At iTEAM, through our Innovation Unit, we continue working to ensure that research goes further and generates a real impact on society. During this period, we have successfully completed projects INNTA1/2022/53 and INNVA2/2023/9 , funded by IVACE+i under the 2022 and 2023 calls, achieving the full operational consolidation of the iTEAM Innovation Office and strengthening a professional model of technology transfer oriented towards industry.
This progress has been made possible thanks to the commitment of a transfer unit that acts as a bridge between research, the clinical environment, and the innovation ecosystem. Some of the most relevant milestones achieved include:
- Patents and projects: We have made significant progress in the protection and valorisation of research results, managing 5 new strategic patent applications in areas such as advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), intelligent hearing protection, and efficient transmission solutions for 5G/6G networks. In parallel, we have carried out a comprehensive mapping of our technologies, prioritising those with a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) above 4 and high market potential.
- Strengthening of the innovation and communication team through INNTA1/2024/048 project funded by IVACE+i under the 2024 call: We have incorporated and consolidated two key roles, an innovation agent and a communication specialist, both essential to driving knowledge transfer and increasing the visibility of our research outcomes. This reinforcement of the team is improving the identification of valorisation opportunities, strengthening relationships with industry, and enhancing the strategic dissemination of our capabilities and results.: We have incorporated and consolidated two key roles, an innovation agent and a communication specialist, both essential to driving knowledge transfer and increasing the visibility of our research outcomes. This reinforcement is also aligned with a renewed branding and positioning strategy, which has contributed to a 41% growth in LinkedIn followers and increased media presence at regional, national, and international levels.
- Industry engagement: We have intensified collaboration with companies in the sector, establishing contact with more than 50 organisations and strengthening strategic relationships with key partners. This has enabled us to better identify real market needs, validate demand, and develop joint projects with industrial impact. Initiatives such as the iTEAM Open Day, the V5G Days event, and other industry-focused events have further helped bridge the gap between research and market deployment.
- Participation in funding calls and fundraising: We have strengthened our capacity to identify funding opportunities and prepare proposals, successfully attracting competitive funding through public-private collaboration projects aligned with strategic sectors such as 5G/6G telecommunications, integrated photonics, automotive, Industry 4.0, multimedia, security, and energy.
- Entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem: The unit has also supported the creation of new business initiatives, including the launch of the spin-off HYBPIC in 2025, with additional ventures currently in development, reinforcing our commitment to bringing research closer to market.
- Technology intelligence and strategic positioning: A key milestone has been the implementation of a Technology Watch and Competitive Intelligence system, enabling early identification of trends, opportunities, and competitors, and helping to guide our transfer strategy in alignment with market evolution
- Regional R&I ecosystem development: Integration of advanced innovation instruments such as Public Procurement of Innovation and the launch of new co‑creation initiatives with industry, reinforcing structured collaboration among key stakeholders in the Comunitat Valenciana.Administrations through participation in policy‑focused events and public consultations, as well as engaging in technological platforms and other structures that bring together industry, academia, and policymakers to contribute to their agendas and foster collaboration in R&I projects.
This success is a reflection of the talent and dedication of every team member who has been part of this journey. Their expertise and hard work have built the foundation that allows us to keep growing and making a real impact today.