Wayra

Wayra functions as Telefónica's strategic Corporate Venture Capital arm and Open Innovation hub, providing both direct investment capital and comprehensive innovation services to external organizations. Established over 15 years ago, Wayra has deployed €233M across more than 1,100 startup investments, maintaining an active portfolio exceeding 530 companies. The organization's dual approach combines traditional venture investing with innovation consulting, enabling third-party corporations to accelerate and enhance their own open innovation initiatives through Wayra's established methodologies and extensive network.

With a distinctly global footprint, Wayra maintains seven primary innovation hubs strategically positioned across Europe and Latin America. European operations include centers in Madrid, Barcelona, London, and Germany, while Latin American presence spans Brazil, Argentina, and Colombia, with operational teams across nine countries total. Beyond these core locations, Wayra's investment reach extends to technology epicenters through dedicated funds targeting Silicon Valley and Israel's vibrant startup ecosystems, ensuring access to cutting-edge innovation worldwide.

The venture arm demonstrates particular strength in facilitating corporate-startup collaboration, with approximately 190 portfolio companies actively engaged in business relationships with parent company Telefónica. This practical integration of portfolio companies into Telefónica's operations showcases Wayra's effectiveness at bridging the gap between corporate infrastructure and startup innovation. Beyond its internal network, Wayra has cultivated relationships with over 140 external partners and clients, creating a robust ecosystem that amplifies investment value through commercial opportunities, technical collaboration, and market access.

Wayra has further expanded its innovation capabilities through the development of two specialized platforms - Alaian and Open Future - which extend innovation services to third parties. These platforms represent Wayra's evolution from traditional corporate venture capital into a comprehensive innovation partner capable of supporting various engagement models. While Wayra typically focuses on early and growth-stage technology companies with strategic relevance to telecommunications, digital services, and adjacent sectors, its investment approach balances financial returns with strategic value creation through meaningful connections to Telefónica's global business units and technology infrastructure.