South Summit 2025 has solidified Madrid’s status as a leading startup hub in Europe. As Ángel Niño, Madrid’s Councilor for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, emphasized, the city is home to Europe’s largest regulatory sandbox, attracting startups from all over the world looking to test and scale. With upcoming editions planned in Korea and Brazil, and the growing impact of AI transforming the entrepreneurial ecosystem, we continue to shape the future of innovation on a global scale.
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5 revolutionary startups from South Summit 2025 that stole the spotlight
A global hotspot for innovation and entrepreneurial talent, this fourteenth edition was nothing short of a powerhouse. Among hundreds of promising ventures, five startups stood out by pushing the boundaries of technology, sustainability, and scalability. Here are the 5 most revolutionary startups from South Summit 2025 you need to know:
Lain Tech – Global Winner from Spain
Based in Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, Lain Tech has emerged as the grand winner of South Summit 2025. Their groundbreaking technology, E-LIX, is transforming the mining industry through a proprietary hydrometallurgical process. This electrochemical method enables on-site recovery of complex metals like copper and zinc in a fully sustainable manner. Lain Tech not only reduces operational costs but is also setting a new environmental standard in the industry. Their innovation exemplifies the future of Industry 5.0—efficient, green, and impactful.
Bankuish – Most Disruptive Startup from USA
Hailing from Miami, Bankuish is redefining financial inclusion. This fintech platform bridges the gap between gig economy workers and the traditional banking system by helping freelancers and self-employed individuals build credit profiles using alternative data. In an age where traditional banking often overlooks independent workers, Bankuish’s solution offers a disruptive, AI-driven approach that unlocks access to credit and financial products for millions globally.
Hera Materials – Most Sustainable Startup from Chile
Hera Materials is on a mission to transform sustainability in manufacturing. The Chilean startup has been recognized for its pioneering development of eco-friendly materials that replace harmful plastics and composites in industries like packaging, automotive, and construction. Their focus on biodegradability, circular economy, and low-carbon production makes Hera Materials a leader in sustainable innovation—a critical need in today’s climate crisis.
NeuralTrust – Most Scalable Startup from Spain
From Catalonia, NeuralTrust has gained attention for developing scalable, secure solutions in the field of AI and cybersecurity. Their platform integrates trustable AI algorithms that help organizations mitigate risks in real-time, with applications across finance, healthcare, and government. The scalability and versatility of NeuralTrust’s technology positions it for rapid international growth, aligning perfectly with the demands of a hyperconnected, AI-driven world.
Remuner – Best Team Award from Spain
Also from Catalonia, Remuner stood out not only for its business model but for its exceptional team dynamics. Their platform is revolutionizing employee compensation systems by introducing transparent, data-driven payroll and reward structures that align better with employee performance and satisfaction. Winning the Best Team award highlights how human capital and internal collaboration are just as crucial as technological innovation in startup success.
The 100 finalists at South Summit 2025 showed us what the future looks like—bold, intelligent, and sustainable. From revolutionizing mining to reinventing payroll systems, these startups are not just shaping tomorrow; they are defining what’s next. Ready to discover the next unicorn? Keep an eye on these game-changing startups.