Companies dedicated to AI in Catalonia will triple in 5 years

The study “Artificial Intelligence in Catalonia”, conducted by the Generalitat through Catalunya Trade & Investment (ACCIÓ), reveals a significant increase in the number of AI companies in the region.

In the last five years, these companies have nearly tripled, reaching 488. This represents a 60% increase in revenue, reaching almost €2.2 billion, and the creation of 14,525 jobs.

Albert Castellanos, CEO of Catalunya Trade & Investment, emphasizes that AI is creating jobs instead of replacing them.

In Catalonia, AI companies are only outnumbered by cybersecurity ones, totaling 495. Additionally, 44% of these companies are startups. AI contributes to 0.8% of Catalonia’s GDP, and the region ranks fifth in Europe in attracting foreign investment, with €475 million. Barcelona leads in startup financing in Southern Europe.

The use of AI in companies allows for cost reduction, improved efficiency, and competitiveness, according to Imma Rodríguez from ACCIÓ.

An annual growth rate of 35.5% is projected for AI, with a global market value of $1.85 trillion by 2030. However, challenges such as increased resource consumption and job changes are posed, and warnings about its geopolitical use are issued.