Donostia, City of Science and Innovation

2025 Jan 16

Donostia / San Sebastián has renewed its designation as a City of Science and Innovation by the Ministry of Science and Innovation of the Government of Spain, being one of the 24 cities awarded this distinction. Donostia has received this recognition since the first edition thanks to the work and support of over 50 public and private entities from strategic sectors such as biosciences, nanotechnology, energy, and ICT. The capital of Gipuzkoa stands out as a pioneering city due to its commitment to local policies supporting innovation and its backing of companies with a strong scientific and technological focus.

A Preferred Destination for the MICE Sector

The robust structure of Donostia's innovation ecosystem, coupled with its growing activity in the MICE sector, makes it a preferred destination for hosting congresses and events specialized in science and technology. Donostia offers a unique environment for connecting researchers, entrepreneurs, and business leaders, fostering the generation of new ideas and collaborations.

A Consolidated Innovation Ecosystem

For more than three decades, the city has developed a clear and sustained strategy, making research and innovation one of the fundamental pillars of its development. This commitment has been recognized nationally and internationally, positioning Donostia among the 200 most important scientific cities in the world and in the top position in the field of collaborative science, according to Nature magazine.

A European Benchmark

Donostia boasts an R&D employment rate above the European Union average. Its focus on strategic sectors such as biosciences, nanotechnology, energy, and ICT has attracted cutting-edge companies and created an innovative business network. With an investment of €277 million in R&D, a 23% growth over the last five years (representing 3.6% of the local GDP), and more than 6,000 people employed in research, Donostia has established itself as a European leader.

One of the most significant projects exemplifying this growth is the IBM quantum supercomputer, which will be installed in Donostia in the second half of 2025. This initiative is a cornerstone of the city's strong commitment to science and innovation.