The Diputación Foral de Gipuzkoa has announced its budget proposal for 2027, which includes an allocation of 1.433 billion euros, representing an increase of 137 million euros (10%) compared to 2026. Eider Mendoza, the general deputy of Gipuzkoa, stated that this expansion aims to provide "certainty and confidence for the future" to the people of Gipuzkoa, particularly in the face of significant global instability.
Mendoza emphasised the Diputación's commitment to enhancing the social and economic fabric of Gipuzkoa, aiming to boost competitiveness and protect the local economy while generating opportunities for residents. The budget proposal was presented alongside José Ignacio Asensio, the deputy general lieutenant, and Itziar Agirre, the deputy for Finance and Treasury.
Key priorities and investments
The proposed budget focuses on three main priorities: promoting innovative social infrastructures for quality care, strengthening the business sector and developing future industries, and enhancing resilience against climate change.
Among the highlighted social and economic investments is the allocation of 14.3 million euros for Gipuzkoa Zainduz, which will facilitate the establishment of four new residential facilities for the elderly in Deba, Iraurgi, Buruntzaldea, and Donostialdea, adding a total of 400 new residential places. One of these facilities will specialise in care for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
Mendoza also underscored the importance of initiatives aimed at improving mental health care and supporting individuals at risk of social exclusion. In the realm of economic promotion, the budget includes 4 million euros to advance the Biofoundry biosciences hub in Irun, 6.2 million euros for expanding the Sustainable and Intelligent Mobility Centre, and 2 million euros for quantum technology initiatives.
Social welfare and inclusion initiatives
The budget for the Department of Care and Social Policies will be the largest, amounting to 687 million euros, an increase of 89 million euros from 2026. This funding will enhance support for various groups served by the department, with an investment of 937 euros per inhabitant, up 121 euros from the previous year.
In addition to the Gipuzkoa Zainduz projects, the department will continue modernising residential care facilities for the elderly, with a budget of 72 million euros for these efforts. This includes renovations at centres in Donostia and Eibar, as well as ongoing construction at facilities in Pasaia, Irun, and Elgoibar.
Further investments will target mental health services, with over 17 million euros allocated to the regional network for individuals with severe mental disorders. The department will also enhance resources for women victims of gender-based violence, establishing a new Hariberria centre in Lazkao.
Economic development and sustainability
The budget for Economic Promotion and Strategic Projects will total 81.7 million euros, an increase of 6 million euros from 2026. This funding aims to bolster confidence and stability while supporting the economy and industry in facing challenges.
Additionally, 32.5 million euros will be dedicated to aid programmes for strengthening the roots, competitiveness, and talent of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with specific allocations for attracting talent, digitalisation, and entrepreneurship.
The sustainability department will receive a budget of 58 million euros, an increase of 4.3 million euros, to advance energy transition efforts, climate action, and circular economy initiatives. Notably, funding for climate change mitigation will rise by 39.5%, supporting municipalities and businesses in developing adaptation policies.
Overall, the proposed budget reflects Gipuzkoa's commitment to social policies, quality care, and a sustainable economy capable of generating quality employment while addressing the green transition.
