According to the Startup Ecosystem Index 2024 released today by StartupBlink, Barcelona remains the leading startup ecosystem in Southern Europe and ranks 38th globally, just behind major innovation cities such as San Francisco, New York, London, Boston, and Beijing. In fact, Barcelona is among the top 5 worldwide in five specific industries: 1st in both the Games and Pharmaceutical sectors, 3rd in the Internet of Things, and 5th in Cleantech and Travel.

This ranking reflects the collaborative efforts of private and public initiatives, startups, corporations, universities, research centres, and other institutions, all contributing to a vibrant place to live and work. Key events like MWC Barcelona – 4YFN, Smart City Expo World Congress, and Tech Spirit Barcelona have significantly boosted the city’s international profile, drawing entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders each year.

The report also highlights a promising future for Barcelona’s startup ecosystem. Policymakers’ positive efforts to implement startup-friendly initiatives, combined with the presence of established and notable companies, are expected to propel the ecosystem into the global top 30 rankings.

In Spain, Barcelona (38th) and Madrid (49th) lead the way, followed by Valencia (171st), Bilbao (303rd), Málaga (350th), Sevilla (354th), Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (401st), San Sebastián (428th), Santa Cruz de Tenerife (438th), and Zaragoza (460th). Spain is now recognised as the 15th most powerful country for startups globally.