The Port of Barcelona receives the 'Startup Ecosystem Star 2025' award from the ICC in Paris

 

El Port de Barcelona He has been awarded the prize “Startup Ecosystem Star for 2025”, granted by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) in a ceremony held in Paris. This international recognition validates the entity's work as a driver of innovation and entrepreneurship, and was accepted by Carles Rua, Head of Innovation, and Javier Garrido, technical manager of the area, who represented the leadership of Catalan infrastructure in the global economy.

 

Leadership in energizing innovation ecosystems

 

La ICC and the consultant Mind the BridgeTogether with the committee of judges, they highlighted the strategic initiatives of the Catalan port. The international body particularly values ​​the achievements in creating a favorable environment for technological development, noting the Port de Barcelona as a role model for other emerging regions seeking to enhance their competitiveness through the blue economy and advanced logistics.

 

The award is not generic, but highlights the excellence of the port authority in critical areas of management and development.

 

Specific categories in which the entity has been recognized:

 

 

Recognition Category	Area of ​​Excellence
Best-in-class Startup Programs	Quality and effectiveness of support programs for emerging companies.
Top Talent & Research	Ability to attract talent and foster applied research.
Pioneering Innovation Policy	Development of pioneering policies that promote sectoral growth.
Visionary Public Procurement	Special mention for redefining public procurement in innovative environments.

 

 

During the event, which was attended by representatives of the international and business community, Carles Rua He stated that this award is "an incentive to continue working on promoting innovation, seeking talent, and developing pioneering policies." The executive emphasized his gratitude to the entire innovation ecosystem, reaffirming the port's commitment to "public-private partnerships and the sustainable transformation of the sector."

 

For its part, Alberto Onetti, President of Mind the Bridge, he described the Port de Barcelona as an "exceptional example" of public leadership in a strategic industry. Onetti highlighted the entity's multidimensional approach, citing key assets that demonstrate a clear vision for a smart and sustainable ecosystem: The innovation hub BlueTechPort; the activity of the BCN Port Innovation Foundation; active commitment to the fund Ports 4.0.

 

According to Onetti, by allowing the startups By testing solutions in a real-world operating environment, the port is "redefining what visionary public procurement means," establishing itself as one of the hubs Europe's most innovative maritime projects.

 

Key points and frequently asked questions about the Startup Ecosystem Star award

 

Which entities award the prize received by the Port of Barcelona?
The award is given by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the organization Mind the Bridge, globally recognized institutions in trade and innovation consulting.

 

What specific categories has Port led in this competition?
The entity has been recognized in "Best-in-class Startup Programs", "Top Talent & Research" and "Pioneering Innovation Policy", in addition to receiving a special mention in "Visionary Public Procurement".

 

What innovation infrastructures does the award organization highlight?
The port's multidimensional approach is valued, with specific highlights of initiatives such as the BlueTechPort, the BCN Port Innovation Foundation and their participation in the program Ports 4.0.