- The technopolis highlights its role as an economic driver and cutting-edge ecosystem during an event at the Department of Economics and Business Studies at the University of Málaga
The Department of Economics and Business Studies at the University of Málaga hosted the Knowledge Transfer Conference, a key event for the region’s innovation ecosystem. This forum not only introduced the IEBSociety initiative to the public but also showcased the high-impact projects that this organisation has developed since its creation in 2024. Such synergies reinforce the region’s role as a magnet for international talent and high-return investment, demonstrating that the local environment is a space where first-class professional development is integrated with the progress of the wider community.
As part of this event, a research paper on the economic impact of Málaga TechPark, authored by Fernando Isla Castillo, was presented. This analysis reaffirms Málaga TechPark’s significance as a high value-added environment and a vital hub connecting science, business and investment. Málaga TechPark currently hosts more than 700 companies, which generate an annual turnover in excess of 4.8 billion euros and employ more than 29,000 professionals. These figures underline its definitive position as the leading hub shaping the future of Europe.
Other highly valuable initiatives that are already transforming the province’s urban and commercial landscape were also highlighted during the event. These include the assessment of the strategic framework by district for the urban agenda, presented by Luis Ayuso Sánchez, and Alhaurín el Grande’s strategic commercial plan for certification as an ‘Open Shopping Centre’, presented by Sebastian Molinillo. Both projects reflect this ecosystem’s capacity to generate real solutions that extend beyond the physical boundaries of the park and benefit the comprehensive development of the region.
The true indicator of the success of these partnerships is the experience of the institutions that place their trust in this knowledge-transfer network. Natalia Pérez, Director of Communication, Innovation and Institutional Relations at Málaga TechPark, emphasised that one of the major advantages of working with IEBSociety is its in-depth knowledge of the local area, which greatly streamlines processes as there is no need to explain the scale and unique characteristics of the technology park. Meanwhile, Marme García Peña, Director of the Ciedes Foundation, has highlighted the effectiveness, administrative efficiency and results achieved, describing the collaboration as a mutually beneficial relationship for all parties involved.
Lastly, the manager of the Guadalhorce Valley Business Federation, Juan Pablo Cabrera Jiménez, confirmed that the change seen since the start of the joint work has been so significant that they plan to expand the model to five further municipalities this year. Through forums such as this, Málaga TechPark and the University of Málaga continue to consolidate a vibrant multi-sectoral ecosystem, demonstrating that collaboration between the public and private sectors is the essential formula for leading technological innovation at a global level.