5 Reasons to Choose Barcelona-Catalonia for Your Life Sciences Expansion

Barcelona-Catalonia has emerged as one of Europe's most attractive destinations for life sciences companies looking to scale and innovate. A robust scientific community, high-impact research facilities, and a strong culture of collaboration offer fertile ground for international growth.

With global demand for healthcare innovation at an all-time high, life sciences companies are turning to Catalonia to anchor their European operations. The region combines business agility with scientific excellence, offering a unique ecosystem that is already attracting the world's most forward-thinking players in biotech, pharma, and digital health.

From academic excellence to entrepreneurial dynamism, Catalonia offers a uniquely integrated life sciences ecosystem where research, industry, and innovation work together. 

If you're considering expanding in Europe, here are five compelling reasons why Barcelona-Catalonia stands out as the ideal location for your life sciences venture.
 

1. A Dense Scientific Landscape: 93 institutions, over 1,400 companies, and 2,285 startups

Thanks to its concentration of research infrastructure and institutions, Catalonia is one of Europe's most vibrant life sciences regions. The region has 93 research entities, including top-tier research centers, university hospitals, science and technology parks, and large-scale facilities such as the Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), Alba Synchrotron, and the National Center for Genome Analysis.

This ecosystem fosters high collaboration between academia, healthcare institutions, and industry. Leading facilities, such as the Biomedical Research Park and the Centre for Genomic Regulation, have helped position Catalonia at the forefront of biomedical innovation. Science rapidly translates into market-ready solutions, attracting companies focused on advanced therapies, diagnostics, and digital health.

With more than 2,285 startups—many in biotech, health tech, and medtech—the region has cultivated a dynamic innovation culture. Its scientific excellence is matched by its ability to attract competitive European research funding, placing Catalonia in the top positions, alongside countries like Switzerland, Sweden, and the Netherlands, in terms of output and impact.

2. The Place to Be for the Big Players: Global Life Sciences Leaders Are Choosing Catalonia

Catalonia's thriving life sciences environment attracts some of the world's most influential healthcare and pharmaceutical companies. Multinationals such as AstraZeneca, Teladoc Health, Bayer, Sanofi, and AGC Pharma Chemicals have all deepened their presence in the region, drawn by its skilled workforce, innovation-driven mindset, and excellent connectivity.

Barcelona stands out as a prime location for research and development. AstraZeneca is building one of Europe's most ambitious R&D centers in the city, backed by a €1 billion+ investment. Meanwhile, Teladoc Health has established its international HQ in Barcelona, a move that reflects the region's growing status as a hub for digital health and next-generation therapies.
 

3. Record Investment: Catalonia's healthcare startups and scale-ups attracted €350 million in funding

In 2024, Catalonia's healthcare startups and scale-ups raised an unprecedented €350 million in funding, a 55% increase from the previous year. This surge was fueled by a growing number of international investors, particularly from the U.S. and Europe, who now participate in the majority of venture capital rounds in the region.

Today, life sciences represent over 7% of Catalonia's GDP, with the sector employing more than 280,000 professionals and positioning the region among the continent's most dynamic health innovation hubs.
 

4. Catalonia in the rankings: 2nd region in the EU for pharmaceutical employment

Catalonia ranks second in the EU for employment in the pharmaceutical industry, just behind Lombardy in Italy. This leadership is backed by a strong manufacturing base—about half of Spain's major pharmaceutical production facilities are in Catalonia—and a highly skilled workforce.

The region's pharmaceutical sector is also a powerhouse regarding exports and research. Together with Madrid, Catalonia accounts for the vast majority of Spain's pharmaceutical output and innovation, reaffirming its role as a driving force in the European market.
 

5. Upcoming in May 2025: Health Revolution Congress in Barcelona

Every spring, Catalonia welcomes global leaders in digital health to the Health Revolution Congress in Barcelona. Held at the Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site, this event brings together startups, investors, corporates, and public entities to exchange ideas and spark new partnerships.

The congress serves as a launchpad for collaboration across borders and sectors. With Catalonia Trade & Investment playing an active role—through initiatives like the Open Innovation Challenge and targeted networking events—the congress is a key moment for companies looking to enter or expand within Europe's digital health market.

Looking to Expand Your Life Sciences Business in Europe?

Catalonia offers a compelling mix of a strategic location, top-tier talent, and a business environment that is built for innovation. Whether you're scaling a startup or relocating global operations, the region is ready to support your next move in the life sciences.

Get in touch with Catalonia Trade & Investment to explore the possibilities.