BIST Catalysers is a new transformative innovation programme for BIST Community researchers — PhD students, postdocs, senior researchers and staff. Through a 92-hour training, participants will explore how to translate their research into innovation.
The programme fosters an entrepreneurial mindset, encourages comfort with risk, and empowers scientists to recognize and develop innovation opportunities in their own work.
How does the programme work?
BIST Catalysers combines intensive training, peer learning, and exposure to real-world innovation practices over several months. The full 92-hour programme includes:
- Core modules on business, patent law, startup funding, negotiation and startup incorporation.
- Interactive workshops on creativity, leadership, and entrepreneurial mindset.
- Fireside chats with entrepreneurs, investors, and healthcare professionals.
- On-site visit to a European innovation hub to explore best practices in tech transfer.
- Hands-on innovation project, where participants tackle real challenges and pitch their solutions.
- Closing ceremony to showcase the cohort’s work to the wider community.
Sessions combine BIST Catalysers-only activities with open events for the broader BIST Community, fostering visibility, cross-learning, and collaboration.
Upcoming BIST Catalysers activities
Closure Event. June 18, 2026.
Past BIST Catalysers activities
Fireside chat with investors. April 24, 2026. 10h-12h
Parc Científic de Barcelona. Sala Dolors Aleu.
Open to the entire BIST Community.
Company Incorporation. April 10, 2026. 10h-12h
Facilitaded by Arvor – Business, Tech & Science
Online
Open to the entire BIST Community.
Fireside chat with Entrepreneurs.
March 13, 2026. 10h-12h.
Sala Mir-Puig Elements. ICFO, Castelldefels.
Open to the entire BIST Community.
Patents & IP Law. January 30, 2026.
Led by ZBM.
10h-12h: In person session for the Catalysers fellows. Open online for the entire BIST Community.
12h-14h: In person session for the Catalysers fellows.
Sales Techniques. January 16, 2026. 9:30h-14:00h
Led by Grau Innovation Consulting.
Creativity. December 12, 2025. 10h-14h.
Instructor: Dr Iolanda Marchueta
Mind skills for enrepreneurs. November 14, 2025.
Instructor: Dr Iolanda Marchueta
BIST-ESADE From Science to Business course. October 13-24, 2025
BIST Catalysers kick-off event, October 3, 2025.
How to apply
Applications were coordinated through the KTT/Innovation offices at each BIST Community centre, and are currently closed.
These document explains the eligibility criteria and the programme schedule.
With the support of:
