Internationalization of companies: ACCIÓ grants and how to structure an effective export strategy
This content has been prepared by the EMD team, a consulting firm accredited by ACCIÓ (Agency for Business Competitiveness).
Index
>>What is the internationalization of a company?
>> Difference between exporting and internationalizing
>> Why internationalization requires strategic planning
>> What support does the Generalitat de Catalunya offer for exporting?
>> What are the ACCIÓ Coupons for Internationalization?
>> Types of ACCIÓ Coupons available
>> Which companies are eligible for these grants?
>> What expenses are covered by ACCIÓ coupons?
>> How to apply for an ACCIÓ Coupon
>> When is the next call for applications for ACCIÓ assistance?
>> The role of the ACCIÓ-accredited consulting firm
>> EMD the consulting firm accredited by ACCIÓ
>> How to identify opportunities in international markets
>> The 7 stages of internationalization
>>How to start the ACCIÓ Grants process
>> FAQs: Accredited consulting – Next call – Core services – What is EMD? – How can a digital strategy help my company?
What is the internationalization of a company?
The internationalization of a company is a strategic expansion process through which an organization carries out economic activity in international markets on a stable basis, adapting its structure, value proposition and operating model to environments other than the domestic market.
Unlike specific foreign sales actions, internationalization involves planning, risk analysis, market selection and the definition of a roadmap that allows sustained and controlled growth over time.
Difference between exporting and internationalizing
Exporting means doing business abroad, while internationalizing means integrating the international market into the company’s overall strategy.
Internationalization covers aspects such as:
– Market selection and prioritization
– Definition of entry channels
– Commercial, legal and operational adaptation
– Financial and resource planning
Understanding this difference is key to avoid improvised approaches that often generate cost overruns and limited results.
Why internationalization requires strategic planning
Planning is the element that reduces uncertainty and allows efficient allocation of resources.
A well-designed international strategy helps to:
– Identify markets with real potential
– Minimize commercial and regulatory risks
– Establish measurable objectives
– Define a viable and scalable action plan
Companies that plan their internationalization make decisions based on data and not only on short-term opportunities.
What support does the Generalitat de Catalunya offer for exporting?
The Generalitat de Catalunya, through ACCIÓ, has internationalization support programs aimed at SMEs that wish to initiate or consolidate their presence in foreign markets.
These programs combine:
– Financial subsidies
– Specialized advice
– Strategic support
The objective is to help companies structure their internationalization process correctly , both online and offline.
What are the ACCIÓ Coupons for Internationalization?
The ACCIÓ Coupons for Internationalization are non-competitive public grants, awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, which finance professional consulting services for export projects.
They are designed to provide SMEs with accredited expert support in the definition and execution of their international strategy.
Types of ACCIÓ Coupons available
Export Strategy Coupon
The Export Strategy Coupon is aimed at companies that need to define or reorganize their international strategy.
This coupon finances:
– Analysis of the company’s current situation
– Evaluation and selection of priority markets
– Definition of the entry strategy
– Preparation of an action plan with objectives and timetable
Maximum eligible amount: up to €8,000.
Coupon to Start Exporting
The Coupon to Start Exporting is aimed at companies that do not yet export or do so only occasionally and wish to structure their first export process.
Includes:
– Export diagnosis
– Initial market analysis
– Definition of the start-up strategy
– Identification of potential customers or channels
Maximum eligible amount: up to 10,500 €.
Which companies are eligible for these grants?
SMEs with operational headquarters in Catalonia that meet the requirements defined in each call can apply for ACCIÓ Coupons.
In general, the following is required:
– Activity and operational establishment in Catalonia
– Minimum turnover (usually from 250,000 €)
– Limited export level (usually less than 25%)
– Website with foreign language content
– Contracting services with suppliers accredited by ACCIÓ
What expenses are covered by ACCIÓ coupons?
These grants do not cover the company’s internal expenses or its own investments.
ACCIÓ Coupons exclusively finance external professional advisory services, provided by ACCIÓ-accredited consulting firms.
How to apply for an ACCIÓ Coupon
The application process is carried out telematically through the Canal Empresa of the Generalitat de Catalunya and consists of several phases:
- Publication of the call for proposals and opening of deadline
- Preparation of the application and required documentation
- Submission within the established deadline
- Resolution by ACCIÓ
- Project implementation and final justification
Grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, so proper initial preparation is crucial.
When is the next call for ACCIÓ applications?
The call for ACCIÓ 2026 Coupons is scheduled for the second quarter of the year and is managed on a competitive basis, which means that grants are only awarded until the available budget is exhausted.
In previous editions, funds have been consumed in a very short time, so it is essential to prepare all the documentation in advance in order to submit the application on the same day the call for applications opens and maximize the chances of obtaining the grant.
The role of the ACCIÓ-accredited consulting firm
To access these grants it is mandatory to hire an ACCIÓ-accredited advisor, who acts as a provider of the subsidized service.
These consultancies are qualified to:
– Design the internationalization project
– Execute the approved strategic plan
– Ensure compliance with the requirements
– Prepare the justification documentation
EMD as an ACCIÓ accredited consultancy.
EMD (Estrategia Marketing Digital) is a consultancy specialized in internationalization and digital marketing. Eric Onidi, founder of EMD, is accredited by ACCIÓ to provide internationalization services to Catalan companies.
