Explore the second edition of the report on deep tech spin-outs in Spain, led by Mobile World Capital Barcelona with the aim of analyzing their impact in the country.
The report The Deep Tech Spin-Off Ecosystem in Spain 2025 provides an updated portrait of the national deep tech spin-out ecosystem, connecting innovation, technology, and public policies focused on economic and social impact.
An in-depth analysis of 1,007 active spin-outs in Spain
The study identifies 1,007 active deep tech spin-outs, reflecting a 3.6% growth over the past year. In terms of technological specialization, more than half of the spin-outs are concentrated in three domains: biotechnology (19.8%), ICT (17.4%), and health (16.7%).
A diverse ecosystem, concentrated in Catalonia and Madrid
Catalonia (28.2%) and Madrid (23.7%) are the two main hubs for deep tech spin-out incubation in Spain. Combined, these two regions account for more than 50% of all spin-outs in the country. Other regions that also stand out are the Valencian Community (11.1%), Andalusia (9.5%), and the Basque Country (7.4%), each with specializations aligned with their scientific and industrial strengths.
Universities lead the incubation of deep tech spin-outs
More than two-thirds of all spin-outs have emerged from Spanish universities (66.5%), with public universities acting as the main incubators (64%). The leading institutions in spin-out creation include the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (8.7%), CSIC (8.5%), Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (5.3%), Universidad de Alicante (4.8%), and Universidad de Santiago de Compostela (3.2%).
Economic impact of a growing ecosystem
According to the study, Spanish deep tech spin-outs generate an annual turnover of €1.4 billion. The analysis goes beyond aggregate figures, revealing significant variations in revenue depending on technological specialization and company maturity. The Energy, Industry 4.0, and ICT sectors top the ranking in terms of average revenue per company.
Sectors that create most jobs: Energy and resources, ICT, and Industry 4.0
It is estimated that spin-outs have generated more than 13,400 high-skilled jobs. Energy sector companies stand out with the largest average workforce, followed by ICT and Industry 4.0.
National missions: a compass for strategic innovation
The report identifies eight national missions that establish a common framework for aligning innovation with the country’s major social and environmental challenges. This analytical framework makes it possible to detect gaps, assess efficiency, and guide public policies for scientific entrepreneurship with greater precision.
An ecosystem with transformative potential
The analysis confirms that Spanish deep tech spin-outs are key players in the transition toward a healthier, more sustainable, digital, and sovereign country. Finally, the report proposes a strategic agenda aligned with Europe, aiming to strengthen knowledge transfer, co-investment, and talent attraction to address major societal challenges.