Center for Industrial Technological Development (CDTI) Financing Guide

The Center for Industrial Technological Development (CDTI) is a key entity in Spain for financing research and development (R&D) and technological innovation projects in companies of all sizes. Through grants, loans, and specific aids, CDTI promotes innovation and competitiveness in strategic sectors. This guide explains how CDTI financing works, the programs available, and how to leverage its benefits for your projects.

1. What is CDTI?

The CDTI (Center for Industrial Technological Development) is a public entity under the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation. Its mission is to support and finance R&D and innovation projects, helping Spanish companies increase their competitiveness in the global market. CDTI offers various financing modalities, adapted to the needs of each development phase, from initial research to the industrialization of new products.

2. Types of CDTI Financing

CDTI has several financing programs for R&D projects, each tailored to different types of projects and development stages:

• Individual R&D Projects: Financing for research and development projects carried out by a single company, focused on creating innovative products, processes, or services.
• Cooperative R&D Projects: Projects developed in collaboration between companies or with research centers for joint innovation.
• International R&D Projects (CDTI-EraNet, CDTI-Eurostars, Pillar 2 Partnerships, Multi-country Projects):For companies collaborating on international research projects, promoting transnational innovation. Programs like Eureka, Eurostars, and Horizon Europe are examples of international collaboration supported by CDTI.
• Cervera Technology Transfer Projects: Finance technology transfer in collaboration with technological centers in strategic sectors.
• Aerospace and Health R&D Projects: Innovative projects in aerospace and health, two priority sectors for the Spanish economy.
• Science and Innovation Missions & PERTE Chip Missions: Financing for large-scale science and technology projects, including the semiconductor sector.
• Sustainable Automotive Technology Program (PTAS): Support for projects developing sustainable automotive technology.
• Aeronautical Technology Program (PTA): Financing focused on innovation in the aeronautics sector.
• Space Technology Program (PTE): Projects related to the space sector, financing cutting-edge technologies.
• Direct Innovation Line (CDTI LIC): For companies seeking to improve products, processes, or services without strictly focusing on R&D.
• Direct Expansion Line (CDTI LIC-A): Financing for productive expansion projects or relocation.

3. Financing Modalities

CDTI offers several financing modalities that vary by program and project type:

• Partially Reimbursable Loans: For lines like Individual R&D Projects, Cervera, and LIC, CDTI finances up to 85% of the project budget. The non-reimbursable portion usually ranges from 20% to 33% of the total aid. Amounts can reach up to €20 million, depending on project scope.
• Direct Grants: In programs such as Neotec, Cervera Projects, and SME Excellence Seal Aid, CDTI provides grants covering up to 70% of the budget for tech startups and highly specialized projects. Amounts typically range from €250,000 to €1 million, depending on the call.
• Reimbursable Advances: In programs like Innodemanda and International Projects, CDTI provides advances of up to 75% of the total budget. This allows financing initial development phases and facilitates project startup.
• Direct Innovation and Expansion Lines (LIC & LIC-A): Finance up to 75% of the project budget, with a limit of €10 million. Ideal for companies seeking to expand capacity or implement competitive improvements.

4. Benefits of CDTI Financing

Accessing CDTI financing provides important benefits for companies seeking to innovate:

• No collateral required: In many cases, CDTI loans do not require personal guarantees, making it easier for growing companies to access financing.
• Compatibility with other aids: CDTI programs can be combined with other aids and R&D tax deductions, allowing companies to leverage multiple financing sources.
• Favorable repayment conditions: Loan repayment is flexible and adapted to project development cycles, helping reduce the financial burden on the company.
• Access to international networks: Through international programs, companies can collaborate with strategic partners abroad, accessing international markets and global innovation networks.

5. Tips to Optimize Your Application

• Prepare a solid project report: A well-documented project with a clear justification of the innovation benefits increases approval chances.
• Consult a CDTI expert: Assistance from an advisor can be crucial to understanding specific requirements and maximizing application success.
• Plan the execution timeline: Since CDTI monitors project progress, establish milestones and a realistic schedule to meet planned phases and justify fund usage.

CDTI provides crucial financing for startups and SMEs looking to innovate and expand R&D projects in Spain and internationally. Leveraging CDTI programs can make a significant difference in competitiveness and growth, thanks to flexible financing conditions and support for advanced research. With proper preparation and the right backing, accessing this funding can be key to taking your project to the next level of success.

Are you interested in financing your R&D project with CDTI? At Kleo, we help you manage your financing application, optimizing each step so you can access the resources you need to grow your innovative project.