Technology, Agility and Purpose: The Roadmap for SME Growth and Digital Resilience
Jesús Sánchez Agudo, Cisco Spain’s Business Lead for SMEs, explains how Cisco’s technology can turn market challenges into opportunities to scale up with resilience.
In today’s business world, where change is the only constant, small and medium-sized enterprises in Spain face the dual challenge of surviving and growing. We spoke with Jesús Sánchez Agudo from Cisco Spain about how technology has become the most strategic ally for SMEs on their journey toward efficiency, scalability and competitiveness.
How did your journey in technology begin?
It started almost by accident. While I was still a student, I worked in telemarketing for a Cisco distributor. Over time, I moved from marketing to business development, and eventually, Cisco came calling. They contacted me twice—and honestly, it’s hard to say no to Cisco. That’s how my path began.
What is the current role of technology in SMEs?
Today, technology is no longer optional. It’s the key lever to maximize efficiency, reduce costs, and respond with agility to change. SMEs need to adapt to new consumer behaviors, regulatory shifts, and increasingly digital customer expectations. From my perspective, technology is clearly the best ally to meet these goals.
What are the main challenges Spanish SMEs are facing right now?
First: increasing revenue while reducing operational costs.
Second: adapting quickly to change.
After five years of disruption—pandemics, accelerated digitization, economic uncertainty—those SMEs still standing are resilient. But now, they need to scale. And that means becoming more efficient, more connected, and more secure.
How has the approach to tech investment evolved over the years?
Today, SMEs are looking for mid- and long-term returns. Their decision-making process has become more professional, and the value of trusted guidance has grown significantly. Having the right technology partner is crucial for building tailored, sustainable solutions that can evolve with the business.
What technologies are critical for scaling over the next five years?
There are three essential pillars:
- Secure and resilient connectivity
- Smart collaboration between teams
- Cybersecurity as a transversal foundation
And of course, we must add Artificial Intelligence, which enhances each of these areas by improving detection, automation, and personalization.
What would you say to an SME that still sees technology as a cost rather than an investment?
That it’s a strategic mistake. Digital now accounts for 26% of Spain’s GDP. Technology investment is growing at a double-digit pace. Initiatives like the Kit Digital show that the direction is clear: transform or be left behind.
Can you share a real-world example?
Absolutely. Without mentioning names, here are two examples:
- A retail clothing chain in Barcelona significantly reduced their technical incidents (by 80%) and improved their e-commerce performance after implementing Cisco Meraki
- An architecture studio improved its remote working setup with Cisco’s secure teleworker technology. As a result, they expanded their operations to Central Europe. Technology and talent together create real impact.
A final message for SMEs?
In Spain, SMEs are the heart of the business landscape. If they grow, the country grows. At Cisco, together with our certified partner ecosystem, we are fully committed to supporting them with proximity, innovation and long-term vision.
“When an SME thrives, it helps society evolve—building a stronger present and a better future for all of us.”
Digital transformation is not a destination—it’s a strategic journey.
SMEs that embrace technology today are building a future that is more competitive, resilient and human.
Are you ready to take the next step?
