Name:Esteban Pelayo Villarejo

Bio:

Esteban Pelayo is an expert in innovation, regional development, and knowledge valorisation with more than 25 years of experience in supporting businesses, public agencies, and research organisations. Since 2022, he serves as the Manager (CEO) of the Alicante Science Park (PCA), where he leads the strategic development of one of the most dynamic innovation ecosystems in southeastern Spain. Under his leadership, the park supports over 50 high-tech companies in areas such as deep tech, digital transformation, and sustainable innovation, offering services that connect research, talent, and investment with business growth.

Esteban began his career in technology transfer at the University of Alicante, later leading initiatives in industrial property and regional innovation during his tenure at the Development Agency of the Region of Murcia. He also represented the region in Brussels and subsequently directed EURADA – the European Association of Development Agencies – where he contributed to European innovation policy and interregional cooperation. Throughout his career, he has played key roles in designing and managing European-funded projects, particularly those aimed at promoting smart specialisation, industry-academia collaboration, and capacity building for regional stakeholders.

An agricultural engineer by training with postgraduate qualifications in intellectual property, Esteban brings together technical expertise and policy insight. He is an active contributor to European innovation networks and advisory groups, and a strong advocate for the role of science parks in scaling up research-based solutions that tackle societal challenges.

Country:Spain

Affiliation:Alicante Science Park

Research interests: Innovation Ecosystems, University-Industry Collaboration, Knowledge Valorisation, Intellectual Property Rights, Regional Innovation Policies, Regional Smart Specialisation Strategies