The capital of Extremadura was the stage for an intense second day of the Public Digitalization Program (PDP), which continues to explore key innovation and governance hubs across Spain. The delegation of 36 high-level public officials from Northern Romania participated in the renowned Avante Venture event, a flagship gathering of entrepreneurs, investors, and innovation stakeholders in the region.
Organized by Extremadura Avante, this high-impact forum brought together hundreds of entrepreneurs, funding entities, consulting firms, and investors at the Mérida Congress Palace. The Romanian participants were immersed in the dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem of Extremadura, engaging directly with showcases of cutting-edge regional projects and networking with public and private sector representatives.
Throughout the morning, attendees visited several financed projects and innovative business initiatives that reflect the ongoing transformation of the region. They also explored various funding schemes and collaborative models that support entrepreneurship, technological modernization, and rural development in Extremadura.
The highlight of the day was the keynote speech by Maribel Rodríguez Olmo, Director of Green Energies at Repsol. Her inspiring address focused on leadership, financing capacities, and the strategic role of sustainability in regional development. Rodríguez emphasized the need for strong partnerships, forward-looking vision, and territorial commitment to turn local challenges into long-term opportunities.
The event also featured remarks by Javier Morcillo, Secretary General for R&D of the Regional Government of Extremadura, and Miguel Ángel Mendiano, General Director of Extremadura Avante, who both underlined the importance of fostering international knowledge exchange and investment partnerships.
To conclude the day, the Romanian delegation enjoyed a surprise cultural visit to the Roman Amphitheater and Theater of Mérida, iconic landmarks that reflect the region’s rich historical legacy. The day ended with a guided tour of the Helga de Alvear Museum of Contemporary Art in Cáceres, offering a powerful contrast between heritage and avant-garde creativity — a fitting finale to a day dedicated to innovation, dialogue, and discovery.
With this second day, the PDP 2025 continues to deliver a dynamic and experiential learning journey, building meaningful bridges between European public administrations and the transformative forces of regional innovation.
