BASF and ICIQ host the third Innovation and Entrepreneurship Awards Ceremony

The event, which grants a total of €9,000 in prizes, aims to recognize and promote scientific excellence and talent in the field of chemistry in Spain and Portugal

BASF and the Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ) held the third edition of the BASF-ICIQ Innovation and Entrepreneurship Awards today at the ICIQ headquarters in Tarragona. This event has become a key platform for recognizing scientific and technological achievements in the field of chemistry in Spain and Portugal.

The ceremony featured Alícia Romero, Minister of Economy and Finance of the Catalan Government, who emphasized the fundamental role of the chemical sector in Catalonia’s industry and the importance of scientific research as a driver of economic and social progress. The event also included a keynote speech by Dr. Eva Ortega-Paíno, General Secretary for Research of Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities of Spain, who offered his perspective on the future of research in Spain and the importance of public-private collaboration.

The event gathered prominent public figures, including representatives from the Catalan Government and local authorities, as well as key actors from institutions such as Rovira i Virgili University, ICREA, the Chambers of Commerce, AEQT, and CERCA centers in Tarragona. This wide representation demonstrated a collective commitment to promoting scientific excellence and its practical applications.

During the ceremony, BASF and ICIQ highlighted the importance of research and entrepreneurship in addressing major global challenges in the chemical industry, reaffirming their support for projects with a positive impact on both society and the environment. The awardees in this edition were:

• Best Doctoral Thesis Award (2,500€): Dr. Javier Corpas Pardo from the Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM) for his thesis titled “Novel Pathways in Catalytic Functionalization of Alkynes by Merging Organometallic and Energy Transfer Catalysis.”
• Best Patent Award (2,500€): Awarded to the team led by Francisco Bosca Mayans from the Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV) and the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) for their patent “Photocatalyst for the Treatment of Fluids Containing Organic Matter.”
• Entrepreneurship Award (4,000€): Awarded to Matteco Team, S.L., for developing the next generation of catalysts and electrodes for green hydrogen production.

In addition to highlighting individual achievements, BASF and ICIQ underscored the importance of collaboration between academia, industry, and entrepreneurs. This synergy aims to foster a research environment that accelerates scientific development and contributes to a more prosperous future.

Carles Navarro, Managing Director of BASF Spain, stressed the importance of these partnerships, stating: “At BASF, we believe that innovation is key to solving the most pressing challenges of our time, from sustainability to energy efficiency. By fostering a culture of collaboration between industry, academia, and entrepreneurs, we can accelerate discoveries that not only advance science but also create a positive impact on society. Awards like these are vital to recognizing and supporting the exceptional talent driving this transformation.”

Prof. Emilio J. Palomares Gil, Director of ICIQ, expressed his gratitude to all participants, collaborators, and especially to BASF for their support in the training of scientists and for their commitment to excellence and innovation in this field.

About BASF

At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. Around 112,000 employees in the BASF Group contribute to the success of our customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. Our portfolio comprises six segments: Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, Surface Technologies, Nutrition & Care and Agricultural Solutions. BASF generated sales of €68.9 billion in 2023. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchange in Frankfurt (BAS) and as American Depositary Receipts (BASFY) in the United States. Further information at www.basf.com