Archipélago Next strengthens its presence in Catalonia with the opening of a branch in Barcelona

Archipélago Next, the first venture capital management firm based in the Canary Islands, has strengthened its presence in Catalonia with the opening of a new branch in Barcelona, as part of its growth and territorial expansion strategy. With this move, the firm reinforces its footprint in one of the most active and dynamic regions in Spain in terms of innovation, entrepreneurship, and technological development.

Specifically, the company has chosen to locate its fully operational offices in the Aticco BFH coworking space on Passeig de Gràcia. The decision reflects the manager’s commitment to being close to entrepreneurial talent and the main players in the Catalan ecosystem—an environment that concentrates a significant share of Spain’s technological entrepreneurship.

“Barcelona is one of the main innovation hubs in Southern Europe and a meeting point for startups, funds, and institutions. Having a physical presence in the city will allow us to strengthen relationships with entrepreneurs, investors, and strategic partners, as well as identify investment opportunities from a closer and more active position,” says Miguel Quintanilla, Managing Partner of Archipélago Next.

With this step, the venture capital firm consolidates its national growth after recently reaching €36 million in assets under management and launching its Fund II, endowed with €20 million and backed by Fond-ICO Global.

Catalonia, a strategic region

The opening of the branch responds to an organic growth trend that had already been consolidating in Catalonia. With its first fund, Archipélago Next invested in 11 Catalan startups, and through Fund II it has already backed companies such as Tendios, Ealyx, and Oriane, whose team also operates partially from Barcelona.

These investments reflect the firm’s commitment to the local ecosystem and its intention to continue supporting projects with international potential. “We want to be a key partner for Catalan talent, providing capital, expertise, mentorship, and access to our network of investors and corporations,” adds Quintanilla.

The firm, which focuses mainly on B2B software, artificial intelligence, and digitalization, remains committed to supporting early-stage (pre-seed and seed) projects that offer innovative solutions to real-world problems.

With this new presence in Barcelona, Archipélago Next takes another step in its national expansion and strengthens its position as one of the most active venture capital players in Spain, combining regional vision, global outlook, and close support for entrepreneurial teams.

Pablo Santana leads the Barcelona office

The new stage in Barcelona is headed by Pablo Santana, Investment Analyst at Archipélago Next, who will lead the firm’s activity in Catalonia—one of the most vibrant regions in terms of innovation, entrepreneurship, and technological development.

Santana has an international academic background and a diverse professional trajectory combining experience in consulting, entrepreneurship, and investment analysis. He holds a degree in Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) from the University of Lancaster and a Master’s in International Business from Maastricht University, bringing an analytical and global perspective to the team.

Before joining the firm, he explored his entrepreneurial side by creating a fashion brand and collaborated with international relations research institutes, which helped him develop strong analytical and adaptability skills.

In his two years at the firm, he has been actively involved throughout the investment process—from operations and opportunity analysis to due diligence and relations with portfolio startups and other venture capital funds.

“I’m truly excited to be the face of Archipélago Next in Barcelona. Since my arrival, the reception has been fantastic, and I’ve had the chance to connect with a first-class professional network. I’ve experienced incredible warmth in the ecosystem, with great openness to collaboration from local and international funds, entrepreneurial communities, universities, and public institutions. This experience confirms that Barcelona is, without a doubt, a vibrant and collaborative hub, and I’m convinced we’ll find outstanding projects to support in their growth,” says Santana.

About Archipélago Next

Archipélago Next is the first venture capital management firm born in the Canary Islands. With over €36 million in assets under management, it supports early-stage Spanish startups, investing primarily in B2B software projects focused on digitalization and artificial intelligence. Its mission is to back talented teams with international ambition, providing capital, experience, and access to a network of corporate leaders to accelerate their growth.

For more information: https://archipelagonext.vc/