Madrid, 15 January 2026. The Conference of Rectors of Spanish Universities (CRUE) held a meeting today with the Spanish Chamber of Commerce to present the “Knowledge Transfer and Social Impact” project, a strategic CRUE initiative aimed at showcasing and enhancing the contribution of the Spanish university system to the country’s economic, social and productive development, while also opening up new avenues for cooperation with the business sector.
The project focuses on the capacity of universities to generate knowledge, innovation and practical solutions, facilitating companies’ direct access to research talent, results with transfer potential and collaboration opportunities that help improve competitiveness and adaptability to current challenges.
The meeting, held at the headquarters of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce, was attended on behalf of CRUE by Francisco Oliva, Rector of Pablo de Olavide University and member of the Governing Board, who leads the project. Representing the Spanish Chamber of Commerce were Antonio Abril, Chair of the University–Business Commission; Andrés Pereda, Director of Corporate Development; and Raúl Mínguez, Director of Studies.
“Knowledge Transfer and Social Impact” already brings together more than 200 projects developed within the Spanish university system. A significant proportion of these projects feature protected results and clear potential for practical application, reflecting universities’ strong commitment to knowledge transfer and to generating real impact on the economy and society.
“Knowledge transfer is now an essential component of the university mission,” stated Francisco Oliva. “Through this initiative, we aim to ensure that the research and innovation generated on university campuses reach the productive sector in a more effective, structured and accessible way. Our goal is to strengthen university–business collaboration in order to drive innovation, economic and social growth, and to make the most of scientific and technological potential for the benefit of society as a whole.”
For his part, Antonio Abril, Chair of the University–Business Commission of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce, noted that “knowledge transfer must be an indispensable task for both our universities and our companies. From the University–Business Commission of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce, we support all initiatives such as CRUE’s ‘Knowledge Transfer and Social Impact’ project, which seek to create meeting points between the university world and the realities of business.”
A Platform to Connect Knowledge, Business and Society
“Knowledge Transfer and Social Impact” is structured around a digital platform hosted on the CRUE website, which organises its content around three key audiences. On the one hand, research staff have access to a space to showcase projects with transfer potential and to establish contacts with prospective collaborators. On the other, companies can identify scientific and technological solutions applicable to their activities, as well as funding and cooperation opportunities. Finally, the platform brings the tangible impact of university research closer to citizens, highlighting its contribution to improving everyday life.
