Benefits of Data Spaces for Local Businesses: Competitiveness, Innovation and New Opportunities
The Smart Data Space Innovation Center has been created as a collaborative environment where businesses, institutions and citizens can share and harness data in a secure, ethical and sustainable manner. More than just a technological initiative, its mission is to drive the local and regional economy by fostering innovation and opening up new avenues of growth across all productive sectors.
For companies in Zamora, the Smart Data Space offers a unique, cost-free opportunity. SMEs and self-employed professionals in the province will gain access to an ecosystem where data becomes a strategic resource for competitiveness. This means improved decision-making through more accurate and shared information, the development of new business models — from smart tourism to precision agriculture — greater efficiency and cost savings through digitalised processes, and direct links to Europe via the data space network, creating access to international projects and EU funding.
A key pillar of the project is ensuring that local businesses are at the forefront of digital transformation. Through training, guidance and opportunities to take part in pilot projects, SMEs, cooperatives and entrepreneurs will be able to capitalise first-hand on the advantages of data spaces — accelerating existing initiatives and enabling the creation of new, innovative solutions. This will help build an ecosystem that encourages innovation, where ideas can be transformed into viable technological solutions that are both market-ready and accessible.
In doing so, Zamora is consolidating its position as a hub for artificial intelligence and the data economy, with the potential to generate significant economic, scientific and social impact.
A Driving Force for Transforming Castilla y León
The Smart Data Space will extend its benefits far beyond Zamora, reaching across the entire autonomous community. Castilla y León will gain a benchmark for decentralised digital innovation, capable of attracting talent, investment and European projects. At the same time, it will promote sustainability by encouraging the responsible use of data in key areas such as energy, mobility and agri-food, positioning the region as more competitive, innovative and connected. The future of innovation and business competitiveness in Castilla y León increasingly points to Zamora as its driving force.