CDTI Innovación Launches the 2026 Science and Innovation Missions Call
In a significant move to bolster Spain’s research and development landscape, CDTI Innovación, the innovation agency under the Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities, has unveiled the 2026 call for Science and Innovation Missions. This initiative is designed to support strategic pre-competitive research projects that address critical challenges facing the Spanish economy. By fostering impactful research, the program aims to enhance the technological and knowledge base of companies while promoting public-private cooperation in research, development, and innovation (R&D&I).
Funding Overview
The 2026 call for proposals comes with a robust budget of €60 million in grants. Notably, a substantial portion of this funding is earmarked for specific challenge missions. At least €20 million will be allocated to the mission titled “Towards a More Efficient and Resilient Aeronautics Sector,” while €5 million is dedicated to “Women’s Health within the Framework of Biomedical Research Focused on Diseases with Greater Impact on Women.” This targeted funding reflects a commitment to addressing pressing societal issues through scientific inquiry.
Historical Context
The Science and Innovation Missions program has a proven track record, having funded 168 projects over its previous five editions. With a total of €467 million in grants and a mobilized budget of €695 million, the program has engaged 688 companies, including 450 SMEs, and collaborated with over 140 knowledge-generating centers. This history underscores the program’s effectiveness in driving innovation and collaboration across various sectors.
Identified Challenge Missions for 2026
For the 2026 edition, CDTI has identified seven key missions aligned with the national challenges outlined in the 2024–2027 Strategic Plan. These missions are:
- Development of a stable, flexible, and resilient energy system with robust and reliable networks.
- Towards a more efficient, sustainable, and resilient aeronautics sector.
- New scientific capabilities against multidrug-resistant microorganisms and other future challenges.
- New capabilities to advance strategic autonomy in security and defense.
- Women’s health: biomedical research aimed at reducing gender inequalities in this field.
- Food sovereignty in Spain: a sector focused on efficiency, quality, sustainability, and food security.
- Affordable, sustainable, and rapidly deployable housing through industrialized and digitalized construction.
These missions were selected through a collaborative process involving public and private stakeholders, ensuring that the initiatives are relevant and impactful.
Participatory Selection Process
A standout feature of this year’s call is the participatory selection process. CDTI engaged over 360 participants from various sectors, including technology platforms and business associations, in a series of dialogue sessions. This collaborative approach allowed stakeholders to assess and prioritize the proposed missions, enhancing the program’s relevance and effectiveness. The integration of industrial, socioeconomic, and strategic priorities identified by different ministries further strengthens the foundation of these missions.
About CDTI Innovación
The Centre for the Development of Technology and Innovation (CDTI E.P.E.) serves as Spain’s innovation agency, dedicated to promoting technological innovation within the business sector. Its mission is to transform scientific and technological knowledge into sustainable and inclusive growth for the Spanish economy. In 2025, CDTI provided over €2 billion in support to Spanish companies and startups, demonstrating its commitment to fostering innovation and competitiveness.
Additional Resources
For those interested in learning more about CDTI Innovación and the 2026 Science and Innovation Missions, further information can be found on their official website and social media platforms:
- Website: CDTI Innovación
- LinkedIn: CDTI on LinkedIn
- Twitter: CDTI on X
- YouTube: CDTI Official Channel
This initiative represents a significant step forward in addressing Spain’s strategic challenges through innovation and collaboration, setting the stage for impactful research and development in the years to come.
