Innovation Department will commission Ineca to conduct an investigation to determine the needs of Alicante companies regarding artificial intelligence and to analyze the best way to access knowledge transfer for implementing this technology in their business operations.
The consultant explained this approach with Nuria Montes speaking on Thursday after meeting with about thirty members of the organization on their Terra Natura premises. The discussion highlighted a critique of the central government’s level of investment in the province and called for changes to support local growth.
The councilor emphasized that the collaboration with Ineca aims to map the needs of firms regarding artificial intelligence while also helping companies access existing specialized resources. By identifying practical success stories, the initiative seeks to apply those lessons to other local firms to boost competitiveness and resilience in the market.
During the briefing, Montes also voiced strong backing for Ineca’s key demands, especially the call for greater government investment in the province. The official pointed out that Alicante remains one of Spain’s most productive regions yet receives disproportionately low public funds, a gap that should be addressed promptly for balanced regional development.
In addition to this, the minister outlined several strategic actions for Ineca members. The focus includes plans to address shortages of qualified personnel, promote sustainability, and implement the Simplifica Plan to reduce bureaucratic burdens on businesses. The minister argued that planned tax relief would enable more opportunities for investment and growth, underscoring that the Valencian Community is open to entrepreneurs and business ventures.
“Absolute harmony”
On his side, the Ineca chairman, Nacho Amirola, described a sense of absolute harmony with the new leadership and expressed confidence in tackling long-standing challenges. The conversation focused on industrial land availability, ways to increase revenue, workforce development, and ongoing innovation. The remarks stressed a prompt and responsible approach to policy changes and investment decisions that can lift local competitiveness.
Amirola urged the minister to accelerate policies that raise the province’s productive capacity. The plan centers on aligning governance with the needs of the business community and ensuring that actions translate into tangible gains for firms across Alicante.
The head of the Alicante think tank noted that recent studies have repeatedly highlighted concerns like data loss and uneven progress. He pointed out that per capita income today lags behind the national average, and both the industrial and agricultural sectors face annual declines. The focus then shifts to reviving critical areas such as tourism and real estate, sectors historically hit hard by downturns, and restoring competitiveness to match national trends given their contribution to GDP and employment.
Valencia leaves Alicante behind in the digital economy race
As the discussion progressed, the head of the institute emphasized the importance of setting clear goals and committing to the necessary means to reach them. Amirola reminded Montes that Madrid needs convincing demonstrations of progress, citing critical infrastructure priorities such as the Torrellano bypass, enhanced rail links to the airport, and a robust rail connection infrastructure for the airport. The aim is to secure these projects within the General State Budgets and to advance key investments, including a second runway and expanded road and rail capacity, along with the completion of major intercity connections and essential water infrastructure enhancements.