Over the past five years, Barcelona & Partners has played a central role in strengthening Barcelona’s position as one of Europe’s most dynamic hubs for innovation, talent and high-value investment. Created in 2021 by Barcelona Global, the agency was designed with a clear purpose: to attract transformative international companies and strategic projects that generate long-term economic impact for the city.
Attracting High-Impact International Projects
Since its launch, Barcelona & Partners has supported the arrival of 43 global companies that have chosen Barcelona to establish technology hubs, innovation centres or European headquarters. These include leading organisations such as Sanofi, Bayer, Veriff, Heetch, Cambridge Sparks, Delfos Energy and PepsiCo, among others.
These projects represent over €1.7 billion in investment and have contributed to the creation of more than 4,500 highly qualified jobs in the city.
A significant share — around 60% — involve decision-making or innovation functions, reflecting the agency’s strategic focus on attracting high-value, knowledge-intensive activities.
Driving Strategic and Future-Shaping Initiatives
In addition to corporate investment, Barcelona & Partners promotes and supports major strategic initiatives that reinforce Barcelona’s long-term competitiveness. A notable example is InnoFab, the advanced-materials semiconductor prototyping facility planned near the Alba synchrotron. This project not only strengthens Europe’s technological capabilities, but also positions Barcelona as a key location for deep-tech research and advanced manufacturing.
A Collaborative Public-Private Model
Barcelona & Partners works through a unique public-private alliance that brings together the city’s leading institutions, corporations, research centres and infrastructure operators. This collaborative approach ensures that global investors have access to the resources, talent and ecosystem connections needed to thrive in Barcelona.
The agency also helps facilitate cooperation between universities, scientific institutions and industry, creating a fertile environment for innovation, technology transfer and sustainable economic growth.
Expanding Barcelona’s Global Presence
Strengthening Barcelona’s visibility in key international markets is a core part of the agency’s mission. In recent years, Barcelona & Partners has led and participated in investment missions across Europe, the United States and other strategic hubs.
One recent milestone was the Barcelona–New York Summit, where the agency connected with more than 70 senior executives and investment leaders to present Barcelona’s strengths as a European gateway for innovation and business.
Looking Ahead
Five years on, Barcelona & Partners continues to accelerate Barcelona’s transformation into a global city of reference for technology, life sciences, digital talent, climate innovation and advanced industry.
With a strong ecosystem, a proven collaborative model and a clear strategic vision, the agency remains committed to supporting projects that drive prosperity, innovation and long-term impact for Barcelona.
