Unequal subsidy distribution has resurfaced around Valencia Innovation Agency (AVI) and its Alicante operations. The latest round of funding left a noticeable majority in the hands of Valencia, while Alicante received a fraction of the total budget. The split shows Valencia benefiting from the lion’s share, with Alicante’s share limited to a small percentage of the overall €47,209,000 distributed by AVI this cycle. The vice presidency remains with one regional faction, and the division of funds tilts heavily toward Valencia’s institutions.
Inside universities, disparities persist. Of the €9,379,800 allotted to Alicante, a sizable portion goes to two public universities in the area, while Valencia’s two main universities absorb a larger absolute sum. The distribution reflects a pattern where Valencia accounts for a greater portion of strategic funding than Alicante, despite similar levels of research activity across the region.
AVI’s discrimination: more aid for Alicante, but only one in five euros
One of the most debated aspects concerns strategic cooperation projects. A large share of the funding for universities in these programs remains concentrated in Valencia, with Alicante receiving a much smaller portion for its schools and research centers. The alignment between funding and regional research strength is questioned by the academic community, who note a lower funding success rate for Alicante in competitive calls.
Our innovation capacity exceeds the distribution shown
Inquiry into funding results highlights a gap between potential and realized outcomes. The university sector in Alicante argues that their innovation and knowledge transfer capacity outpaces the funding they receive. Several programs that reached top ranks in other lines did not translate into comparable support for Alicante, prompting calls for a more equitable evaluation process.
Very little money comes in compared to leading companies and research muscle
Experts point out that Alicante hosts substantial research strength and a growing base of technology-driven companies. Observers wonder why the inflow of funds has not kept pace with neighboring regions that boast similar or larger ecosystems. The concern is that the region could miss opportunities to translate scientific progress into regional competitiveness if funding remains skewed toward Valencia.
At each of the Community’s universities, staff are accredited by Aneca
The disparity conversation extends to the regional campuses in Elche and Valencia. University leaders emphasize that all faculties feature staff accredited by national recognition bodies. They argue that distributing funds by sheer regional size risks neglecting the relative strength and needs of Alicante’s universities, which are actively pursuing partnerships and knowledge transfer to boost local innovation ecosystems.
López adds that when funds cluster in a single area, the rest of the regional environment can be left under-resourced. The vice-chancellor warns that ongoing results from AVI calls could affect motivation and momentum for Alicante researchers if funding patterns persist without adjustments.
We don’t deserve a funding agency that questions capacity over years
The director of a local digital intelligence center voices a critical view of AVI’s approach. The claim is that Valencia’s dominance in funding decisions undermines the perception of Alicante’s capacity for innovation. The argument centers on the need for an independent assessment process that preserves regional anonymity to ensure fair opportunities across communities.
There is a lot of room for improvement in distribution to transform the production model
Business leaders in Alicante acknowledge progress in some company-funded initiatives. They note a notable growth in project funding compared with last year, yet stress the necessity of ongoing support from AVI and other institutions to drive a broader transformation of the regional production model. The aim is to align innovation with practical outcomes that strengthen the local economy.
I am not in favor of clashes between Alicante and Valencia, but a clear statement is needed
The business community in Alicante urges decisive action from regional leadership. The call is for a unified strategy that supports both provinces without falling into political bickering. Leaders emphasize collaboration, stressing that regional advancement should trump partisan concerns while pursuing investment and innovation opportunities.
Aid is the key to developing the industry and tackling the bankrupt economy
Labor representatives stress that increased funding in innovation is essential for reshaping the province’s economic landscape. They argue that AVI funds should reflect a broader set of criteria beyond geography, aiming to boost both universities and local enterprises. The goal is to expand capacity and reduce informal economic activity by advancing knowledge-based industry and sustainable growth.
Such decisions impact the reputation of local universities
Union leaders contend that funding choices affect the standing of Alicante higher education institutions. They advocate for corrective measures and affirmative actions that mirror efforts in other regions, ensuring that universities can attract talent, secure partnerships, and maintain a strong research profile.
Amid the debate, the Ministry announces a forthcoming review of projects and a focus on identifying standout initiatives. The department pledges to reassess canceled projects and select promising ones, with a plan to adjust criteria to better support both Alicante universities and regional enterprises. The aim is to balance excellence with broader criteria to meet more needs across the province. Political leaders respond with calls for decentralization and a collaborative approach that prioritizes regional development over turf battles.
As discussions continue, a mainstream political party criticizes perceived inaction, arguing that Alicante has been left in a subsidy queue. The public stance calls for concrete steps, emphasizing that regional development should not hinge on political color but on practical, impactful funding decisions that accelerate innovation and job creation across the entire community.