On June 23, 22@Network Barcelona welcomed a group of students from Purdue University (USA) enrolled in the Cross-Cultural Management course, as part of an academic visit organized in collaboration with the Fundació UAB.

This session focused on the business perspective, highlighting how international companies and startups operate in the district and the challenges of managing multicultural workplaces.

The visit began with an introduction to the 22@ Innovation District and 22@Network Barcelona, showcasing the association's role in connecting companies, startups, universities, and institutions to foster innovation and collaboration.

The students then met Vaib, a Barcelona-based startup and winner of the 22@ District Innovation Award at the latest Barcelona Innovation Awards, organized by 22@Network Barcelona. Represented by Flor González, Sales Director, together with María José Castro, Sustainability Director, and Sofía Labatt, Sales Jr. Executive, Vaib introduced its platform, which connects conscious consumers with local businesses through a technology-driven solution that promotes sustainable consumption while supporting local commerce and generating positive social impact.

Following the presentation, students took part in an interactive consulting challenge, working in multidisciplinary teams to develop a strategic proposal for Vaib. They analyzed the business challenge, designed an action plan, and concluded the session with a three-minute startup-style pitch, presenting their ideas as if addressing potential investors.

Through initiatives like this, 22@Network Barcelona continues to strengthen connections between academia and industry, offering international students first-hand insights into Barcelona's innovation ecosystem and the value of cross-cultural collaboration in today's global business environment.