The Spanish Federation of Technology Centers (Fedit), member of TechGrow consortium, recently convened a virtual round table titled «Promoting Creativity and Innovation in Companies: Five Examples for Success,» coinciding with the International Day of Creativity and Innovation. The event brought together industry leaders to explore strategies for nurturing innovation and creativity within the corporate landscape.
Diverse Perspectives on Talent Acquisition and Retention
Participants at the round table shed light on the significant challenge posed by the scarcity of professionals with suitable profiles, hindering the advancement of creativity and business innovation. Notably, the intense global competition for talent underscores the need for proactive measures to attract, generate, and retain innovative individuals. Laura Olcina, Director of the ITI Technological Center and President of Fedit, emphasized the importance of nurturing scientific-technological vocations from an early age to address this long-term issue.
Innovative Recruitment Practices
In response to the evolving demands of the labor market, companies are adopting innovative recruitment practices to appeal to prospective employees. Laura Olcina highlighted the growing trend of candidates asserting their preferences and expectations during the hiring process, including factors such as work flexibility and alignment with the company’s purpose and projects.
Fostering an Innovative Culture
Another key theme discussed was the cultivation of an innovative culture within organizations. Participants emphasized the importance of establishing dedicated innovation teams supported by management and equipped with the necessary resources. Collaboration across diverse disciplines and backgrounds was identified as a catalyst for innovation, with companies recognizing the value of incorporating individuals from various fields into their teams.
Cooperation as a Driver of Innovation
The round table participants unanimously agreed on the pivotal role of collaboration with external stakeholders, including startups, technology centers, and universities, in fostering innovation. Ignacio Calvo from Acciona Construction highlighted the benefits of working with external agents to explore projects beyond the scope of internal capabilities.
Measuring Innovation Impact
Measuring the impact of innovation emerged as a significant challenge for companies. While economic value remains a crucial metric, participants emphasized the broader societal and brand-building aspects of innovation. Success was defined not only by immediate outcomes but also by the long-term evolution of projects and their contribution to the company’s reputation and market positioning.
Access the full recording of the meeting: HERE