We interviewed Laia Crespo, facilitator of the TECNIO centers at the University of Barcelona (UB) and member of the Area of ​​Contracts with Companies and Institutions and R+D+i Aid at the Bosch i Gimpera Foundation.

Can you briefly explain to us what TECNIO is and what is its main mission?

It is a seal awarded by the Generalitat de Catalunya through ACCIÓ and which identifies knowledge transfer agents in the Catalan R&D+i system. These agents stand out for having different technological capabilities and a great deal of experience in R+D+i projects with companies and/or institutions.

Why is it important that the research groups of the University of Barcelona have the TECNIO seal?

The seal identifies these research groups as leaders in innovation and recognizes them in the eyes of companies. This way, companies can learn about the research groups that showcase these technologies and what services they can offer to help them.

What role does the University of Barcelona play within TECNIO?

The UB has been part of the TECNIO network since its inception in 1999. Therefore, we are a pioneering university in the TECNIO network. Currently, we have nine research groups recognized with the seal. ACCIÓ accredits research groups that meet certain indicators in the areas of relations with companies, contracts, collaborative grants, patents, whether they have created spin-offs, etc. Therefore, these are groups with a long history of experience within the entire knowledge transfer system, and most of them obtained accreditation when TECNIO was launched.

How are UB research groups supported to continue being part of TECNIO?

The UB Vice-Rector’s Office for Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Knowledge Transfer provides grants to intensify knowledge transfer so that research groups can carry out promotional activities, promote innovation, and attend fairs and conferences. This financial support is also used to co-finance the salaries of the promoters, a crucial figure within the TECNIO groups, as they establish contacts with companies and energize the group to carry out transfer activities.

The Vice-Rector’s Office launched the PRE-TECNIO program two years ago. What does it entail?

The PRE-TECNIO program is aimed at research groups that we have identified as having very intensive technology transfer activity, but that do not yet meet all the requirements to obtain the TECNIO seal. The main objective of the program is to offer financial support to these groups so they can carry out revitalization and promotion activities that will give them greater external visibility. In addition, they have the support of a transfer promoter who advises and guides them through the preparation process to achieve TECNIO accreditation in the future.

What message would you give to UB researchers who are not yet familiar with TECNIO?

To UB researchers, I would say that TECNIO is a seal achieved because there is a specific methodology for working on transfer projects. And this way of working is oriented toward companies and clients and supports transfer activities.

And what would you say to companies that want to collaborate with a UB TECNIO group?

I would emphasize to companies that they recognize TECNIO as a seal of great value. It’s a recognition that the research group has and certifies that it can offer them good service.

What is it like, personally and professionally, to work in this innovative environment?
It’s very interesting. We’re working with groups that have cutting-edge technologies and strong connections with the business world and institutions. The groups are very clear about how to transfer research to companies, and I admire their ability to transform research results into useful technology for companies. Companies are undoubtedly strengthened with the help of the TECNIO groups.

More about… Laia Crespo

The best invention in history?

Any breakthrough that has significantly contributed to improving the health and well-being of people around the world.

What would you like to see in the future?

A society that prioritizes and promotes equal opportunities.

A future breakthrough that scares you?

The development of artificial intelligence without clear and shared ethical regulations.

A role model?

I don’t have a particular one; it’s different people in my immediate circle (family, friends, professionals) who, by their example, have contributed to my personal and professional growth.

What could be done to achieve equality between men and women?

Education, policies, and visibility. There’s still a lot of work to be done.

Transfer is important because…

Taking research results out of the laboratory and bringing them into society, creating a positive impact on people’s lives.