As part of the 2025 edition of South Summit Madrid, 100 finalist startups from 23 countries, selected from more than 4,500 applicants worldwide, faced each other in a competition to define the best idea, business model, and pitch. The competition highlighted the maturity of the participating startups—nearly 50% had already reached revenue-generating stages, and over 30% were in advanced growth and traction phases.
The grand winner of the competition was Spanish deep tech company Lain Tech, founded by Eva María Laín, a biotechnology PhD from the University of Cambridge. The startup developed E-LIX, a patented hydrometallurgical process capable of extracting critical metals such as copper, zinc, cobalt, and nickel using only electric energy—eliminating the use of water or chemicals. This innovation significantly reduces the environmental footprint of mining and processing.
Several other startups also earned special recognition. Barcelona-based Neural Trust was awarded “Most Scalable” for its cybersecurity solutions for virtual assistants. Remuner, also from Catalonia, won “Best Team” for its AI-powered platform for managing employee bonuses and commissions. US startup Bankuish took home the “Most Disruptive” prize by enabling freelancers to access better credit conditions. Chilean firm Hera Materials was crowned “Most Sustainable” thanks to its development of plastic-free alternative materials.
Bottom line
Spanish King Felipe VI opened the event with remarks focused on the ethical challenges of artificial intelligence, calling for a responsible and fearless approach to innovation. María Benjumea, founder of South Summit, emphasized the growing international reach of the platform and confirmed upcoming editions in Porto Alegre (Brazil) and South Korea—further solidifying the event’s role as a global connector of innovation ecosystems.
With more than 600 speakers, 150 investors, and 19 unicorns attending, South Summit Madrid 2025 strengthened the city’s standing as a European innovation hub. The event provided startups with exposure, capital access, and strategic partnerships.
