Madrid has become a hub for the audiovisual sector, attracting talent, investment, and opportunities for companies aiming to expand into international markets. If you’re looking to internationalize your audiovisual company from the capital, this guide will provide you with strategies, resources, and success stories to inspire you.

Why internationalize an audiovisual company in Madrid?

Internationalizing your business from Madrid means leveraging its strategic position as a gateway to Europe and Latin America, as well as its specialized resources in the audiovisual sector.

Advantages of operating from an international hub like Madrid

Madrid offers a dynamic environment that combines advanced infrastructure, a growing creative ecosystem, and excellent global connectivity. The city provides:

• Access to international talent, thanks to its reputation as a cultural and educational center.
• Global distribution platforms with a presence in Spain, such as Netflix and Amazon Studios.
• Collaboration and networking opportunities, supported by institutions such as the Madrid Audiovisual Cluster, which connects companies with international partners.

Additionally, Madrid serves as a natural bridge for companies seeking to expand into Spanish-speaking markets, especially in Latin America.

Benefits of entering new markets

Expanding into international markets allows you to:

• Diversify your revenue streams, reducing reliance on the local market.
• Increase the visibility of your productions by reaching broader audiences.
• Take advantage of tax and financial incentives in other countries that promote audiovisual development.
• Collaborate with international professionals, raising the overall quality of your productions.

Strategies to internationalize your audiovisual company

To succeed in global markets, it’s essential to implement strategies that expand your network, secure financing, and strengthen the quality of your projects.

Participation in international fairs and events

Events such as the European Film Market, the Cannes Film Festival, or the American Film Market are key platforms to showcase your work and connect with distributors, investors, and other industry players. Madrid also hosts events such as Ventana Madrid, designed specifically to connect local companies with international markets.

Key benefits of participating in audiovisual industry fairs include:

• Negotiating distribution deals.
• Identifying market trends.
• Meeting potential co-production partners.
• Gaining visibility for projects in development.

Strategic alliances and co-productions

International co-productions are an effective way to access funding, technical resources, and global distribution. Building strategic partnerships with foreign production companies helps share risks and ensures entry into specific markets.

In Madrid, initiatives such as those of the Madrid Audiovisual Cluster facilitate these collaborations by connecting local companies with international partners. Additionally, participation in international networks such as Eurimages can open doors to new funding opportunities.

Resources and support available in Madrid for internationalization

Madrid offers a wide range of resources to support audiovisual companies in their internationalization process.

Madrid Audiovisual Cluster: services and opportunities

The Madrid Audiovisual Cluster is a platform that brings together companies, professionals, and institutions in the sector. Its main services include:

• Personalized consulting for projects seeking international expansion.
• Organization of business meetings and trade missions in key markets.
• Access to specialized training, such as workshops on international legislation or global market trends.
• Promotion at international events, facilitating the participation of Madrid-based production companies in festivals and film markets.

This cluster has been key to the success of companies such as Begin Again Films and Secuoya Content Group, which have positioned themselves in international markets thanks to the connections and resources provided. Follow their path and join the Madrid Audiovisual Cluster!

Public aid programs and subsidies

The Community of Madrid and the Government of Spain have developed financial support programs for audiovisual companies aiming to internationalize. Among the most important:

• Support for the international distribution of Spanish films: Funded by the European Union’s Next Generation funds, these grants are aimed at independent international sales agencies that wish to market Spanish films abroad. Eligible expenses include international promotion, advertising, rights acquisition, and booth rentals at international markets.
• Maximum amount: Up to €100,000 per film, covering a maximum of 50% of eligible expenses.
• Objective: To incentivize the distribution, sales, and international promotion of Spanish films, boosting their global reach.

Additionally, companies can apply for subsidies from the ICAA and European programs such as Creative Europe MEDIA, which finance transnational distribution and co-production activities. Being based in Madrid makes it easier to access these resources, maximizing the chances of success in global markets.

Success stories of audiovisual companies internationalized from Madrid

The success of many Madrid-based companies in international markets demonstrates the city’s potential as a hub for the audiovisual sector.

Companies that succeeded in global markets

Here are some of the most notable examples:

• Begin Again Films: This production company has participated in prestigious international festivals such as the Venice Film Festival, thanks to its focus on high-quality projects and its network of contacts facilitated by the Madrid Audiovisual Cluster. Its commitment to co-productions with European and Latin American countries has been key to its expansion.
• Secuoya Content Group: Present in more than 10 countries, this company has developed content for major platforms such as Netflix and HBO. Its strategy is based on international partnerships and the use of resources offered by the Madrid Audiovisual Cluster to enter global markets.

Key factors behind their success

So, how do you achieve international success in the audiovisual industry? These were the decisive factors for the production companies highlighted:

• Innovation and quality: Both companies have focused on original productions that stand out in competitive markets.
• Strong networks: Participation in international events and support from the Madrid Audiovisual Cluster were crucial.
• Market diversification: Expanding into Europe, Latin America, and the United States allowed these companies to maximize business opportunities.
• Use of public aid: National and international grants were fundamental in financing their projects.

Without a doubt, Madrid is an ideal starting point for the internationalization of production companies. The city offers a favorable environment for growth and innovation. If your goal is to reach global markets, Madrid provides the tools you need to succeed.