative technological solutions, supported by training programs and stakeholder engagement activities. 

The project marks the first initiative implemented by the e-Governance Academy (eGA) funded by the Directorate-General for Structural Reform Support (DG REFORM), which is part of the European Commission. DG REFORM provides technical assistance to EU member states for the implementation of structural reforms. The project is set to conclude in May 2026.

“As our project is aimed at helping local businesses gain time and access to better services and financing, eGA is really proud to implement, for the first time, the DG REFORM funded project,” said Ingrid Toonekurg, Member of the Management Board of eGA. 

German authorities are represented by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action. In Spain, the authorities include the Department of Industry and Ecological Transition and Business Digitalisation of the Government of Navarra; the Ministry of Economy, Employment, and Digital Transformation of the Government of Extremadura; the Ministry of University, Research, and Innovation of the Regional Government of Andalusia; and the Directorate-General for Self-Employed Individuals and Entrepreneurship under the Ministry of Economy of the Regional Government of Madrid.  

With strong commitment and collaboration from all involved, this initiative is set to create a sustainable framework for public service innovation that will benefit entrepreneurs across Germany and Spain.