The Alicante province remains a focal point for the regional government led by Ximo Puig. A clear demonstration of this is the relocation of the Ministry of Innovation, Universities, Science and Digital Society to Alicante, symbolizing a broader push to decentralize institutions and strengthen the region. The department now operates from the historic House of Witches in the city center. Josefina Bueno, who heads the ministry and is a top figure in the PSPV-PSOE slate for the May 28 elections, reviewed the Consell’s achievements in Alicante over recent years. Milestones include advancing a Digital District, expanding the Port of Alicante, moving forward with the Ciudad de la Luz project, launching Elche’s “Factory of Learning,” establishing an Aging Centre, implementing the Vega Renhace Plan, supporting events like the Ocean Race, and positioning Alicante and Elche to host national agencies such as the Spanish Artificial Intelligence Supervisory Agency and the Spanish Space Agency. The department also celebrated the opening of a new Consejo headquarters in the former Post Office building in the provincial capital. The common thread is clear: spreading innovation across the entire economic fabric and boosting the Alicante hub’s visibility.
Josefina Bueno: “All the polls tell me is that I have to keep insisting on the street”
Organized by Club INFORMATION and the Ministry of Innovation, Universities, Science and Digital Society, the breakfast debate “Bet on Alicante” featured Bueno and was introduced by Marcela Fernández, president of the Alicante State Business Women’s Association, with Toni Cabot, director of the INFORMATION Club, moderating. Aitana Mas, Vice President of the Generalitat and Minister for Equality, together with Rebeca Torró, Minister for Regional Policy, attended. Representatives from PSPV and Compromís were also present.
Solidarity
Bueno opened by expressing solidarity with those affected by the Castellón fire and condemning a recent sexist homicide in Orihuela. She traced her journey from humble beginnings to active political life, then outlined future projects and new office spaces that would enhance the city’s cultural heritage and showcase it through Botany. Speaking about Puig’s second commitment to the city, the Valencian Community, and the province, she highlighted the regional innovation and technology ecosystem that spans the area, driving prosperity and future opportunities.
The Aging Center opens its offices in Elche this Friday
One of Consell’s major commitments in Alicante is advancing the Aging Research Center, aimed at making the province a reference point in longevity efforts. The project will open its offices in a building within Elche’s Business Park this Friday, as announced by Josefina Bueno in a speech at the forum titled “Devotion to Alicante.” She added that the Aging Center will place the province on an international map for an important issue, and it stands as a strong example of public-private collaboration that has already become a reality.
During the Q&A, topics included discussions about subsidies tied to the ministry. “Resources must be distributed with balance. There is still much to do, and I am committed to continuing that work,” she said, before addressing the potential creation of a second ministry in the province, such as Tourism, in the coming legislature: “Why not? I am not satisfied with a single office. Innovation has fueled economic, social, cultural growth and future commitments. The province should not stay in one place.”
Election questions were inevitable, with debates about how the work in Alicante by the Consell led by Ximo Puig would reflect on May 28. “We rely on facts, not faith. I’ve listed projects that improve provincial indicators and quality of life. Enriching the capital with new references will strengthen electoral support,” she stated.
As a result of these efforts, Bueno asserted that the regional government has “positioned Alicante as a linchpin for innovation both nationally and internationally, creating spaces where jobs grow, digital firms cluster, and knowledge transfers to the broader Valencian economy flourish.” Specific examples included the City of Light project, which had been hampered by prior mismanagement but was revived by the current Council; the digital zone, home to about 500 technology companies; and the Port of Alicante, which is envisioned as a hub for advanced technologies and a catalyst for AI-driven ventures. Plans also include the Alicante-Elche Connected Vehicle Certification pathway, a closed test track at Port facilities, and the adaptation of Amaro’s legacy vessels. A contract with the Port Authority was anticipated soon to transform the area into a shuttle and technology showcase space.
Universities
Bueno turned to the role of universities in the regional ecosystem, emphasizing the Council’s work to advance business and academic collaboration. She highlighted three state-owned science parks affiliated with Alicante and Elche universities, along with UPV in Alcoy. Initiatives to broaden access to higher education, including scholarships, a 30% tuition reduction, and a talent-return program, were cited as models for nationwide achievement.
In the second part, she described programs designed to spread an innovation mindset, such as “Territorios Innovadores.” She noted that more than 90% of Valencians now enjoy home broadband, arguing that digitization is a core instrument for overcoming social and regional gaps and that enhancing digital skills can help address depopulation and inequality among vulnerable groups.
Minister calls for stronger cooperation between the two public universities
Josefina Bueno, minister of Innovation, Universities, Science and Digital Society, urged a stronger synergy between the University of Alicante (UA) and the Miguel Hernández University (UMH) in Elche. The goal is to maximize the impact of these two campuses, located less than thirty kilometers apart. Speaking at the forum organized by the INFORMATION Club and the Consell Department in Alicante, she called the UA and UMH one of the region’s greatest assets, given their excellence across many fields of knowledge.