Valencian Community Entrepreneurship Observatory (GEM-UMH)
Strategic intelligence, big data analysis and specialised consultancy to promote the entrepreneurial ecosystem and business creation.
TECHNOLOGY DESCRIPTION
The Observatory is a knowledge transfer platform established in 2004 that monitors entrepreneurial activity, attitudes and aspirations. Based on the rigorous methodology of the global GEM consortium, the Observatory transforms primary data into strategic roadmaps for public and private institutions.
The knowledge infrastructure is based on:
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Longitudinal Database (2004–Present): A unique historical series that enables the analysis of trends and economic cycles in the Valencian Community.
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Robust Primary Sources: Annual surveys of more than 1,000 citizens (adult population aged 18–64) and panels of qualified local experts.
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GEM Methodology: Use of international indicators validated by more than 1,000 researchers worldwide to measure nascent and established entrepreneurship and the framework conditions.
TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS
The Observatory’s knowledge is a fundamental tool for:
- Strategic Plans: Design of regional, provincial or local entrepreneurship plans.
- Impact Assessment: Measurement of the effectiveness of existing support programmes and public policies.
- Opportunity Identification: Identification of specific groups (young people, women, rural entrepreneurs) requiring tailored support measures.
- Training and Skills: Design of educational programmes based on skills gaps identified among the population.
ADVANTAGES AND INNOVATIVE ASPECTS
- Unique Regional Primary Source: It is the only project in the Valencian Community that generates its own direct data from the population and experts, without relying exclusively on administrative records.
- Global Benchmarking: It enables the entrepreneurial performance of the Valencian Community, its provinces and municipalities to be compared with any region or country worldwide that is part of the GEM network.
- Individual-Centred Approach: Unlike other studies focused solely on GDP or the number of companies, the Observatory analyses entrepreneurs’ motivations, fear of failure, intentions and capabilities.
- Policy Decision Support: It provides accurate diagnostics for designing legislation, support plans and territorial development measures based on evidence rather than assumptions.
DEVELOPMENT STAGE
Consolidated Model (20 years of experience). The UMH team has proven experience in developing strategic plans for the Generalitat Valenciana (2018–2023), reports for Provincial Councils and diagnostics on research-based spin-offs.
APPLICATION SECTORS
- Public Administration (Generalitat, Provincial Councils, Municipalities).
- Ecosystem Stakeholders (European Business and Innovation Centres (CEEIs), Chambers of Commerce, Science Parks).
- Business Associations and Young Entrepreneur Associations.
- International Organisations and Regional Development Agencies.
- Financial Institutions interested in risk analysis and market trends.
PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR
Ignacio Mira Solves – Department of Economic and Financial Studies