Laura León

All articles by: Laura León

18 September, 2025  

The September Newsletter and the new MOBIpreneur ebook are now available.

The European project that is revolutionising entrepreneurial training through mobile microlearning and artificial intelligence, is now available. In this edition, you will find the latest news, upcoming events, and opportunities for those who wish to boost their entrepreneurship with flexible and accessible methodologies.
In addition, you can now download the ebook ‘MOBIpreneur Entrepreneurial Needs Analysis & Research Report’ from our website. This study offers a comprehensive analysis of the challenges, skills gaps and digital learning preferences of small business owners, especially those in rural areas and communities at risk of exclusion in Europe. Its conclusions are essential for the development of innovative mobile-based educational solutions designed to respond to the real needs of today’s entrepreneurs.
Don’t forget that you can also follow all the latest news about the project and the newsletter on our LinkedIn profile, where we share news, resources and opportunities for digital entrepreneurs.

Download the E-BOOK
Newsletter

18 September, 2025  

ALL-IN: sport becomes a driving force for equality and safe spaces for LGBTQ+ youth in Europe

We are thrilled to announce that the new European Erasmus+ KA210-YOU ALL-IN project has been approved: The Game of Inclusion (LGBTQ+), an innovative initiative that promotes sport as a tool to combat stereotypes and foster equality. ALL-IN: The Game of Inclusion (LGBTQ+), an innovative initiative that promotes sport as a tool for combating stereotypes and fostering equality.

The project, which will run from September 2025 to February 2027 with a budget of €60,000, seeks to create safe, inclusive and empowering sporting environments for LGBTQ+ young people, with a special focus on trans and non-binary individuals.

This international consortium is led by the Asociación Deportiva Cierzo proLGTB+ (Spain) and has the collaboration of the Fundación Developia (Spain), Le Girofard (France) and the Lithuanian Gay League (Lithuania). Each partner will contribute their expertise in key areas: sports inclusion, education, rights advocacy and legal protection.

Among the planned activities are:

  • Interactive inclusion workshops and peer mentoring programmes.
  • Collaborative creation laboratories and digital storytelling spaces.
  • The major international Legacy Event & Future Connections Summit, aimed at generating impact and future inclusive policies.

At the Developia Foundation, we express our enormous satisfaction and commitment to this project, which represents a decisive step forward in continuing to promote values of respect, diversity and equality in the field of youth and sport.

With ALL-IN, we want to show that sport is not just about competition, but also a space to celebrate diversity and build a more equal future.

9 September, 2025  

The Developia Foundation joins the international consortium seeking to train 800 young Mexicans in renewable energy and sustainable mobility

The Developia Foundation is pleased to announce its participation as a co-applicant in the project ‘Energy and Talent MX: Creating job opportunities for Mexican youth’, an initiative funded by the European Commission that has been approved within the call for Civil Society Organisations – Mexico 2024.

The project, which will run for 36 months, has as its main objective to boost the employability of young Mexicans aged 18 to 30 in socially vulnerable situations, with a special focus on the states of Sonora and Nuevo León. The initiative will train 800 young people (50% women) in technical and professional skills in the renewable energy and sustainable mobility sectors.

As part of the international consortium led by the Nuevo León Automotive Cluster (CLAUT), Developia has actively participated in both the drafting and conceptual design of the project and its implementation, contributing its expertise in:

  • Development of digital educational platforms: Leading the creation of ‘Talent Gateway,’ an innovative digital environment that will connect young people with employers and offer online courses with international certifications.
  • Innovative learning methodologies: Integrating gamification and artificial intelligence into training programmes.
  • Soft skills development: Designing specialised modules in cross-cutting skills essential for job placement.

One of the most notable innovations of the project is the adaptation of the Norwegian Jobbjansen model, which will combine academic training with real work experience. This programme will directly benefit 120 young people, and it is expected that at least 85% will successfully complete the training and be in a position to access employment contracts.

The consortium is made up of specialised organisations from Mexico, Spain and Norway:

This international collaboration will enable the transfer of best European practices to Mexico and generate evidence-based public policy recommendations to promote youth inclusion and sustainable development.

The ‘Energy and Talent MX’ project represents a unique opportunity to apply our experience in inclusive technological development and training with an entrepreneurial and social focus in an international context, contributing to the development of skills that will enable young Mexicans to access decent jobs in key sectors for a sustainable future.

