Canary Islands Government Approves 'Zero Quota' Subsidies for Self-Employed in 2025

Overview

The Canary Islands government has approved over €388,000 in 'zero quota' subsidies aimed at helping self-employed workers establish or expand their activities in 2025. This initiative, managed through a non-competitive process, targets small business owners and freelancers across the region.

The subsidies are part of a broader effort to boost local entrepreneurship and ease economic burdens for independent workers affected by recent economic challenges.

Details of the Program

• A public call was issued in May 2025.
• The \textit{Instituto Tecnológico de Canarias} (ITC) was tasked with distributing the funds to approved beneficiaries.
• Out of hundreds of applicants, 415 individuals received grants.
• Each grant was confirmed as eligible after thorough oversight by the ITC.

Eligibility and Compliance

• Recipients must maintain documentation for at least four years.
• Recipients must comply with transparency laws.
• Some applications were rejected due to non-compliance.
• Others were withdrawn at the applicants’ request.

"The government emphasizes strict oversight to prevent misuse of funds."

Funding and Regulations

• Funds are financed through regional budget lines dedicated to supporting new entrepreneurial ventures.
• The grants are part of a broader EU-regulated scheme.
• The scheme includes strict rules that limit aid amounts, ensuring transparency and fair distribution.

Goals and Impact

• The support aims to stimulate small-scale entrepreneurship.
• It seeks to create jobs and economic activity in the Canary Islands.
• This initiative is especially crucial given the ongoing economic recovery period.