The Catalan ECG Association (ACFEBC) organized the first edition of “Innovalors”, a cycle of conferences towards a sustainable Catalan industry at the Citilab Cornellà Space in Barcelona. Entitled “Innovation for sustainability in the industry. Startups transforming the economy”, the objective of this initiative was to demonstrate the working hypothesis that companies that innovate through common good values are not only more competitive, but also more socially and environmentally sustainable.
The day featured the presentation “Why does innovation make us happy?” from Àurea Rodríguez, an expert in technology, who affirmed that 80% of the value of the most important companies in the world by market capitalization resides in assets that are not material. Intangible assets are human capital (people and values), relational (the value of the brand itself, reputation) and structural (data and technology).
The open event developed around discussion panels with experienced industry representatives to reflect and discuss on the challenges and opportunities of innovating for sustainability, startups transforming the economy, and the changes that the Catalan industry is undergoing in order to adapt to the needs, demands and values of the new audiences.
A lively open debate formed between the speakers and the public. Rich and inspiring outtakes were exchanged on topics such as the business growth dichotomy, strategies to align more companies with the Economy for the Common Good values (human dignity, solidarity, democratic participation or ecological sustainability) and tools, such as the Common Good Balance Sheet.
The Conference ended with the presentation of the Innovalors awards for best practice in Sector Revitalization and best practice in Care and Respect for Employees. The awarded companies also received a Special Mention Diploma for their track record as a Common Good companies.
Read full original post in Catalan or learn more about Innovalors.
