This distinction recognises cities that promote economic sustainability and a pattern of growth based on knowledge and innovation.
The distinction was created in 2010 by Order CIN/2502/2010 of 17 September.
The cities that have received this award form part of the INNPULSO Network of "Cities of Science and Innovation" (ARINN).
The INNPULSO Network currently includes 90 cities of all sizes that fall into the following three categories based on the number of inhabitants:
- up to 20,000 inhabitants,
- from 20,001 to 100,000 inhabitants,
- more than 100,000 inhabitants.
The "City of Science and Innovation" distinction and the INNPULSO Network have the following objectives:
- To recognise and promote actions carried out by Local Administrations in the area of Science and Innovation.
- To promote collaboration between city councils and networking and to serve as a model for other municipalities.
- To contribute to a change in the production model based on knowledge and R&D&I.
The "City of Science and Innovation" distinction is obtained by submitting a candidacy for calls made periodically by the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities. It is valid for four years.
