Catalonia’s 160 international tech hubs created 6,191 jobs in 2024 and currently provide employment to 34,869 people, around 22% up on the previous year, according to the third Tech Hubs Overview, compiled by Mobile World Capital Barcelona (MWCapital), with the collaboration of ACCIÓ (Government of Catalonia Agency for Business Competitiveness) and the Department for International Economic Promotion at Barcelona City Council.

The report indicates that the positive trend in the creation of jobs should continue in the coming years, forecasting that the number of workers at tech hubs is set to rise to 42,752 employees in 2026.

This edition of the Tech Hubs Overview includes a more detailed analysis of workforces, as well as the evolution of centres since they were created. The results as a whole demonstrate that the ecosystem is in a stage of consolidation as an epicentre for innovation and development, with sustained growth and a significant economic impact for the region.

In this respect, the report indicates that 13 new international hubs were opened in Catalonia in 2024, bringing the total to 160, which between them generate an economic impact of 2,879 million euros. These 13 new projects created 263 qualified jobs and had a combined economic impact of nearly 22 million euros. Some 88% of companies behind Catalonia’s 160 international tech hubs received support from ACCIÓ.

More European influence and talent as a key factor in implementation

The report by MWCapital notes that new foreign investment comes from countries such as Germany, USA, China, Brazil, UK, Holland and Japan. Even though the USA continues to head the establishment of international tech hubs in Catalonia accounting for 24% of the total, Europe has gained ground in the last five years to the point where 62% of hubs now come from a country on the continent.

Key factors for these hubs setting up in Catalonia include the capacity to attract highly qualified talent, the existing presence of the parent company and quality of life.

The report also notes that the most sought-after profiles for tech centres are software engineers, consultants, cybersecurity analysts, SAP, data analysts and video-game developers.

In terms of dominant technologies among the range of services at hubs, deep tech continues to grow, with generative artificial intelligence leading the way, as do blockchain and robotics.

As for employment generated by sectors, health and tech product development were the sectors that saw the highest growth in new workers in 2024. Between them, these two spheres account for 43% of the jobs created in 2024, equating to nearly 2,700 people.