University of La Laguna Expands Spin-off Portfolio with Three New Tech Startups
The University of La Laguna has expanded its portfolio to nine spin-off companies with the launch of three new technology-based firms focused on anti-counterfeiting, robotics, and advanced material coatings.
The University of La Laguna (ULL) has strengthened its focus on turning academic research into real-world business. On June 3rd, the university approved the launch of three new technology-based companies, bringing its total number of spin-offs to nine. This move highlights a broader trend in Spanish higher education: moving scientific discoveries out of the lab and into the economy through sustainable business models.
Antonio Aparicio Juan, the Vice-Rector for Research and Transfer, noted that these companies are essential for ensuring university science has a tangible impact on society. The university will hold a 5% stake in each firm, which will operate from campus facilities under new rules designed to better manage patents and research results.
The three new companies are:
- Tenet LightKey: Led by Professor Jorge Méndez Ramos, this company uses award-winning luminescent ink technology to create anti-counterfeiting security systems for documents.
- Robotserv: Led by Professor Jonay Tomás Toledo Carrillo, this firm focuses on using mobile robotics to automate repetitive tasks, particularly within the primary sector.
- Zona 1: Led by Professor Gonzalo García Silvestro, this company sells nanostructured coatings that protect metals from oxidation, a technology already patented in Asian markets.
In addition to these businesses, the university’s Governing Council is partnering with IMETISA to launch two new research chairs. These will focus on artificial intelligence, telemedicine, and neurocomputation to help modernize medical care and training.
The university also announced several administrative and academic updates. To ensure students attend classes in person, the school is phasing out "mirror classes" for Tourism studies in Adeje and Nursing in La Palma. The change will take effect in Adeje next academic year, with a gradual rollout in La Palma. Other updates include adjustments to student capacity for the double degree in Nautical Studies and Marine Technologies, and the approval of a new multi-year electricity contract. Finally, the university has appointed Noa Real García as the head of the Secretariat for Student Support and Paula Fernández as the Director of Social Projection.