Attention, investors: science equity is the next big trend
With the support of European funding and a growing demand for innovation, Spain has an opportunity to lead the technological transformation. However, it still faces key obstacles to maximising its potential
by ilaria iaquinta
Experts: Almudena Ponce de León, partner at TKL Abogados; Fernando Gutiérrez, partner at Bird & Bird and Montserrat Turrado, tax partner at Bird & Bird.
At a decisive moment for European technological sovereignty, science equity funds are emerging as key players in transforming scientific research into industrial innovation. In Spain, while progress has been made, the sector — which recently brought together investors, startups, and experts in Madrid during the Science for Industry (S4i) event on 29 and 30 January — still faces significant challenges to fully realise its potential.
Almudena Ponce de León, a partner at TKL Abogados, told Iberian Lawyer that within the EU framework, there is a clear strategic and geopolitical interest in fostering industries capable of standing out in a highly competitive global environment. The aim is to reduce technological and scientific dependence on third parties. Against this backdrop, Ponce de León emphasised the importance of promoting high-value sectors that also meet sustainability criteria. “To this end, European and national institutions have allocated a significant volume of funds to support the development of these industries through investment in innovative startups,” she added. One example of this commitment is the European Innovation Council’s planned investment of €1.4 billion in 2025 to support innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
UNTAPPED SPANISH POTENTIAL
Europe leads global scientific output, accounting for 30% of published research articles. However, Spain remains behind in investment in science and technology. According to a report by BeAble Capital and BBVA Research, the country requires over €100 billion to build a robust startup ecosystem.
