The Basque Government launches three technology support programmes for industry, totalling €175 million in funding.

Speaking at a press conference following the year’s final Governing Council meeting, spokesperson María Ubarretxena reflected on the past year, stating: “While guarding against complacency, we are satisfied with the work delivered by the Basque Government.”

During her summary, Ubarretxena emphasised that “this Government focuses on the real priorities of the Basque people: healthcare, housing, education, the economy and employment, security, and self-government.” She noted that: “Key achievements include agreeing the Basque Health Pact, advancing the Housing Master Plan, securing a regulatory agreement with the majority of unions in Basque public schools, and launching the Basque Financial Alliance.” The spokesperson also noted support from key European leaders for the Atlantic Macroregion, which strengthens the Basque Country's position and ability to influence strategic debates within the European Union.

Technology funding for industry

The Basque Government has announced the first three support programmes for Basque industry targeting 2026. Focusing on R&D&I, these schemes fall under the Hazitek, Elkartek, and Azpitek initiatives.

“These programmes total €175 million and will support Transformative Projects, Strategic Projects, and Competitive Projects. Allocations include €119 million via the Hazitek programme; €47 million via the Elkartek programme for collaborative research conducted by entities within the Basque Science, Technology, and Innovation Network; and €9 million via the Azpitek programme for acquiring, installing, renovating, and upgrading research infrastructure and equipment. Applications open today on the SPRI Group platform,” said Mikel Jauregi, Basque Minister of Industry, Energy Transition, and Sustainability.

New appointments to the Basque Country Police Control and Transparency Commission

The Governing Council has today approved the new membership of the Basque Country Police Control and Transparency Commission. Comprising a Chair and five members, all positions are being renewed except one due for renewal in two years. The new appointees are: Enrique Lucas Murillo de la Cueva, Nieves Martínez de Antoñana, Marta Aldanondo Garaizabal, Santiago Ron Cruzelegui, and José Antonio González Saiz. José Julio González Zamanillo remains a member of the Commission.

Appointed for a five-year term, members will not receive remuneration for their work. These appointments take effect on 14 January following publication in the Official Gazette of the Basque Country.

The Commission is an independent body attached to the Department of Security with full functional autonomy. It investigates any conduct within the Ertzaintza (Basque Police) or Local Police suggesting a rights violation, acting both on its own initiative and upon request. Its goal is to strengthen legitimacy and public trust in the neutral, objective oversight of police activity.