This increase, which surpasses the initial forecast of 790,000 euros by 296,144 euros, is made possible by the 2026 budget agreement signed with EH Bildu.
The Councilor for Economic Promotion, Employment, Commerce, and Tourism, María Nanclares, and the spokesperson for the municipal group EH Bildu, Rocío Vitero, presented the initiative at a press conference.
According to Nanclares, "this operation allows us to respond to the growing demand from entrepreneurs to develop their business ideas in our city and, at the same time, utilize available premises". She added that "we are promoting the digital transformation of SMEs in commerce, hospitality, and services in Vitoria-Gasteiz, thereby fostering improved competitiveness for these businesses and boosting economic activity and employment in our city."
Vitero stated that "the commercial sector of Gasteiz seeks support, and when public institutions extend a hand, this sector advances". "The demand has been so high that we have had to allocate more funds to the aid lines," she affirmed. EH Bildu "advocates for a City Council that supports the economic sector, acts as an ally in opening businesses, and promotes their modernization and transformation to prevent closures and maintain a solid, rooted commercial fabric."
Regarding aid for the revitalization of available commercial premises, this call, initially budgeted at 300,000 euros, will be increased to 365,000 euros. These grants cover 50% of the first year's rent expenses, up to a maximum of 500 euros per month. Since their launch, 167 new businesses have opened in the city.
To access these subsidies, certain requirements must be met, such as the subsidized activity being located in a street-level premises in Vitoria-Gasteiz, the company's workforce being fewer than 50 people, and its annual balance not exceeding 10 million euros.
Beneficiaries include not only shops and restaurants but also travel agencies, telecommunications businesses, financial institutions, insurance companies, and professional and artistic activities, among others. Establishments within public markets are also included.
To apply for the subsidy, the beneficiary must have formalized a lease agreement that entered into force between August 1, 2025, and July 31, 2026. This year, for the first time, entrepreneurs will receive 100% of the aid in advance upon concession resolution.
Furthermore, aid for the implementation, modernization, and digital transformation of small commerce, personal services, and hospitality businesses, initially funded with 490,000 euros, will increase by 231,144 euros, reaching a total of 721,144 euros.
Through these grants, companies with fewer than 50 employees can subsidize the purchase of computer equipment, management tools, software, website development, or digital marketing strategies. The City Council will finance between 25% and 40% of the investment, depending on the project's score, with a maximum of 20,000 euros per company.
