Wayra Open Innovation Telefonica

Wayra Open Innovation Telefonica is the corporate venture capital arm and open innovation platform administered by the global telecommunications company Telefónica. The investment program accepts applications on a continuous rolling basis, offering equity investments ranging from €100,000 to €5 million for companies operating in strategic verticals such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing, fintech, and Web3. Operating through seven regional hubs across Europe and Latin America, the venture-client model provides portfolio companies with direct access to a network of over 380 million customers alongside specialized business development services like Traction Boost. The platform frequently collaborates with and invests alongside recognizable entities including Roche, AstraZeneca, the Inter-American Development Bank, and Perplexity AI. This resource is intended for early to growth-stage technology startups seeking capital, corporate partnerships, and global scaling opportunities through integration with established telecommunications infrastructure.

At a Glance

Wayra Open Innovation is Telefonica's global startup investment and innovation program, providing EUR 100,000 to EUR 5,000,000 to startups in AI, cybersecurity, cloud, fintech, and Web3. As the corporate venture arm of one of the world's largest telecommunications companies, Wayra offers startups not just capital but direct access to Telefonica's global customer base, technical infrastructure, and corporate partnership opportunities across Europe and Latin America.

Eligibility

Startups working in AI, cybersecurity, cloud computing, fintech, and Web3 technologies are eligible. Companies should have innovative products or services that are relevant to the telecommunications industry or Telefonica's strategic priorities. Both early-stage and growth-stage startups are considered. Wayra operates globally with hubs across Europe and Latin America, accepting startups from these regions and beyond.

What You Get

Investments range from EUR 100,000 to EUR 5,000,000 as equity. Beyond capital, Wayra provides access to Telefonica's 350+ million customers, technical infrastructure for piloting and scaling solutions, corporate mentorship from Telefonica executives, and potential commercial agreements. Startups can pilot their products within Telefonica's network, gaining real-world validation and revenue at scale. The program also provides co-working spaces and community at Wayra hubs.

How to Apply

Applications are submitted through the Wayra website. Startups present their technology, business model, team, and how their solution relates to telecommunications or Telefonica's strategic areas. Wayra's investment team evaluates applications on technology innovation, market potential, team quality, and strategic fit with Telefonica. Selected startups undergo a due diligence process before receiving investment. Wayra hosts events and demo days where startups can gain visibility.

Past Recipients

Wayra has invested in over 800 startups across its global portfolio, including cybersecurity companies protecting network infrastructure, AI firms optimizing telecommunications operations, fintech platforms leveraging mobile connectivity, and IoT startups building on cellular networks. Many portfolio companies have secured commercial agreements with Telefonica and other corporate partners, achieving significant revenue growth through the corporate partnership model.