Innovation is widely recognized as essential for the longevity and competitiveness of today’s organizations. Yet, only about one in ten universities actively promote projects that boost their market position, a finding shared at the Meeting to Unite Researchers and Entrepreneurs. This Alicante event, organized by the LAB Mediterráneo Foundation, highlighted the urgent need for stronger collaboration between academia and industry and for accessible public funding to fuel joint ventures.
The second gathering focused on a clear objective: to accelerate research, development, and innovation across the Valencian Community and to narrow the gap with leading regions. As LAB Foundation president Alberto Gutiérrez explained, the aim is to deepen cooperation between researchers and businesses. AccenT president Gonzalo Abellant echoed the call for better channels of communication so ideas can move more quickly from lab benches to market shelves.
The dialogue also addressed persistent hurdles in university–industry partnerships. Moderated by José María Gómez Gras, professor of Business Organization at Miguel Hernández University, the discussions pointed to technical and financial barriers that hinder effective execution of innovation plans. Experts stressed that alignment between academic strengths and company needs is critical for real commercial impact.
Nuria Oliver, director of Ellis Alicante, emphasized that cooperation between science and commerce yields social and economic value when partnerships are well designed and supported by shared risk. She noted that meaningful investments in research typically unfold over three to five years and require a willingness to experiment, iterate, and learn from trial and error. The message was that sustaining innovation hinges on a long horizon and a culture that rewards experimentation.
Damià Tormo, director of Columbus Venture Partners, cited the development of treatments for rare diseases as a tangible example of how the transfer of knowledge can address real-world problems. He compared regional ecosystems, pointing out that the Basque Country benefits from more agile administration and tailor-made training that directly aligns with business requirements, a contrast to other regions in the Valencian Community where funding processes and administrative pathways can slow progress.
At the event, Mary Carmen Vidal, corporate product manager for Dacsa, and Familia Martínez, corporate director at another firm, shared success stories where research and development led to tangible growth. These case studies underscored how collaboration between research groups and industry partners can generate new products, improve processes, and open up new markets.
The gathering was organized by a coalition of regional stakeholders, including the Valencian Entrepreneurs Association, AccenT, the Alicante Family Business Association, the Valencian Community Business Confederation, the Alicante Chamber, the Jaume I Awards Foundation, and the Universidad de Alicante along with the Miguel Hernández University. The event highlighted the region’s commitment to strengthening the knowledge economy through strategic partnerships, public funding, and a supportive policy environment. [Citation: LAB Mediterráneo Foundation and regional partners]