Alicante, Elche, Torrevieja, Dénia and Onil have been awarded the distinction of City of Science and Innovation by the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities. The recognition is granted to municipalities that actively promote innovative local policies to transform their communities and address social and economic challenges.

The award allows the five towns to join the Red Innpulso network, which now includes 128 cities across Spain. The network encourages collaboration between local authorities to strengthen innovation, urban development and research and development initiatives.

In this latest round, Alicante, Elche and Torrevieja were recognised in the category for cities with more than 100,000 inhabitants. Dénia received the distinction in the 20,001 to 100,000 category, while Onil was included among municipalities with fewer than 20,000 residents.

Science Minister Diana Morant said it was a source of pride to recognise cities committed to innovative local policies that help solve problems and improve the lives of their residents. The province of Alicante has now strengthened its presence within Spain’s national network of innovative municipalities with five new additions.