Mallorca over-50s can apply for free start-up help

On Mallorca, people aged 50 and over can apply for free help to develop a business idea, even if they do not have one yet. The University of the Balearic Islands (UIB) has joined the TaleS programme through UIBEmprèn, it announced from Palma on 8 October. People who turn 50 during 2026 can also apply, and no previous link to the university is needed.

Why taking the first step is hard

Experience does not always bring confidence about starting a business. In a study by the Fundación Mapfre’s Ageingnomics research centre, 49 per cent of 50- to 54-year-olds who had not started a business felt they had the necessary knowledge and skills. Among 55- to 64-year-olds, the figure was 43 per cent. Yet 54 per cent in both groups feared failure.

TaleS is now in its fifth edition and includes 12 Spanish universities. Ageingnomics runs it with the Santander International Entrepreneurship Centre.

Help from the first idea onwards

The programme offers training and mentoring to help people explore opportunities, understand potential customers and test whether a project could work. Participants can also meet other people interested in starting businesses. Places are limited, but joining is free.

Prizes worth more than 6,000 euros are available for standout ideas and projects. Winning teams from each university can present their work in a final round, with 2,000 euros for the best idea nationally and 1,000 euros for the runner-up.

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com