The Official State Gazette (BOE) has published the regulatory bases for the National Geographic Sciences Awards, which can now be consulted at the Order RTRM/486/2026 of May 4. Promoted by the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility of Óscar Puente, the intention is to recognize people and companies that have stood out for innovating in the fields of cartography, geomatics or geospatial information. They can get up to 15,000 euros per category.
The ministerial order, which was made official in the BOE of May 19, establishes two types of awards. The first of them, for individual professionals and the second for companies and organizations linked to the technological and geographic sector.
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As it appears in the official text, the awards are intended to recognize “the contribution and innovation in the field of geographic sciences and engineering, geomatics, cartography and geospatial information.”
The proposal is within the drive for digitalization and the strategic use of geographic information in public policies, territorial planning, infrastructures and digital services.
On the part of the Ministry, it is highlighted that this type of technology is increasingly gaining weight in areas such as mobility, the environment, risk prevention or the development of smart cities.
Two award categories
The call presents two main categories of awards, the first of them for leadership and excellence, for individuals and a second for innovation and technology for companies, associations, cooperatives and other private entities.
In both cases the maximum amount is 15,000 euros, although the amount will be specified in each annual call.
Requirements to request the awards
In the individual category, people with Spanish nationality or legal residence in Spain who have developed a relevant career in geographical sciences may participate.
For its part, in the category for companies, private entities with domicile or activity in Spanish territory that have carried out outstanding work related to geographic engineering, cartography or geospatial innovation may apply.
Among the general requirements are being up to date with payments with the Treasury and Social Security, not being subject to prohibitions on receiving public subsidies or accrediting the merits and work carried out.
Who will receive the 15,000 euros
The jury will take into account different criteria depending on the category. In the case of natural persons, it will be especially valued if they have leadership in collaborative projects, contributing to technological training and professional career in the geographical area.
For companies and organizations, the impact of the work developed for public administrations, technological innovation or the capacity to reduce technological gaps, generating business fabric, will be taken into account.
How to register for the call
Candidacies may be submitted directly by interested parties or by entities that propose a candidate person or company.
Companies must carry out the procedure electronically through the electronic headquarters of the Ministry of Transportation.
Individuals may do so both electronically and in person through the channels provided for in the Administrative Procedure Law.
The required documentation includes the application form, explanatory report of merits and projects, responsible declaration and accreditation of tax and Social Security obligations.
The specific submission period will be set in each call and may not be less than one month nor more than three months from the official publication in the BOE.
The final resolution will correspond to the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility and must be published within a maximum of six months from the call.