The Minister for Health, Care and Business, the Hon Gemma Arias-Vasquez, yesterday hosted a showcase event at the Peter J. Isola Start-Up Hub at Europort. The event provided key partners and supporters from Gibraltar’s business community with a first look at the fully fitted space.

About the Hub

First announced earlier this year, the hub fulfills a Government manifesto commitment to provide an accessible workspace and practical support for new founders. Located at Suite 842, Europort, the hub offers shared workspace for entrepreneurs developing early-stage ideas.

Key Support & Partnerships:

• Funding: The rental cost is generously funded by the Peter J. Isola Foundation.

• Internet: Provided by U-mee.

• Security: Donated by Focus Security and El Martillo.

Following this showcase, the Department of Business will review interest levels to determine the viability of taking the initiative forward.

Stakeholder Statements

John Isola, President of the Gibraltar Chamber of Commerce: "The Chamber supports this initiative as encouraging start-ups is a key driver of future economic growth. This is a welcome programme that helps new businesses cross the critical threshold from idea to launch."

Daniel Delgado, Vice-Chairperson of the GFSB: "It is exactly the kind of practical support we like to see... It is particularly valuable for younger entrepreneurs."

Sean Michael Federico, Young Enterprise Gibraltar: "For Young Enterprise participants, this provides an ideal space to consider taking their ideas forward... This initiative fills that gap."

A Message from the Minister

The Hon Gemma Arias-Vasquez commented:

"Yesterday’s showcase is an opportunity to provide a visual representation of what we are offering: a practical and supportive space for people with start-up business ideas who simply need the right environment to take their first steps.

We are mindful that there are already businesses offering these co-working spaces and therefore, the hub will be limited to a maximum of 4 start-ups and a competitive pricing structure that requires them to cover service charges, rates and utilities between them."

How to Apply

Further information, including how to express interest in participating, is available via:

• Website: oft.gov.gi/start-up-hub

• Email: startuphub@gibraltar.gov.gi

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