Last Friday, we attended the General Assembly of the Huelva Federation of Entrepreneurs (FOE), where the province’s main economic stakeholders agreed on the importance of business associations as an essential tool for dialogue and cohesion within the productive sector, as well as on the crucial role of entrepreneurs as a driving force for economic and social development.
During the session, the 2024 Activity Report was approved, and the traditional President’s Report was presented by José Luis García-Palacios Álvarez, who expressed his gratitude for the continued commitment of member companies, stating that “without them, the very existence of the FOE would have no meaning.” He also delved into the role of entrepreneurs, who face challenges such as legal uncertainty and tax pressure, and emphasized the value of businesses and the people behind them.
He also highlighted the work carried out by the FOE as a space for unity and dialogue, and called for urgent investments in key infrastructure such as the high-speed rail connection between Seville, Huelva, and Faro, the creation of an airport for the province, and essential water and electricity projects to ensure economic growth and attract new industrial initiatives.
In his address, he also highlighted Huelva’s role as a hub for the European energy transition, driven by green hydrogen and initiatives such as the National Green Hydrogen Congress, emphasizing that “the planned investments will represent a new industrial revolution for our province.”
During the Assembly, the FOE Gold Badges were awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the business and economic development of the province. Fátima Báñez, president of the CEOE Foundation, was recognized for her work in dignifying the image of entrepreneurs and advocating for an inclusive and competitive economic model; Carlos Ortiz, for a professional career committed to driving the region’s economy; and Juan Antonio García Villadeamigo, for his tireless defense of local commerce and his dedication to business associations, making him a key figure in Huelva’s entrepreneurial community.
One of the most emotional moments of the event was the tribute paid by the FOE’s governing bodies—represented by its vice president, Antonio Gemio—to president José Luis García-Palacios Álvarez on the occasion of his tenth anniversary at the helm of the organization. The Assembly concluded with a speech by the president of the Confederation of Employers of Andalusia (CEA), Javier González de Lara, who emphasized the essential role of the FOE in the economic cohesion of the province and expressed his support for García-Palacios’ leadership as he marks a decade leading the organization.
In this context of collaboration among members to establish synergies, it is worth highlighting the recent agreement signed between Gabitel and the Huelva Federation of Entrepreneurs (FOE). Thanks to this partnership, member companies can access specialized technical services under preferential conditions to enhance their competitiveness—ranging from energy projects to digital solutions—with advantageous terms and personalized support.
Photo: FOE
