CDL-San Sebastian supports massively scalable, science-based startups in artificial intelligence and quantum technologies. Located within the Euskadi Technology Park, the site is delivered in partnership with BIC Gipuzkoa and IESE Business School, and joins CDL’s global network of programs at the intersection of cutting-edge research and commercial impact.
Startups in the program benefit from CDL’s structured, objectives-based approach, access to world-class mentors, and collaboration with a global network of investors, technical experts, and research institutions.
CDL-San Sebastian plays a central role in the region’s broader deep tech strategy, launching alongside Quantum Year 2025 and the installation of Europe’s first IBM Quantum System Two at the IBM–Euskadi Quantum Computational Centre. This infrastructure, backed by the Basque Government and Gipuzkoa Provincial Council, is set to transform the region into a hub for applied quantum commercialization.
For founders developing commercial applications of artificial intelligence, with an emphasis on natural language processing and multilingual models – leveraging the region’s strengths in language technologies, linguistics, and AI-driven communication.
For founders pursuing commercial opportunities at the intersection of quantum computing and machine learning.
Mikel Jauregi, the Basque Government’s Minister of Industry, Energy Transition, and Sustainability, emphasized the importance of opening this center at a crucial moment for enhancing Euskadi’s strategic positioning in this field, coinciding with the Quantum Year 2025. “The step we take today with the launch of CDL in Donostia-San Sebastian is a commitment to gain industrial and business competitiveness and represents a leap forward in our strategy for more and better industry. And we do it through cooperation among different institutions and public-private collaboration.”
Marisa Arriola, Managing Director of BIC Gipuzkoa: “The collaboration agreement with CDL and its quantum technology startup acceleration program represents a qualitative leap for Euskadi and Gipuzkoa in generating and transferring knowledge, promoting the creation of highly competitive companies and high-quality jobs.”
Professor Gaizka Ormazabal, Associate Dean for Research and Doctoral Programs at IESE: “Fostering entrepreneurship is an essential part of IESE’s mission. Our goal is to develop leaders who will have a profound and lasting impact through their professional excellence and spirit of service. Entrepreneurs with a true purpose provide a great service to society. These initiatives seek to support this effort.”
Contact the CDL-San Sebastian team at cdl-sansebastian@creativedestructionlab.com