14 July, 2025  

SCALE-UP recognized as an example of good practice in Spain

The SCALE-UP project is consolidating itself as an innovative European initiative focused on improving the employability of young people seeking opportunities across Europe. Responding to the changing needs of the labor market, SCALE-UP helps young people develop the essential skills and knowledge that employers demand today – from emotional intelligence and leadership to green transition, circular economy, and digital communication.

Coordinated by ESIC Business & Marketing School, the project has stood out for its comprehensive and strategic approach to tackling youth employability challenges. Thanks to its leadership, effective collaboration among European partners has been achieved, building a shared vision centered on empowering new generations.

Through data collection and analysis, the project has produced an in-depth report on the challenges young people face when entering the job market. This work has served as the foundation for the development of a skills assessment tool and an online training platform, both designed to support young people in building their strengths and professional confidence.

SCALE-UP has also organized interactive and collective training events, where participants enjoyed practical, dynamic, and creative learning experiences. These workshops strengthened critical thinking and emotional intelligence, going beyond theoretical content to promote self-awareness, collaboration, and reflection.

From day one, SCALE-UP has maintained a strong commitment to inclusion and accessibility, offering personalized support that enables young people to learn at their own pace and receive practical guidance to navigate a constantly evolving labor market.

We are proud to announce that SCALE-UP has been recognized as a good practice in Spain by the National Youth Agency – a recognition of its innovative approach and real impact on youth empowerment. This achievement would not have been possible without the drive, vision, and commitment of ESIC, whose leadership has guided the project successfully through every phase.

Together, we continue to expand opportunities and build brighter futures.

11 April, 2025  

The place to value the wine culture of the Cariñena D.O.

The Designation of Origin has completely renovated the building and its contents, with an investment of 1.44 million euros, 65% financed by European funds from the EST – Interreg POCTEFA programme.

Tuesday, April 10 2025- The Cariñena Designation of Origin has inaugurated the Cariñena Wine Museum, a modern centre that combines tradition and modernity to offer a unique immersive experience in the world of wine. After a complete refurbishment, the new wine museum offers an innovative exhibition route with interactive and experiential content. The building’s services, accessibility and energy efficiency have also been improved. The new space will continue to house the headquarters of the Control Board and will also house the municipal Tourist Office and the Campo de Cariñena Wine Route, as well as cultural and research activities.

The execution of the new museum has involved a total investment of 1,442,214.42 euros. The project is 65% financed with European funds from the Interreg POCTEFA programme, a cooperation programme that aims to promote and co-finance cooperation projects carried out by French, Spanish and Andorran entities. The EST project is part of a global initiative of sustainable wine tourism and cross-border culture developed in collaboration with other Spanish and French entities: Developia Foundation, D.O. Navarra, Vignerons du Jurançon and Cave de Gan.

The opening ceremony held yesterday was attended by the president of Aragón, Jorge Azcón, who cut the inaugural ribbon, together with the president of the D.O., Antonio Ubide, and the mayor of the town, Sergio Ortiz, along with numerous institutional and social representatives. The other D.O.’s involved in the project are working on the creation of similar spaces in their facilities, which will be completed in the coming months of 2025.

In the Cariñena D.O. space, visitors can experience a unique journey through the senses, with 360-degree videos, videomapping experiences and interactive elements, to invite visitors to explore and experience the different aspects that make up the wine universe in a sensory way. In this way, the aim is to transmit the culture and tradition and the modern present and future of one of the oldest appellations in Spain, which has been a pioneer in many cultivation and production techniques.

What does the EST project envisage now?

Cross-border tourism promotion activities and joint sales between the French and Spanish designations of origin are now being pursued. Much more is planned for 2026.

3 April, 2025  

XS-ABILITY at the European Robotics Forum 2025

From March 25 to 27, XS-ABILITY had the privilege of being represented at the European Robotics Forum 2025 (ERF2025) in Stuttgart, Germany, through our partner IFE. This annual event, a cornerstone for Europe’s robotics and AI community, brought together over 1,500 researchers, engineers, policymakers, and industry leaders under the theme:
“Boosting the Synergies between Robotics and AI for a Stronger Europe.”

