The Generalitat is committed to the competitiveness of trade
This year, it will allocate 9.1 million euros in aid to boost growth and innovation in the sector.
New economic boost for trade and crafts. The Department of Business and Employment has announced a new help line endowed with 9.1 million euros for 2025. This call is part of the Competitiveness, Growth and Innovation Plan 2024-2028, a strategic initiative that seeks to strengthen trade, crafts, and fashion in Catalonia.
Among the main new features, the subsidy plan, managed through the Consortium of Commerce, Crafts and Fashion (CCAM), incorporates a new program to support the digitalization of businesses, a specific line for opening new commercial establishments, and an aid program for small municipalities.
Digital transformation
This new program supports the incorporation of digital technologies in commercial establishments and market stalls. It includes initiatives such as website creation, the use of management systems (ERP, CRM), point-of-sale digitalization, and omnichannel strategy projects.
Support for municipal markets
The plan aims to support improvements in the management, revitalization, and infrastructure of sedentary and non-sedentary markets. Promotional activities, digital services, vendor training, and investments in accessibility, sustainability, and efficiency are included.
Support for small municipalities
With the aim of strengthening commerce in smaller municipalities and revitalizing rural areas, the plan includes a specific program aimed at municipalities with fewer than 10,000 inhabitants. Grants can reach €20,000 to finance the opening of new establishments, commercial promotion activities, or support for the association network. The plan also includes the promotion of local crafts, training, and sustainability.
For more information on grants and processing: https://ccam.gencat.cat
The Competitiveness, Growth, and Innovation Plan 2024-2028 is the strategic tool jointly promoted by the Directorate General of Commerce and the Consortium of Commerce, Crafts, and Fashion to address the current challenges facing these sectors.
The plan focuses on innovation, the digitalization, sustainability, training and territorial balance to strengthen the competitiveness of commercial, craft and fashion companies.
In the area of commerce, the Generalitat (Catalan Government) aims to update regulations to ensure a level playing field between operators and adapt them to changing consumer habits. Training programs will also be launched to ensure generational renewal and attract talent in the most sought-after profiles. Financing instruments are also being considered to strengthen business competitiveness, promote new business models, and integrate commerce into urban planning. At the same time, the aim is to boost digitalization and stimulate local economic activity.
Regarding crafts, efforts will be made to enhance the sector's prestige, promote its professionalization, and foster its international reach. Priority will be given to training, sustainability, and connection with other productive and creative sectors, as well as participation in leading international events.
In fashion, the plan focuses on consolidating 080 Barcelona Fashion as an international hub for the sector and strengthening collaboration between companies and institutions. It also aims to accelerate innovative projects, boost textile manufacturing in Catalonia, and promote trades linked to sustainability and the circular economy, among other things.
