Catalonia solidifies its position as Spain's leading technology hub

Catalonia has once again established itself as the autonomous community with the highest number of technology companies and innovators in Spain. The region remains a national leader in innovation and entrepreneurship, thanks to a robust business culture and strong international visibility, particularly through its capital, Barcelona.

This conclusion is drawn from the Regional Report on Tech Companies and Innovators 2025 (PDF), published by Ecosistema Startup, which is one of the largest databases for startups and investments in the country.

As of May 2025, Catalonia has 2,351 active tech companies, representing the largest share of the 8,580 tech companies operating across Spain. This positions Catalonia ahead of the Community of Madrid (2,189). Over the past year, the Catalan tech ecosystem has generated 36,765 direct jobs and a combined turnover of €4.857 billion.

A Thriving Innovation Ecosystem

According to the Startups Report on Tech Companies and Innovators 2025 by Ecosistema Startup, among the 2,531 tech companies in Catalonia, 1,376 are classified as startups, 143 as scaleups, and 810 as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This number surpasses the;1,319 startups found in the Community of Madrid. Startups in Catalonia employ a total of 8,177 people and generate a combined revenue of €449 million.

Barcelona remains the region's undisputed innovation capital, with the majority of these companies concentrated in the area. It hosts 1,553 active tech businesses, supporting over 27,800 jobs and generating a turnover that exceeds €3.368 billion.

Catalonia, Leader in Spinoffs

Catalonia also leads the ranking of Spanish regions with the highest number of spinoffs, universities, or research-based companies, totaling 255. These are followed by Madrid (137) and the Basque Country (84). Of the 588 spinoffs identified in Spain, 336 are considered startups, 24 are scaleups, and 228 are SMEs.

Explore Catalonia's Startup Ecosystem

Catalonia is home to one of Europe's most dynamic startup ecosystems, with Barcelona as a key driver of innovation and entrepreneurship. The Barcelona & Catalonia Startup Hub offers a unique window into this thriving community. The platform provides detailed information on thousands of startups based in the region, including sector, funding stage, and international activity. 

Discover the opportunities within Catalonia's startup ecosystem by exploring the Barcelona & Catalonia Startup Hub.

Sources: Startups & Regional Report on Tech Companies and Innovators 2025