Madrid, February 10 – Madrid’s Vice Mayor, Inma Sanz, emphasized the city’s “talent generation and attraction,” its “capacity for innovation, and its technological leadership” during the inauguration of the ‘Tech Transfer’ event by Madrid Innovation. The event, also attended by the Delegate for Economy, Innovation and Finance, Engracia Hidalgo, and the Councillor Delegate for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Ángel Niño, highlighted the importance of collaboration in the technology transfer ecosystem.
Madrid’s Support for Technology Transfer and Entrepreneurship
Sanz underscored the significant impact of the Madrid City Council’s Program for Support of Technology Transfer in Universities and Research Centers. This initiative provides funding for the creation of spin-offs and entrepreneurial projects within public universities, their associated foundations, science parks, and public research organizations. “The environment of technology transfer speaks to the value of collaboration, something that aligns very well with Madrid’s personality,” Sanz stated.
Currently in its fifth edition, the program has positively influenced 388 projects and facilitated the establishment of 40 new companies, with an additional 18 expected to be formed soon. These projects span various innovative fields, including biotechnology, social care, digitalization, environmental solutions, robotics, and the future of food.
The program has also benefited over 340 researchers, resulting in 141 registered patents and trademarks. These figures, according to Sanz, demonstrate the “continued support of the Madrid City Council for knowledge transfer.”
Special Recognition for Technology Transfer
During the ‘Tech Transfer’ event, a new special distinction for Technology Transfer by Madrid Innovation was introduced. This category aims to acknowledge the degree of innovation, commercial viability, and societal contribution of spin-offs that have participated in the municipal program. The objective is to further connect the academic and research sectors with the job market.
Sanz reiterated the City Council’s “commitment and catalytic role,” led by the Economy, Innovation and Finance department of the current government team. She highlighted five years of municipal funding for projects, ensuring that “the fruits of scientific and research talent are transformed into useful products and services for society.”
Complementary Initiatives for Innovation
In addition to the technology transfer program, the Madrid City Council employs several other initiatives to foster innovation. These include the use of Public Procurement of Innovation as a lever to act as a first client for disruptive technologies, the Sandbox Madrid as an urban laboratory for real-world experimentation, and open innovation programs like DesafIA, which connect startups with large corporations and the municipal institution itself.
The city’s commitment to innovation is further complemented by the Margarita Salas Awards, which have recognized doctoral theses for their scientific and social impact for six editions. Furthermore, a network of innovation centers and incubators provides spaces for projects to grow, fostering knowledge sharing and experience exchange.
These comprehensive efforts reflect Madrid’s strategic vision to consolidate its position as a leading hub for innovation and technology, driving economic growth and societal progress through collaboration and the practical application of scientific research.
Source: https://www.madrid.es/portales/munimadrid/es/Inicio/Actualidad/Noticias/Sanz-destaca-el-talento-que-genera-y-atrae-Madrid-su-capacidad-de-innovacion-y-su-liderazgo-tecnologico/?vgnextfmt=default&vgnextoid=b7e60ced2b74c910VgnVCM200000f921e388RCRD&vgnextchannel=a12149fa40ec9410VgnVCM100000171f5a0aRCRD
