Barcelona City Council seeks to attract scientific talent with grants 2026–2027

The initiative, led by the Department of Science and Innovation, seeks to attract and retain young talent, both local and international. The objective is clear: to make Barcelona a competitive hub capable of securing European funding and generating new lines of research.

The grants, framed within the Pla Estratègic de Ciència i Innovació 2024-2027, are aimed at projects led by emerging scientific staff, who will have the support of one or two mentors. Measures to support work-life balance are also included to encourage more stable and equitable careers.

Each project may receive up to 80% of its cost, with a maximum of 80,000 euros. Funding will be distributed between 2026 and 2027 and will be conditional on demanding criteria: scientific and technical quality, feasibility and social impact, with a minimum score required to access the grant.

The priority areas reflect today’s major challenges: life and health sciences, technological innovation — such as artificial intelligence or quantum technologies — and sustainability, with a focus on the green economy and urban resilience. The call places special emphasis on projects capable of transferring results to real-world settings.

As a new feature, the direct connection with the local ecosystem will be assessed. Proposals that collaborate with companies, institutions or social stakeholders in Barcelona will be prioritised, strengthening the link between research and practical application.

With this boost, Barcelona seeks to consolidate its position as a scientific benchmark in Europe. The strategy is to attract talent, encourage knowledge transfer and respond, through innovation, to the urban challenges that already shape the city’s daily life.