Catalonia and Flanders collaborate to improve the startup ecosystem

The collaboration between Catalonia and Flanders is on the threshold of transforming the business landscape, as evidenced by the recent agreement between ACCIÓ – Agency for Business Competitiveness of the Generalitat de Catalunya and the Flanders Investment and Trade Agency (FIT).

With the shared goal of strengthening startup ecosystems in both regions, this initiative is committed to fostering a symbiotic relationship, facilitating the exchange of invaluable knowledge and resources between Catalonia and Flanders. Based on a commitment to collaboration, the agencies commit to coordinate efforts over the next two years, with provisions for possible extensions, in order to drive the growth of new local companies, catalyzing strategic alliances and investor networks.

Castellanos emphasizes: “Flanders has an impressive startup ecosystem characterized by a fervent dedication to R&D and cutting-edge technologies, attributes that we aspire to cultivate in Catalonia.” By highlighting the importance of establishing solid links, he envisions a path of collective growth and improvement for both ecosystems.

Along the same lines, Demunter highlights the importance of a culture of collaboration, where various strengths converge to overcome challenges and capitalize on opportunities. “By creating synergies between Catalan and Flemish startups, we unlock the potential to leverage each other’s networks and expertise, propelling ourselves towards new frontiers in a constantly evolving business landscape,” he says.

Simultaneously, in a parallel effort, Flanders Investment & Trade has also consolidated a partnership with Tech Barcelona, underlining its commitment to fostering technological innovation across borders. Miquel Martí, general director of Tech Barcelona, emphasizes the importance of strengthening ties with innovation centers such as Flanders, recognizing its role as a benchmark for innovation in Europe.