The University of Barcelona, pioneer in the creation of innovative knowledge-based companies

The University of Barcelona (UB) has historically been a leading institution in the creation of spin-offs, innovative companies emerging from the university's research projects. For more than two decades, we have firmly committed to knowledge transfer as a fundamental tool to generate social, economic, and technological impact.

This pioneering vision has allowed us to consolidate a solid, diverse, and constantly evolving entrepreneurial ecosystem. Since 2001, the Bosch i Gimpera Foundation (FBG), the UB's knowledge transfer office, has contributed to creating more than fifty start-ups. Currently, we have 23 active spin-offs, which in 2024 managed to raise more than 14 million euros in funding, both public and private, a record figure that demonstrates the maturity and attractiveness of these initiatives.

Furthermore, the university's spin-off companies invoiced a total of 10.2 million euros and generated 227 jobs, contributing to boosting the economy and creating employment in the territory. These companies not only generate qualified employment but also stimulate the competitiveness of our industrial fabric.

But beyond the figures, the true success lies in seeing how the knowledge generated within the University is transformed into real solutions for society: from innovative cancer therapies to educational tools that improve children's learning. The accumulated experience throughout the entire life cycle of these companies ---from birth to consolidation or acquisition--- has allowed us to understand the main challenges that researchers will encounter along the way, and to accompany and advise them to promote more solid spin-offs, with greater capacity for growth and survival.

This trajectory consolidates the University of Barcelona as a benchmark in the field of knowledge transfer and innovation. The experience gathered over the years allows us to anticipate future challenges and reinforces our commitment to research aimed at generating value and impact for all citizens. The University of Barcelona, hand in hand with the Bosch i Gimpera Foundation, will continue to lead the way, turning each new challenge into an opportunity for the knowledge generated in the university environment to have a tangible impact on society.