The GEM Report Launch Gala Dinner, held at a stunning venue – the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao – was a moment of celebration, recognition, and gratitude as we honoured outstanding contributions to the GEM community. These awards highlight the dedication of individuals and National Teams who have gone above and beyond in their work, contributing to GEM’s reputation as the world’s foremost study on entrepreneurship.
The following individuals were recognised by GEM Basque Country:
- Niels Bosma and Grégory Gueneau for organising the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Research Winter School 2025 in Bilbao.
- Izaskun Artetxe, Government of Bizkaia; Joseba Amondarain, Provincial Council of Gipuzkoa; and Imanol Cuétara, SPRI Basque Government for 20 years of continuous support for the GEM Basque Country Team.
- Aileen Ionescu-Somers, GEM Global Executive Director and Ana Fernández Laviada, President of GEM Spain, for their leadership of the GEM Global Network.
In addition, Alicia Coduras received the “Founders’ Recognition Award” for her role in supporting GEM Spain since it was initially launched and its development over the years. José Bayón received the “Visionary Leadership Award” for his vision and support at a key moment.
GEM Global handed out a number of awards as well.
Collegiality in Practice
GEM Romania was recognised for its outstanding collegiality and performance during the 2024 GEM Research Cycle, consistently providing high-quality work while meeting all deadlines. This award reflects their commitment to teamwork and collaboration.
Extraordinary Research Contribution
GEM Ukraine received this prestigious award for its extraordinary contribution as a National Team. Despite the conflict in Ukraine, the team pulled off an astounding achievement by conducting a record number of National Expert Surveys!
Longstanding Participation in GEM
Select National Teams were honoured for continuously contributing to GEM for many years.
- 15 Years: GEM Guatemala
- 20 Years: GEM Latvia, GEM Switzerland and GEM Mexico
Extraordinary Service to GEM
José Ernesto Amorós Espinosa was honored for his exceptional service as outgoing Board Chair, recognising his leadership and lasting impact on GEM.
GEM Global Report Launch Host (2025)
We extend our gratitude to GEM Spain, and particularly President Ana Fernández Laviada, and GEM Spain - País Vasco, for hosting the 2025 GEM Global Report Launch, with special recognition to Maria Saiz of University of the Basque Country, and Iñaki Peña Legazkue, University Deusto, for their invaluable contributions.
Exceptional Research Contribution
GEM Spain was also recognised for its exceptional contributions as a National Team, reinforcing its leadership in entrepreneurship research.
Congratulations to all the award winners! Your dedication strengthens the GEM community and helps shape the future of entrepreneurship worldwide.