Barcelona, located in a strategic geographical position in the southwest of Europe, on the Mediterranean coast of the Iberian Peninsula, in Spain, specifically in the autonomous community of Catalonia, has more than 106 technology centres, generating an estimated 26,407 jobs per year and an impact of 2.5 billion euros per year.
The city’s technology ecosystem is vibrant and intense, with the highest number of startups on record at 2,102, and a 4% increase compared to 2022 and the rest of Europe, consolidating the city as the best ecosystem in the EU for creating a startup (StartupBlink).
We can define Barcelona as a centre of innovation, technology and entrepreneurship, an international meeting point and a point of educational and professional opportunities.
Find out more about Barcelona, one of the most popular destinations for both national and international students.
Innovation and Technology Hub
Barcelona, an international benchmark in the use of technology as a way of managing a smart city. It is recognised as a major international innovation hub, with a multinational workforce of an average of 16 nationalities, a constantly evolving entrepreneurial ecosystem and a focus on emerging technologies. Its strategic location, excellent infrastructure and supportive government policies have established Barcelona as one of Europe’s leading technology and innovation hubs.
According to the Tech Hubs Overview report, promoted by Mobile World Capital Barcelona in collaboration with ACCIÓ (Generalitat de Catalunya) and the International Economic Promotion Department of Barcelona City Council, the city has surpassed its own record by quadrupling the number of international technology hubs in the last seven years, consolidating its position on the global technology scene.
In 2023, the sector created 5,200 new highly qualified jobs in Catalonia and already employs 26,407 people, 25% more than in 2022. In addition, the economic impact of these technology centres has also increased by 25% compared to 2022 and already generates €2.544 billion per year.
Finally, we highlight the implementation of 14 new centres created in 2023, such as the AstraSeneca Global Hub in clinical innovation and Cisco Systems in cybersecurity and chip design.
Of these 14 new centres, healthcare technology was the fastest growing in terms of investment. This is followed by the video games sector, which represents 20% of the companies with hubs in Catalonia. Followed by software companies, consulting and business services.
Startup Ecosystem
With an environment conducive to innovation, access to talent and plenty of investment opportunities. Barcelona has a thriving start-up ecosystem. According to a report by the Barcelona & Catalunya Startup Hub 2023, Barcelona-Catalonia is now home to 2,102 startups, the highest number ever recorded and up 4% year-on-year, with a combined turnover of €2.1 billion in 2023, up 14% compared to the previous year.
In terms of business model, Catalan startups are dedicated to the health sector (6.9%), business services and software (15.2%), ICT and mobile (5.7%), food (5.2%) and sustainability and energy (5%). Also of note are fintech (4.8%), travel and leisure (4.4%), educational technologies (3.8%) and those dedicated to digital content and media (3.6%).
Barcelona has become a strategic point for startups in different sectors, consolidating itself as the best ecosystem in the EU to create a startup and the second most preferred startup hub for founders in the European Union.
Education and Investigation
Barcelona is also home to world-class educational and research institutions. As ‘Meet Barcelona‘ highlights, the city hosts prestigious business schools, including EADA Business School, with a strong emphasis on innovation and academic excellence, backed by EQUIS, AACSB and AMBA accreditations, which guarantee exceptional quality according to strict international standards, both in terms of training and facilities, as well as the services available for participants.
International Community
Barcelona’s international community is an integral part of its appeal. It attracts a diverse community of students and professionals from all over the world who find the city a place of opportunities. High-profile events such as the ‘Barcelona International Community Day‘ provide a unique platform for networking, collaboration and cultural exchange.
EADA Business School with its programmes ranging from Undergraduate Programmes, Executive Education and International Masters to MBA and DBA. It offers you the opportunity to be part of this global community while achieving a high quality education.
Life quality
Beyond its excellence in innovation, education and technology, Barcelona offers equality, security and an exceptional life quality. From its Mediterranean climate, with more than 2,800 hours of sunshine a year, and its renowned gastronomy, to its cultural scene, with 56 museums, stunning UNESCO World Heritage-listed architecture and unparalleled sea and mountain views. It is an ideal destination for those seeking a balance between study and leisure.
In terms of sustainability, Barcelona has become a testbed for companies such as Cisco Systems and Microsoft to study smart traffic lights, recycling bin sensors, domestic gas and water meters and LED street lighting.
You, Barcelona and EADA Business School
EADA is proud to be the only top-ranked business school located in the cosmopolitan centre of Barcelona. An entrepreneurial and well-connected city that is positioned as one of the best cities in the world for students, making it the perfect place to expand your network and boost your professional career.
We know that while your learning starts in the EADA classroom, it doesn’t end there. That’s why we’ve created events like the International Business Immersion Week, where you’ll be immersed in Barcelona’s world-renowned entrepreneurial ecosystem, from startups like Glovo and Belvo to multinationals like HP and Amazon.
Barcelona offers a dynamic and stimulating environment for those who want to enjoy their educational and professional experience. Its culture, opportunities for innovation and quality of life make it one of the best European cities in which to study. As Gaudí said, “One of the best things in life is to work at ease”.