Manuel Mates Garcia is a seasoned entrepreneur and investor with over 20 years of experience in the internet and information technology sector in Spain. He is renowned for co-founding Cinet, the first B2B ISP in Spain, and Olé, the first Hispanic portal, both of which were later acquired by major telecom companies.

Currently serving as the Managing Partner at Big Sur Ventures, a seed-early stage venture capital firm focusing on funding information technology companies in sectors like internet consumer, media, and software. Manuel plays a pivotal role in supporting and mentoring portfolio companies in various areas such as business development, funding structuring, negotiation strategy, and talent management.

Manuel Mates Garcia has been instrumental in shaping the tech ecosystem in Barcelona by founding key institutions like ESADE investors and entrepreneurs club, ESADE BAN (Business Angels Network), Business Angels (BA) School, and Barcelona Tech City. He is deeply passionate about entrepreneurship, startups, and entrepreneurial financing.

In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures, Manuel is a well-respected advisor, specializing in improving business plans, investment evaluation in sectors like internet, media, hotel, and retail, as well as financing and negotiation for both entrepreneurs and investors. He is also a proficient lecturer, teacher, and researcher, focusing on topics such as business angels, startup evaluation, investment criteria, and the digital startup industry globally.

Manuel Mates Garcia holds a degree in Law from Universidad Autónoma de Bellaterra and has pursued an MBA in International Business from ESADE Business School. He is a seasoned professional with a broad spectrum of expertise and vast experience in the startup and investment landscape.