According to the Global Startup Ecosystem Index, published by the international consultancy StartupBlink, Barcelona ranks as the fifth-best startup ecosystem in the European Union, becoming the leading hub for startups in Souther Europe.
Barcelona has once again solidified its position as the leading hub for emerging companies in Southern Europe. The Catalan capital has climbed one spot in the European Union ranking, now standing fifth in the Global Startup Ecosystem Index, trailing only Paris, Berlin, Stockholm, and Amsterdam.
The publication also highlights Barcelona’s top global rankings in several industries, naming it the best city for the Games and Pharmaceutical sectors. Additionally, it places Barcelona among the top five worldwide in five different industries: third in the Internet of Things, and fifth in both Cleantech and Travel.
StartupBlink, the consultancy behind the study, specializes in analyzing startup ecosystems. The report assesses 1,000 cities across 100 countries, evaluating parameters such as the number and quality of startups, the business climate, coworking spaces, accelerators, successful ventures, unicorns, and the traction generated by leading startups. Making Barcelona a leading hub for startups in Europe.
Barcelona: A Diverse, Skilled Capital
“Barcelona is recognized as a smart city, making it an attractive and appealing place to live and work. The city embodies an entrepreneurial spirit, driven by a talented workforce,” the report states.
It highlights the city’s educational excellence and advanced technological centers, noting the significant contributions of ESADE and IESE in producing skilled graduates. The cosmopolitan nature of the city and its business-friendly climate continue to draw talented professionals from around the globe.
The report also emphasizes the Business Landing service by Barcelona Activa, designed for international companies and entrepreneurs looking to establish themselves in Barcelona. Additionally, it highlights the Barcelona & Catalonia Startup Hub’s role in connecting technological startups with funding opportunities and mentions prominent events like Tech Spirit Barcelona and 4YFN.
A Strong Commitment to Innovation
The report praises Barcelona’s robust network of institutions. Universities, research centers, technological hubs, and both local and international companies foster a dynamic environment for emerging companies, facilitating business collaborations and opportunities.
The city’s technological hubs, such as the Eurecat Technology Centre, the Catalan Institute of Photonics, and the Barcelona Supercomputing Centre, are crucial for advancing research in computing, life sciences, earth sciences, and the application of computing in science and engineering.
Access to Accelerators and Funding
Initiatives that provide collaboration and funding opportunities are essential for nurturing this entrepreneurial ecosystem. The study highlights programs that support startups in their early stages, offering mentoring and networking services.
The report mentions successful startups like TravelPerk and Inbenta, which have benefited from this support network, securing significant investments of €95 million and €37 million, respectively. The report concludes, “Barcelona’s startup ecosystem features a mix of innovative local businesses and major multinational firms across various sectors, including cutting-edge technologies like AI, robotics, and IoT, enhancing the city’s appeal to startups.”
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Source: Barcelona International Welcome1
