The city also benefits from a dense network of academic and research institutions, which are deeply embedded in its innovation ecosystem. These include the Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC), the Institute of Environmental Science and Technology (ICTA-UAB), the Open University of Catalonia (UOC) and the Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA, based in Girona). Their contributions range from systems analysis and applied R&D to training and policy advice. Sectoral platforms such as the Catalan Water Partnership (CWP) further promote cross-sector collaboration and export readiness, although they offer limited direct support for piloting or commercialization (SE3). Barcelona’s innovation pathway illustrates the value of long-term vision and strong public leadership. To fully unlock the ecosystem’s potential, the city must activate mechanisms that enable scaling – strengthening public–private investment flows, establishing cross-sector platforms and closing the gap between early-stage innovation and systems-wide transformation. Barcelona spotlight: The Catalan Water Partnership – a unique innovation enabler BOX 5 The Catalan Water Partnership (CWP) plays a central and unique role in Catalonia’s water innovation ecosystem. Founded in 2008, it serves as a multistakeholder cluster that brings together more than 170 members spanning the public, private and academic sectors. Unlike any national equivalent in Spain, CWP operates as a neutral enabler, promoting collaboration throughout the entire water value chain – from large utilities and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to universities, research institutes and government agencies. CWP functions as an informal multistakeholder enabler (E5), helping overcome structural fragmentation by coordinating innovation efforts and facilitating knowledge transfer. Its activities range from collaborative R&D projects and working groups to strategic matchmaking, funding support, internationalization services and regular knowledge- sharing events (jornades) that disseminate best practices and foster dialogue across the sector. By actively engaging SMEs alongside large players, the cluster ensures that innovation opportunities remain inclusive and scalable.Each year, the partnership drives more than 20 projects and it has positioned Catalonia as a global water technology hub. Its Gold Label recognition from the European Cluster Excellence Initiative underlines its leadership, while its work demonstrates how coordinated platforms can turn regional water challenges into drivers of systemic innovation. Water-BOOST: Enabling Innovation for Future-Ready Cities 31

Water BOOST Enabling Innovation for Future Ready Cities 2025