The Region of Murcia is positioning itself as an emerging hub in the technological and digital field in Spain, driving its digital transformation through a comprehensive strategy that includes support for innovative startups and SMEs, as well as attracting large multinational companies in the sector. This effort has resulted in a vibrant digital ecosystem, recognized both nationally and internationally. In the past year, more than six major tech companies have chosen Murcia as their base, including ViewNext (an IBM subsidiary), the Japanese consultancy NTTData, and American firms Fortinet and CrowdStrike, which specialize in cybersecurity. Additionally, Stratesys is preparing to open a SAP center of excellence in the region, reinforcing the commitment to innovation and process improvement. The arrival of these tech giants is expected to create over 2,500 jobs, with the regional goal of reaching 4,000 tech positions in the medium term, according to the Regional Minister of Economy, Finance, European Funds, and Digital Transformation, Luis Alberto Marín. Murcia, with just over 1.5 million inhabitants, stands out for its entrepreneurial dynamism: it has around a hundred Innovative Technology-Based Companies (EIBT) and leads the growth of such firms in Spain. Two out of ten new EIBTs in the country are born in the region, where the digital fabric includes incubators, universities, research centers, and tech SMEs. The Murcian tech sector exceeds 200 companies and generates nearly 300 million euros, placing the community seventh in the number of tech companies, fourth in average revenue, and fifth in spin-offs. The digital development of Murcia is structured around the Digital Transformation Agency and the Digital Agenda 2022-2027. The Agency, a pioneer in Spain, brings together more than 350 professionals and manages an investment of over 200 million euros. Meanwhile, the Digital Agenda aims to mobilize 600 million euros in public funds and over 1.5 billion in private investment. Artificial intelligence is one of the strategic pillars of Murcia's digital transformation. The region has launched its First Artificial Intelligence Strategy, designed to guide the deployment of AI and position Murcia at the digital forefront. This inclusive and cross-cutting strategy involves the administration, healthcare and education sectors, businesses, researchers, and citizens, aiming to maximize the economic and social impact of AI and improve quality of life. Highlighted projects include the development of a digital twin of the Mar Menor, the application of AI in cancer screening, and the creation of virtual assistants to facilitate administrative and tourism procedures. “We are at a key moment of transformation, and although we are a small community with limited resources, our commitment to digitalization is strong and yielding results,” concludes Marín. Source: elespanol.com