The University of Barcelona, through StartUB!, and EIT Digital have successfully concluded the first edition of UPBEAT, an international summer school focused on digital entrepreneurship with a direct impact on people’s well-being.
Innovation for Human Well-being
During two intensive weeks, from July 7th to 18th, 2025, more than 30 participants from various countries gathered in Barcelona to devise and develop innovative technological solutions in the field of Digital Wellbeing. The program, designed and implemented by StartUB!, offered intensive training based on agile methodologies, hands-on learning, and real-world challenges. The goal: to accelerate the creation of technology startups focused on health, emotional well-being, and digital sustainability.
Key Themes Driving the Future:
- Artificial Intelligence and Big Data applied to digital health.
- Ethics, Privacy, and Responsibility in the use of emerging technologies.
- Telemedicine and AR/VR for rehabilitation and medical training.
- User-focused UX/UI Design applied to health.
- Business Models and Funding Strategies for startups in the sector.
A Unique and Inspiring Educational Experience
The participants enjoyed an immersive experience that combined:
- Practical Learning with real challenges from the digital health and well-being sector.
- Specialized Mentorship and networking opportunities with ecosystem leaders.
- Accelerated Development of entrepreneurial ideas with support for viable business models.
- An Inspiring Immersion in Barcelona, one of Europe’s most dynamic innovation hubs.
UPBEAT also acted as a powerful platform for connecting with the local ecosystem. The teams had the opportunity to visit innovation hubs like the Barcelona Health Hub and were supported by more than 23 experts from the public and private sectors, including professionals from companies like Roche and Nestlé, as well as researchers from the University of Barcelona and facilitators from StartUB!.
A Protagonist’s Testimonial:
“Barcelona is a city that truly values well-being, human connection, and community. Visiting inspiring places like the Barcelona & Madrid Health Hub and working every day at StartUB! University of Barcelona reinforced this feeling even more, showing me that there are real support systems for people committed to changing the world.”—Dario Jauregui Lankenau, software developer and UPBEAT participant
The program concluded with a project presentation day before a multidisciplinary jury, which assessed the viability, creativity, and impact potential of the proposals. The teams demonstrated a remarkable ability to combine technology, user-centered design, and a clear social purpose.
With this initiative, the University of Barcelona solidifies its role as a leader in entrepreneurship and innovation training and reaffirms its commitment to responsible digital transformation.
About EIT Digital:
EIT Digital leads Europe’s leading open digital innovation ecosystem, driving disruptive science and technological entrepreneurship with over 350 partners. More information: https://www.eitdigital.eu/ecosystem/
About StartUB!:
StartUB! is the innovation and entrepreneurship unit of the University of Barcelona, with the mission of developing the entrepreneurial potential of its university community. In the last five years, it has supported over 300 projects and mobilized 20 million euros in funding. More information: https://startub.ub.edu/ca/nosaltres/