The participation of CERCA centres at MWC26 and 4YFN has once again demonstrated the capacity of the Catalan research system to generate advanced technology, build new international collaborations, and transfer knowledge to industry.

Emerging technologies and advanced demonstrations at MWC26

Several CERCA centres presented projects and solutions that reflect the evolution of research in connectivity, AI and space technologies:

• i2CAT showcased 6G StarLab, the first European satellite dedicated to 6G research and fully developed in Catalonia, and highlighted the spin-off Volum Technologies, specialised in real-time holographic and volumetric communication.
• The CVC presented applications in computer vision with an interactive demo capable of generating 3D avatars from a photograph, linked to research lines in generative AI, multimodality, and 3D scene reconstruction.
• The CTTC became a meeting point for international stakeholders, presenting 5G/6G testbeds, advanced antenna systems and mission‑critical communication solutions. The centre also renewed its cooperation agreement with the Korea Testing Laboratory to progress towards 6G technologies.
• The IEEC emphasised the strategic role of the space sector, moderating sessions on the future of NewSpace and signing an agreement with Mobileheroes (Taiwan) to create synergies between the space and ICT ecosystems.

Deep‑tech entrepreneurship at 4YFN

CERCA centres were also prominent at 4YFN through projects and spin-offs that connect research with market applications:

• ICFO coordinated the Quantum Flagship Booth and took part in discussions on technological sovereignty and the development of European quantum technologies.
• The CRAG has celebrated the recognition of PLANeT BIOTECH, a spin-off founded by Ana I. Caño-Delgado and Andrea Giordano, who were recently distinguished as two of the most outstanding women entrepreneurs of the year in Catalonia by EAE Business School Barcelona.
• IBEC presented three deep‑tech projects —Nanobots Therapeutics, Drug4Sight and Lumiris— with applications in health, precision medicine and assisted reproduction technologies.
• Ecomemb, a spin-off linked to ICRA, also took part, specialising in sustainable regeneration and reuse of reverse osmosis membranes.

The presence of the CERCA system at MWC26 and 4YFN demonstrates, once again, the ability of Catalan research to drive innovation, strengthen collaboration with industry and contribute to the technological development of the country.