Why ERF2025 mattered for XS-ABILITY

As an initiative dedicated to harnessing AI and robotics for accessibility, our participation in ERF2025 was an opportunity to engage with cutting-edge advancements that align with our mission. The event featured:

  • More than 50 workshops and keynotes, highlighting the latest breakthroughs in AI-powered robotics.
  • The KIRO (AI-based Robotics 2025) conference, supported by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs (BMWK) and the Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), highlighting AI’s transformative role in robotics.
  • An extensive exhibition, displaying innovative robotic solutions designed to address real world challenges.
  • Site visits to top research centers, offering first-hand insights into pioneering developments in AI-driven robotics.
  • B2B matchmaking & networking, fostering collaboration with leading institutions like Fraunhofer Institutes, Cyber Valley, and the University of Stuttgart.

AI & Robotics for a more inclusive society

At XS-ABILITY, we believe that the fusion of robotics and AI holds immense potential for improving accessibility and inclusion. Engaging with experts at ERF2025 reinforced our commitment to leveraging technology to break barriers and ensure that people of all abilities can benefit from AI-driven solutions.

Beyond the technical advancements, ERF2025 provided a unique space to discuss the social impact of robotics, emphasizing ethical AI and human-centered design to create more inclusive and equitable technologies.

Looking Ahead

We’re excited about the partnerships, insights, and inspiration gained at ERF2025 and look forward to integrating these advancements into XS-ABILITY’s future developments. Events like ERF2025 serve as crucial platforms for driving innovation, collaboration, and progress, ensuring that AI and robotics continue to evolve for the benefit of all.

14 March, 2025  

Europe makes progress in nuclear safety: experts meet in Marcoule to innovate in decommissioning

Today, specialists from all over Europe are meeting in Marcoule, invited by CEA Marcoule, to work on the project XS-ABILITY, funded by the Horizon Europe EURATOM program. This project seeks to develop new ways to make the decommissioning of nuclear facilities safer, more efficient and more sustainable.

They are currently developing robots designed to assist in the testing phase of the project. These robots can make the work of dismantling nuclear facilities safer for people and more efficient. The demonstration in Marcoule will allow them to be tested before being used in real situations.

The XS-ABILITY project brings together entities from France, Spain, Norway, Finland, Belgium, Italy and Switzerland, reflecting an international approach to tackling this challenge.

Spain has a key role in this project thanks to the DEVELOPIA FOUNDATION, which not only participates in its development, but is also responsible for communicating its progress and achievements. Its work is essential for the solutions developed to reach experts, policy makers and society in general. Developia’s participation demonstrates Spain’s commitment to research and development of new technologies for nuclear decommissioning.

Today’s visit and the discussions in Marcoule represent a major step towards safer and smarter nuclear decommissioning, contributing to a more sustainable future.

For more information on XS-ABILITY, visit: www.xs-ability.eu

24 February, 2025  

Breaking the Cycle: a legacy of youth inclusion and empowerment

Early school leaving is one of the main barriers to the future of young people, especially those in vulnerable situations. The lack of opportunities and adequate support can perpetuate cycles of exclusion, limiting the personal and professional development of thousands of young people across Europe. Aware of this reality, at Developia we have promoted Breaking the Cycle, an innovative project that has demonstrated how education, support and creativity can make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

As the Breaking the Cycle project draws to a close, we reflect on the impact of this transformative initiative, designed to foster youth participation, European citizenship and the inclusion of those at risk of exclusion. With an innovative learner-centered approach, this project has provided key skills and confidence to participants, empowering them to take charge of their future.

Following our inspiring youth exchange in Malmö, Breaking the Cycle activities were replicated in each partner country, expanding their impact and promoting local debates on education, inclusion and youth empowerment. One of these key meetings took place on December 14, 2024, at the Asociación Cultural Grío in Córdoba, where young people from low-income backgrounds, at risk of dropping out of school prematurely, discovered the educational resources and mentoring opportunities available on our platform.

The event in Córdoba combined dynamic and educational activities that encouraged collaboration, creativity and personal development. Among them, participants took on an original construction challenge using spaghetti, tape and marshmallows, promoting teamwork and problem solving. They also had the opportunity to hear the inspiring story of Arturo, a breakdancer and activist, who shared how passion and perseverance can help overcome difficulties. They also created a gratitude tree, fostering a positive mindset, and recorded a podcast on emotional intelligence and youth aspirations.

