The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), one of the world’s most prestigious universities, in collaboration with Bullnet Capital—a Spanish independent private equity firm specialized in deep tech projects—has recognized Málaga’s potential as a leading center for microelectronics.
This was highlighted during a meeting held in the city of Málaga between Tomás Palacios, Professor of Electrical Engineering and Director of the Microsystems Technology Laboratory (MTL) at MIT; Málaga’s Mayor Francisco de la Torre; Innovation Councillor Alicia Izquierdo; representatives of the City Council; and Bullnet Capital’s founding partners, Miguel del Cañizo and Javier Ulecia.
The meeting served as a platform to explore ways to accelerate the development of a strong and recognizable ecosystem that supports tech entrepreneurship in Málaga. Within this context, a collaboration proposal was presented, focusing on innovation, education, and entrepreneurship, with the aim of connecting talent and technology between MIT and Spain. This initiative aligns with the City Council's strategy to strengthen the city’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Moreover, the discussion emphasized that microelectronics is a key sector in the global technology race, and that Málaga offers ideal conditions to become a benchmark in the field.
Both Tomás Palacios and Bullnet Capital’s partners, Javier Ulecia and Miguel del Cañizo, reaffirmed their commitment to collaborate, highlighting Bullnet’s local track record in supporting tech entrepreneurship, with companies such as Bioherent and AGPhotonics. They also praised the established reputation of the Digital Content Hub, the Andalusia Technology Park (PTA), and the excellence of the University of Málaga in technological fields such as Microelectronics, Telecommunications, Computer Science, and Photonics, along with the upcoming establishment of IMEC, which will further strengthen the province’s positioning in the sector.
The partners at Bullnet stated:
“We believe it is essential to attract both public and private investment, launch startup sourcing programs, and give visibility to local success stories. We are convinced that technologies like microelectronics and photonics can make a difference and position Málaga as a leading hub in the sector.”
Tomás Palacios, in turn, emphasized that microelectronics represents a strategic opportunity for Málaga and Andalusia in the context of global competition for technological leadership. He stressed the importance of taking decisive action to position the region at the forefront of this critical industry.
Tomás Palacios is a professor of electrical engineering at MIT and Director of the Microsystems Technology Laboratory (MTL), a lab of around 500 people managing much of MIT’s research in microelectronics and semiconductors. He has received numerous awards, including the PECASE (Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers) presented by the President of the United States, as well as recognition from Intel, Samsung, NASA, DARPA, and others. Passionate about entrepreneurship, he is co-founder of three companies: Finwave, Vertical Horizons, and CDimension. Born in Jaén, he has a long-standing connection to Málaga, where he has spent his summers since the age of 10.
About Bullnet Capital:
Bullnet Capital is an independent Spanish venture capital firm focused on high-tech companies (software, electronics, semiconductors, photonics). Founded in 2002, it manages a total of €140 million through several investment vehicles. To date, Bullnet Capital has invested in thirty early-stage Spanish companies and remains committed to its investment philosophy of adding value and contributing to the day-to-day operations of its portfolio companies.
www.bullnetcapital.com