The Costa Blanca, particularly the Marina Alta and Marina Baixa regions, has developed into an interesting location for start-ups and self-employed people. In addition to the high quality of life and pleasant climate, these regions increasingly offer opportunities for innovative business models. Cities such as Denia, Altea and Benidorm are characterised by a dynamic economy that supports both traditional industries and modern, digital companies.
Innovative start-up environment and support
In the Marina Alta in particular, there are programmes that specifically promote the self-employed in order to improve services in smaller communities. The Itinerant initiative, part of the Valencian Community's anti-depopulation strategy, is actively looking for service providers such as craftsmen, physiotherapists and other professionals to support rural areas. This offers an opportunity for start-ups to set up in less developed but still attractive areas and at the same time close an important supply gap.
The cities in Marina Baixa, such as Benidorm and Altea, are also increasingly attracting digital nomads who benefit from the modern coworking spaces and good infrastructure. These workspaces are particularly popular with freelancers and start-ups who are not reliant on permanent offices.
Figures and current developments
There are currently around 3.3 million self-employed people in Spain, and the number of self-employed people in the Valencia region remains stable. On the Costa Blanca, many of them work in the tourism, services and crafts sectors. Programmes such as the aforementioned initiatives to revitalise rural areas are helping to create new business opportunities for the self-employed.
Important requirements
The conditions for setting up a company on the Costa Blanca are similar to those in the rest of Spain:
- N.I.E. (Número de Identificación de Extranjeros)This identification number is required for all legal and business activities. It can be requested from the local police authority.
- Business licenceBefore starting an economic activity, a business licence must be obtained from the local town hall. This will check whether all the necessary requirements have been met.
- Registration with the tax office and social securitySelf-employed persons must register with the tax office and submit quarterly tax returns. In addition, registration with social security is mandatory. There are often reduced contributions for new entrepreneurs in the first few years.
Different company forms
Founders can choose between several company forms, including
- AutónomoThe simplest form for freelancers without minimum capital, but with unlimited personal liability.
- Comunidad de Bienes (CB)A form of partnership for at least two partners without a prescribed starting capital, but also without limited liability.
- Sociedad Limitada (SL)The most popular option for growing companies, as liability is limited to the share capital of at least 3,000 euros.
Challenges and hurdles
Although the bureaucratic requirements in Spain are moderate, there are some hurdles that prospective entrepreneurs should consider:
- Language barriersKnowledge of Spanish or even Valencian is often necessary, as many bureaucratic procedures are carried out in these languages. The support of a local consultant is therefore recommended.
- Different costs of livingWhile rents for commercial property are high in tourist hotspots such as Benidorm, smaller towns in the Marina Alta offer more affordable options. However, if you want to be successful in the well-frequented coastal towns, you have to reckon with higher fixed costs.
- Industry-specific requirements: Additional licences and certificates may be required, particularly in the catering and craft sectors, which must be applied for in advance.
The Costa Blanca, especially the Marina Alta and Marina Baixa regions, offers a promising environment for start-ups and the self-employed. With targeted funding programmes and a broad network of support options, nothing stands in the way of a successful start to self-employment. However, it is advisable to be well prepared and to know the local particularities in order to make the most of the region's opportunities.