One of the most exciting moments of the event was the practice of the flash mob choreography created in Malmö, later recreated in Zaragoza by the project’s educators. Through movement and self-expression, the young people spread the message of Breaking the Cycle, ensuring that their energy and spirit would inspire many more people.

Alongside these face-to-face events, the Breaking the Cycle online training platform has made a significant impact, with 1,825 young people registered, 26 courses completed and 60 final tests successfully passed. This resource has been key in providing participants with social and technical skills in areas such as financial education, entrepreneurship and sustainability.

The project came to a close at the University of Zaragoza, where we met with students from the Faculty of Education to discuss the crucial role of initiatives such as Breaking the Cycle in the fight against educational exclusion. As future teachers, these students will play an essential role in guaranteeing access to education and youth empowerment, demonstrating that breaking the cycles of disadvantage begins with knowledge, support and opportunities.

Although Breaking the Cycle is coming to an end, its legacy will live on in each young person who has participated, in each educator who has been inspired and in each community that has been impacted. Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey towards a more inclusive and hopeful future!

2 December, 2024  

Training day for the promotion and management of rural houses and tourist accommodation.

On May 21, a training session was organized for rural tourism sector managers in the Comarca de Calatayud, focusing on providing key strategies for the effective promotion and management of rural houses and tourist accommodations.

During the training, various topics were addressed, emphasizing the application of marketing strategies through the creation of personalized experiences. Among the digital strategies discussed were the use of booking platforms and social media to create valuable content through attractive images, enabling businesses to improve their positioning and strengthen connections with their guests. Additionally, the importance of reviews and online presence was highlighted as key elements to increase bookings and enhance the reputation of accommodations.

Another topic covered was the fundamental role of customer service throughout all stages of the tourist experience, from the first contact to follow-up after the stay. Details such as “welcome packs” and welcome letters were presented as tools to build customer loyalty and exceed expectations.

The session also underscored the importance of implementing sustainable actions, such as resource conservation, the use of renewable energies, and the adoption of other eco-friendly measures. These not only enhance the positioning of accommodations in the eyes of a more conscious tourism market but also increase the profitability of the businesses.

The event was notable for the interaction between participants and speakers, who shared experiences and concerns with their peers in the industry. This enriching exchange fostered networking in an atmosphere of collaborative learning, strengthening relationships and cohesion within the rural tourism community.

This initiative highlights the sector’s commitment to the economic development of the Comarca de Calatayud, promoting a model of sustainable, high-quality tourism that benefits both visitors and local communities.

#TourismTraining #SustainableRuralTourism #CharmingRuralHouses #MarketingStrategies #Networking

14 November, 2024  

Breaking the Cycle: Empowering young people to overcome early school leaving

Early school leaving is a multifaceted problem with significant and long-lasting consequences. It deprives young people of their potential, restricts their future opportunities and impedes societal progress. Students who leave school early face greater challenges, such as unemployment, poverty and the risk of criminal activity. This phenomenon impacts not only the individuals involved, but also society as a whole, increasing pressure on public resources and reducing economic productivity.

The Breaking the Cycle project is a comprehensive initiative designed to address the root causes of early school leaving, such as poverty, family instability and academic difficulties. The goal is to create a supportive learning environment that empowers young people to stay in school and reach their full potential through strategies such as early intervention, mentoring and academic support. The project provides the resources necessary for students to succeed. Breaking the cycle of dropping out of school is an investment in the future of our youth and in a stronger, more equitable society.

As part of this mission, the Breaking the Cycle project offers young people digital skills and fosters cultural exchange. In a recent initiative in Malmö, Sweden, young people from Spain, Greece and Sweden learned tools such as Canva and podcasting techniques, enabling them to express themselves creatively and effectively. Inspired by the story of a young Colombian dancer who overcame poverty and violence, participants reflected on the importance of a second chance and reinforced their interest in completing their studies. The experience culminated in the creation of a flash mob which they performed in Copenhagen.

By immersing themselves in a new culture and engaging with local communities, participants developed a global perspective and intercultural communication skills. This holistic approach empowers young people to become active and engaged citizens in the 21st century.