Donostia/San Sebastián is making a strong mark on the global science and innovation map: it ranks among the 200 most important scientific cities internationally and is fourth in Spain according to Nature. In the city, 22 out of every 1,000 inhabitants are research staff—well above the national average of 4.6.

With an annual investment of 3.7% of GDP in R&D&I – higher than the European average of 2.27% – equivalent to €365.4 million per year, and a network of 124 companies active in innovation and 6,800 specialised professionals – 46.6% of whom are women – San Sebastián has consolidated a highly competitive scientific structure. Furthermore, 35% of the city’s employment is concentrated in knowledge-intensive sectors, demonstrating the strong orientation of the local economic fabric towards high value-added activities.

Furthermore, Donostia boasts world-class scientific, technological and medical centres, integrated into an ecosystem of talent and innovation that gives it a solid international standing.

This environment of excellence is reinforced by the presence of two Nobel Prize-winning scientists, Albert Fert and George Smoot. The work of these international leaders raises the prestige of the local scientific community, which excels in areas such as bioscience, nanoscience, advanced materials, smart mobility, artificial intelligence and quantum technologies, and consolidates San Sebastián as a leading destination for high-level scientific meetings.

A recent milestone that has further strengthened this position is the launch of IBM Quantum System Two, the first quantum supercomputer of its kind in Europe and the third in the world, with applications in artificial intelligence, innovative materials and biotechnology.