CHALLENGE CANADA SPRING 2026

Immersion and support program for Spanish startups in artificial intelligence and quantum technologies interested in scaling their business model internationally.

ICEX Spain Export and Investment, Red.es, and the Spanish Economic and Commercial Office (OFECOMES) in Ottawa are launching the third edition of DESAFÍA CANADÁ. This two-week immersion program is for Spanish startups and scaleups with high-value software or hardware solutions based on artificial intelligence and quantum technologies, currently in the commercialization phase and with international experience. It focuses on developing business opportunities, market knowledge, and strategic networking, facilitating the integration of Spanish companies into the Canadian technology ecosystem, with a focus on the cities of Montreal and Toronto.

Participation in this third edition of the immersion program, alongside leading business, scientific, and institutional players in North America, will allow Spanish companies to scale their business models and establish global connections related to artificial intelligence and quantum technologies applied to various sectors, both industrial and digital, where these technologies have become a key cross-cutting element.

Sectors:

• Health and Medical Technology
• Transportation and Logistics
• Energy and Environment
• Advanced Manufacturing
• Cybersecurity
• Aerospace and Defense

This immersion program aims to achieve several objectives:

• To introduce entrepreneurs to the Canadian ecosystem in order to acquire the experience and knowledge necessary to scale their business model with a greater guarantee of success, and, on the other hand, to facilitate the entry of startups into the Canadian and North American markets.
• Expand your knowledge of the artificial intelligence and quantum sector in Canada and network with key players in the ecosystem (startups, corporations, investors, accelerators, research centers, etc.) to gain the experience and strategic network needed to enter the North American market and scale your business.
• Learn about the opportunities Canada offers as a hub for deep-tech technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, and as a gateway to the North American market.
• Identify the main barriers and challenges Spanish technology companies face in accessing and growing in this market, such as building a strong network, securing funding, and understanding how the applied AI research system works.

Places are limited and registration is free.

The registration deadline is March 9, 2026, at 5:00 PM (UTC).

More information.