El Centro para el Desarrollo Tecnológico y la Innovación (CDTI), ICEX-Invest in Spain and Fundación I+E They presented the report Innovation Spain 2026The document seeks to attract international investment in R&D by highlighting the infrastructure, talent, and position of España as a strategic reference point for major global projects.
A benchmark ecosystem for international investment
The report Innovation Spain 2026 It positions itself as the definitive guide for international companies, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers seeking to understand the scientific and technological infrastructure of the country. This document articulates the Spanish value proposition around three fundamental pillars: Spain to come, focused on economic potential and human capital; Spain to stay, which details the conditions and facilities for the development of projects; and Spain to begin withwhich underlines its role as a bridge to markets of América Latina and the north of África.
At present, España It is the twelfth largest economy in the world and the fourth largest in the Unión EuropeaThe indicators show remarkable strength, with four consecutive years of figures exceeding [number missing]. 30.000 billion euros in foreign investmentThis trend is supported by a framework of world-class transport infrastructure and digital connectivity.
| Economic Indicator / R&D | Current Value / Position | Objective 2030 |
|---|---|---|
| global economic position | ª 12 | N/A |
| Annual foreign investment | >€30.000 billion | Sustained growth |
| Investment in R&D (% of GDP) | 1,5 % | 3,0 % |
| EU investment ranking | 4th economy | Top 10 global R&D |
Key competitiveness factors and emerging sectors
The analysis highlights seven key points that underpin the attractiveness of the Spanish innovation ecosystem:
- Economic stability: Recognized by international analysts with growth prospects above the regional average.
- Infrastructures: High-quality communications and transport network coupled with robust technological connectivity.
- Human capital: Prestigious scientific foundation and a growing critical mass of professionals in relevant skills STEM and digital.
- Leading sectors: Leadership in renewable energy, green hydrogen, biotechnology, pharmaceutical industry, aerospace and cybersecurity.
- Investment in R&D: Accelerated growth in the last five years, with the goal of doubling the weight of R&D in GDP by 2030.
- Favorable tax treatment: One of the frames of tax incentives more competitive of Europa for innovation activities.
- Geopolitics: Strategic enclave and natural gateway to transcontinental markets.
Institutional and business vision
Elisa Carbonell, CEO of ICEXHe emphasized that the institution is working to "reposition the brand Spain "Linking our companies, talent, and technology with excellence." For its part, Sergio Rodríguez, President of the Fundación I+EHe highlighted the dual impact of the investments: "Spain is a country with excellent conditions for innovation and research, for hosting transformative industries and leading the energy transition."
The closing of the event featured a performance by Juan Cruz Cigudosa, Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Universities, who defended the Spanish model as a "refuge of rights and scientific knowledge" resulting from public policies that integrate economic growth with social justice.
The report is endorsed by senior executives from firms such as HP Iberia, Ericsson y Alstomas well as regional leaders such as Salvador Illa (Cataluña), Juan Manuel Moreno Bonilla (Andalucía) and Borja Sánchez (Asturias). The Fundación I+E, made up of multinationals such as Alfa Laval, ArcelorMittal, Deloitte, Grupo Adecco, HP, IBM y Pfizer, reaffirms its commitment to generating quality employment and a fiscal footprint in Spanish territory.
Key points and frequently asked questions about Innovation Spain 2026
What is the main objective of the Innovation Spain 2026 report?
To serve as a strategic guide for attracting international investment in R&D, detailing the infrastructure, talent, tax incentives and sectoral opportunities it offers España , the hub global.
Which sectors are identified as benchmarks in the global economy?
España It stands out as an emerging hub in renewable energy, green hydrogen, biotechnology, the pharmaceutical industry, cybersecurity and the aerospace sector.
What investment goals have been set for the coming years?
The country currently invests 1,5% of its GDP in R&D, with the strategic goal of reaching 3% by 2030 to rank among the top ten nations in innovation investment worldwide.
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