“Barcelona has what it takes to become a major innovation hub” by Simona Salsi
Simona Salsi, 29, was born in Milan, and lived in London, Shanghai, Dubai, Dublin, Australia and San Francisco before moving to Barcelona. She is currently senior innovation advisor at Mind the Bridge, an open innovation platform that provides services and products to companies and startups in local ecosystems. The company is based in San Francisco, and has offices in Barcelona and other leading technology hubs such as Seoul and Tel Aviv.
Why did you choose Barcelona?
I have lived in many different places around the world over the last 10 years, but after 5 years in San Francisco, I realized that it was not the ideal city to live in for the long term, and I considered moving back to London or my beloved Milan. Everything changed when I met the person who would become my partner and we decided to move to Barcelona, where his company is based. The city has given us a warm welcome and it is the perfect place in which to raise a family and pursue a career.
What are the city’s strengths?
Barcelona is a cosmopolitan and vibrant city that offers a plethora of different opportunities. It is already well-recognized as a technology hub, but it is continuing to grow and attract even more talent and innovation. Indeed it is ranked as the 5th most important European hub for startups (Mind the Bridge, 2022). There is a unique fusion of cultures and a dynamic entrepreneurial environment that inspires me on a daily basis. And of course, the wonderful Mediterranean climate makes Barcelona an exceptional place to live!
What still needs to improve?
The frequency and connectivity of public transport should continue to be improved. Furthermore, renewable energy and efficient recycling policies need to be implemented to improve air quality and environmental sustainability. It is also necessary to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship by encouraging companies and universities to work together, and by providing incentives.
What do you expect of Barcelona in the coming years?
Barcelona has what it takes to become a globally recognized innovation hub. I expect that in the coming years the city will continue to attract brilliant young professionals and foster a vibrant startup ecosystem. Furthermore, I am confident that there will be plenty of opportunities for foreign investment, thus strengthening the local economy. I envision a YES Barcelona, where limits are overcome and opportunities are maximized!
Where do you feel most at home? Is there anything you miss from elsewhere?
Having lived in several cities, I consider myself a citizen of the world, but I feel increasingly at home in Barcelona. If I had to mention what I miss most, it would be the cosmopolitanism of London, the technological effervescence of San Francisco, and the glamour of Milan. However, Barcelona offers a perfect balance of culture, creativity and quality of life; I feel at home in Barcelona and it inspires me.
If you are an expatriate living in the city and want to help improve Barcelona to attract more high-impact talent, you can complete the survey here: https://barcelonaglobal.civi-go.net/en/6th_international_talent_monitor
