José María Ramón, founder and CEO of Neobookings, has shared the story of how he built a company that began nearly 25 years ago with just €20 and a computer and has since grown to employ almost 50 people and handle more than one million hotel bookings a year. He spoke to students at IES Balàfia in Ibiza during an initiative aimed at encouraging entrepreneurship among young people.
Organised with the support of the Ibiza and Formentera Chamber of Commerce, the event gave students first-hand insight into the experience of an entrepreneur who turned a venture started in a bedroom in Ibiza into a technology company with an international reach.
During the session, Ramón, who is also a member of the Chamber of Commerce’s plenary body, discussed the challenges he faced when launching his business, the importance of learning from mistakes and the opportunities offered by emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI).
According to a statement from the Chamber of Commerce, the entrepreneur encouraged students to believe in their abilities and develop their own business ideas. Drawing on his own experience, he highlighted how it is possible to build a business in Ibiza and compete in international markets.
Ramón also recalled the support he received from the Chamber of Commerce during the early stages of his venture, particularly with setting up a company, managing finances and preparing a business plan. He emphasised the importance of seeking professional advice when starting a business.
Through this initiative, the Ibiza and Formentera Chamber of Commerce aims to bring the business world closer to schools and equip future entrepreneurs with the tools they need to turn their ideas into viable projects.
The institution highlights the value of introducing young people to real-life business experiences that can inspire them and, in the long term, help drive economic development across Ibiza and Formentera, collectively known as the Pityusic Islands.