Consortia are public-sector bodies, with their own and distinct legal personality, created by different Public Administrations or entities that are part of the public sector, among themselves or with the participation of private companies, to carry out activities of common interest to all of them within their remits.
Consortia can carry out activities to promote, provide or manage public services and any other services provided for in the law. In this regard, and in order to promote scientific cooperation with other administrations, the State Administration participates in numerous consortia that carry out R&D&I activities in outstanding scientific areas. These consortia are created by agreement, after having been authorised by law. In addition, the establishment agreement requires prior authorisation from the Council of Ministers.