Telefonica

Telefonica, a global telecommunications conglomerate headquartered in Madrid, Spain, is a significant player in the startup ecosystem primarily through its corporate venture arm, Wayra. Launched in 2011, Wayra functions as Telefonica's open innovation hub, strategically investing in and supporting early-stage technology companies that align with the group's core business and future growth areas. This initiative is not merely a financial vehicle but a strategic tool designed to foster innovation, explore emerging technologies, and integrate cutting-edge solutions into Telefonica's vast service portfolio, which serves over 380 million customers worldwide.

Wayra's investment model is characterized by providing "smart money," offering not only capital but also invaluable access to Telefonica's extensive network, technological infrastructure, and a broad customer base. The hub focuses on startups developing solutions in areas critical to Telefonica's evolution, including artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), cybersecurity, cloud computing, fintech, and advanced connectivity. This targeted approach ensures that investments contribute directly to Telefonica's strategic objectives and enhance its competitive position in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Typically, Wayra invests in seed or pre-seed stage companies, with initial cheque sizes generally ranging from €100,000 to €250,000 for a minority equity stake, often around 5-10%. Since its inception, Wayra has demonstrated a robust track record, having invested in over 1,000 startups across various geographies, including Spain, the UK, Germany, and multiple Latin American countries. These portfolio companies have collectively gone on to raise substantial follow-on funding, exceeding €2.5 billion, underscoring the catalytic impact of Wayra's initial support and the strategic partnership opportunities with Telefonica.