EMD’s support includes:
– Analysis of international markets
– Definition of the export strategy
– Development of the action plan
– Support in the processing of ACCIÓ coupons
– Preparation and validation of the final justification
This approach allows companies to maximize the chances of success and reduce risks throughout the process.
How to identify opportunities in international markets
Opportunity identification is a critical phase of the internationalization process.
It is based on a structured analysis that includes:
– Consumption and demand trends
– Economic indicators and forecasts
– Entry barriers and regulatory requirements
– Available distribution channels
– Competitor analysis and buyer behavior
This analysis allows prioritizing markets and orienting the strategy towards scenarios with greater potential.
What are the 7 stages of internationalization?
1) Internal analysis
It is a pre-diagnostic strategy to ensure that the company can compete abroad.
Evaluate the company’s real capacity to internationalize:
– Products and services
– Current sales channels
– Value proposition
– Internal resources and capabilities
– Digital readiness
2) External market analysis
Data-driven market selection strategy.
In-depth study of the target markets:
– Key competitors
– Potential buyers
– Trends
– Barriers to entry
– Legal framework
– Online and offline opportunities
3) International Promotion Plan
Structured planning strategy to enter new countries.
Creation of a detailed plan that includes:
– Market figures and trends
– Regulatory aspects
– Distribution
– Entry channels
– Budget and KPIs
4) International strategy
Expansion-oriented digitalization strategy.
Adaptation of marketing to each country:
Online
– International SEO (search engine optimization)
– Multichannel advertising
– Culturally and linguistically adapted content
– Web optimization for specific markets
Offline
– Trade fairs, press releases, trade missions, local distributor network, traditional advertising, radio type, magazines, catalog, participation in relevant industry associations.
5) Implementation of the action plan
Guided implementation strategy to ensure results.
Accompanied implementation:
– Campaign management
– Continuous optimization
– Strategic monitoring
– Adjustments according to results
6) Access to public financing for international promotion projects.
At EMD we comprehensively manage subsidies for international promotion projects, helping companies to finance their expansion in foreign markets.
Our service includes:
– Complete processing of grants for internationalization, from the preparation of the documentation to the final presentation.
– Advice on amounts, requirements and current calls for proposals, with updated and verified information.
– Guidance on specific online and offline international promotion programs, such as participation in trade fairs, trade missions, campaigns in foreign markets or adaptation of materials.
– Access to additional resources through EMD’s internal pages, where we provide further details on each call for proposals and their benefits.
7) Prevention of common errors: Risk mitigation strategy.
Advice to avoid:
– Poor choice of markets
– Misaligned investments
– Ineffective digital strategies
– Regulatory issues
How to hire our services?
Through the contact form.
Or call +34 609 87 05 07, or book a meeting directly online.
Recommendation
Internationalization is a strategic growth decision that requires method, analysis and professional support.
With proper planning and the support of public instruments such as ACCIÓ Coupons through EMD Digital Marketing Strategy, companies can approach international markets in a structured way, reducing risks and increasing their chances of success.
FAQS
Acció Accredited Consulting
At EMD, we are accredited by ACCIÓ to help you define and execute your internationalization strategy, ensuring that your expansion is successful and sustainable.
With this, EMD can carry out projects and apply for grants for your company:
In the aid program “ACCIÓ Export Strategy Coupons” aimed at the international promotion of companies in digital channels.
In the aid program “ACCIÓ Strategy Coupons” aimed at industrial companies to redefine the business model and innovation of the organization.
Download the complete information in pdf format
When is the next call for applications for the Acció grant?
The call for ACCiÓ 2026 Coupons is scheduled for the second quarter of the year and is managed on a competitive basis, which means that grants are only awarded until the available budget is exhausted.
In previous editions, funds have been used up in a very short time, so it is essential to prepare all the documentation in advance in order to submit the application on the same day the call for applications opens and maximize the chances of obtaining the grant.
What are our main services?
Comprehensive digital strategy: Expert support to define and execute a digital plan aligned with business objectives.
Digital marketing management: Continuous implementation of digital actions with constant analysis, monitoring and optimization.
Consulting and personalized advice: Analysis sessions, diagnosis and strategic guidance to resolve doubts and make informed decisions.
Training and support: Aimed at internal teams and expert support throughout the process.
Projects in collaboration with entities such as PIMEC: Support for companies within competitiveness and business growth programs.
What is EMD?
Estrategia Marketing Digital (EMD) is an agency specialized in internationalizing and accompanying companies looking to grow, professionalize their online presence and obtain real results through a solid digital strategy. The team combines strategic vision, detailed analysis and a very business-oriented approach to help companies make clear and effective decisions.
How can a digital strategy help my company?
A well-designed digital strategy can transform the way your company grows and positions itself. Depending on what the web conveys, a digital strategy can help you to:
Obtain measurable and sustainable results, thanks to a constant and professional follow-up
Increase onlinevisibility and reach new customers.
Make decisions based on data, not intuition.
Optimize your marketingactions to obtain better results with less effort.
Improve competitiveness within your sector.
Align your businessobjectives with specific digital actions.
Avoid commonmistakes thanks to the support of experts.
Conclusion
For entrepreneurs and SMEs wishing to grow beyond their borders, sustainable logistics is no longer a moral option but a strategic and mandatory asset of international trade.
Do you want to succeed in your outsourcing?
At EMD – Digital Marketing Strategy we accompany companies that want to internationalize and grow with purpose.
🗓️ Book directly an online meeting HERE
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