The Governing Council has approved an additional investment of 4 million euros for the Zero Rate, which subsidises 100% of the contributions of new self-employed workers. In total, the budget for 2026 amounts to 11 million.
The Community of Madrid has strengthened its support for entrepreneurs with a new financial injection of 4 million euros into the Zero Rate, the programme that fully covers the Social Security contributions of those registering as self-employed. This expansion, approved by the Governing Council, raises the total budget allocated to this line of aid for 2026 to 11 million euros.
According to the Ministry of Economy, Finance and Employment, this measure is expected to benefit more than 12,000 new self-employed workers in the region. The aim is to facilitate the start of business projects and contribute to job creation in a context where the number of self-employed workers in Madrid has reached a historic high, with 446,629 registered.
The Zero Rate is aimed at all self-employed individuals who start their activity during the current year. However, the aid includes special conditions for certain groups. Individuals with a disability of 33% or more, as well as victims of gender-based violence or terrorism, will be able to benefit from the subsidy for 24 months. This period can be extended to 60 months for those who prove annual earnings equal to or below the Minimum Interprofessional Wage (SMI).
The initiative also includes specific measures to promote the reintegration of women into the workforce. Those who have ceased their activity due to childbirth or adoption can apply for the aid if they resume it within the two years following, in line with the Community of Madrid's 2022-2026 Birth Strategy. Additionally, coverage extends to self-employed individuals receiving benefits for caring for minors affected by cancer or another serious illness.
A notable section is dedicated to those over 52 years old. This group, upon ceasing to receive unemployment benefits, can receive an amount equivalent to the monthly payment they were no longer receiving — 480 euros in 2026 — for a maximum of twelve months if they decide to start a business. The measure aims to prevent the loss of benefits from discouraging the start of self-employment.
The regional government emphasises that the Zero Rate is a key tool for continuing to promote self-employment in the region. With this budget expansion, the aim is to maintain the upward trend in the number of self-employed workers, which is already reaching record figures. Interested parties can check the requirements and access the application through the official website of the Community of Madrid.
For new self-employed workers, this aid represents significant relief in the initial months of activity, when income is often more uncertain. The 100% subsidy of the Social Security contribution reduces the initial fixed burden and allows entrepreneurs to focus on consolidating their business.
The Ministry of Economy, Finance and Employment reminds that, in addition to the Zero Rate, there are other aids and advisory programmes for self-employed individuals and entrepreneurs in the Community of Madrid. All information is available on the regional government's employment portal.
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