Barcelona reaffirms itself as a city committed to sport and inclusion, with the allocation of more than 17,500 scholarships for sports activities outside school hours in the 2025-2026 academic year. These initiatives, led by the Institut Barcelona Esports (IBE), demonstrate the city council’s commitment to the well-being and integral development of young people. Here we will dive into how these scholarships are transforming the lives of many families and contributing to the social fabric of Barcelona.
An investment in health and social cohesion
The figures speak for themselves: 4.6 million euros have been invested to promote sports. This increase in investment almost doubles what was allocated five years ago, highlighting the city’s commitment to providing children and adolescents with access to healthy activities. According to the Councilor for Sports, David Escudé, this measure aims to eliminate economic barriers, ensuring that sport is available to all young people in Barcelona.
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Sport is not only seen as a physical activity. It becomes a vital tool for promoting integration, improving social relations and education in values. Here, sports practice transcends the simple fact of keeping fit; it is a platform for personal development, social inclusion and combating inequality.
Strategic distribution and equity
The allocation of scholarships follows a strategic and equitable distribution by districts. Nou Barris tops the list with 3,779 scholarships, reflecting a specific need in this area that has been adequately addressed. It is followed by Sant Martí with 2,788 scholarships and Horta-Guinardó with 2,282 scholarships. These decisions are not arbitrary. They appear to respond to a detailed analysis of the needs of each community, ensuring that adequate support is provided where it is most needed.
Interestingly, the program has assigned specific scholarships to students with Special Educational Needs who study in Barcelona but reside outside the city. This ensures that no one is left behind, making for true inclusivity. Furthermore, 80% of the applications submitted have been accepted, which speaks of good management and an inclusive approach by the IBE program.
Entity promotion and quality assurance
Not to be overlooked is the collaboration of 343 approved entities, which are the driving force behind the sports offer for the city’s youth. These groups not only supervise the activities, but also ensure that quality standards are maintained. It is remarkable that each year new entities are added to the project, as has happened this year, constantly raising the bar for what it means to offer quality sport.
The entities also play a crucial role in adapting activities to local preferences and needs. This personalized approach allows children and adolescents to find safe and stimulating spaces to develop their skills and strengthen their sense of belonging to the community.
Challenges and future prospects
Despite these impressive achievements, there is always room for improvement.
Looking ahead, it is clear that Barcelona is not only promoting sport, but creating a culture that values equal opportunity, health and social cohesion. This commitment is a hopeful example of how one city can use sport as a catalyst for positive change, inspiring other localities to follow suit.
Therefore, although there is still a long way to go, the direction is clear: a healthier, more inclusive and united Barcelona through sport. The bet has been made and it seems that the city does not intend to turn back.
