The Government of Castilla-La Mancha has conveyed its pride and recognition for the contributions of small and medium-sized enterprises (pymes) in strengthening and diversifying the regional economy. This acknowledgment was made by Patricia Franco, the regional Minister of Economy, Enterprises and Employment, during the 2026 Pyme of the Year awards ceremony held in Toledo, organised by Banco Santander, the Toledo Chamber of Commerce, and the newspaper La Tribuna.
In her speech, Franco first addressed the solidarity shown by the region's business community in the wake of the Urda train accident that occurred a week prior. She revealed that numerous businesses and pymes across the region offered their support to assist in any way possible during this difficult time, stating, “many companies and pymes with a presence throughout the region made themselves available to collaborate and contribute in any measure during very delicate moments.” She expressed gratitude for this solidarity, which she believes made a significant difference in managing the tragedy in Castilla-La Mancha.
Franco also emphasised the importance of good governance, which has enabled collaborative efforts between administrations to provide the best possible response to those experiencing profound grief, a pain that continues to resonate in the region.
During the event, she highlighted the pivotal role of pymes in the consolidation and growth of Castilla-La Mancha's economy, stating, “we feel proud as a regional government to have an economic fabric strengthened by your effort, dedication, and commitment to ensure our economy grows and diversifies.”
The Minister extended the regional government's gratitude to the pymes recognised at the event, who will represent the region, along with other awardees from different provinces, in this year's national award competition.
Additionally, Franco reminded attendees that the Pyme of the Year award, along with the 10th edition of the Castilla-La Mancha Business Merit Awards (MÉEM), is currently accepting applications until 18 November. She encouraged the business community in Toledo, which accounts for a third of the region's economic fabric, to submit their candidacies.
Finally, Franco acknowledged the efforts of the three organising entities of the award—Toledo Chamber of Commerce, Banco Santander, and La Tribuna—for their ongoing commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering the growth and development of pymes in the region.
This year, the Pyme of the Year award for the province of Toledo was awarded to Gresmanc. Other recognitions included a Special Mention for Business Legacy to Santo Tomé, the Accésit for Internationalisation to Artesanos del Cuero Rey Pavón, the Accésit for Innovation to Aeternum Game Studios, the Accésit for Training and Employment to Res Toledo, and the Sustainable Pyme Accésit awarded to Mundopalet.
