Fundación Consejo España-Estados Unidos

Spain–U.S. relations

Fundación Consejo España-Estados Unidos was established in 1997 to strengthen ties between Spain and the United States. It describes itself as a civil society initiative focused on public diplomacy and mutual understanding between the two countries.

Programs and activities

• Spain–United States Forum: A space for dialogue between Spanish and American civil society on key bilateral issues, active since 1995. The 28th edition was held in Santander in 2026 and presided over by King Felipe VI.
• Visitor programs: Annual visits introducing contemporary Spain to young American professionals, Hispanic leaders, and senior U.S. congressional officials. Programs include North American Young Leaders, U.S. Hispanic Leaders, in partnership with NHCSL, and Senior Congressional Staff.
• Exhibitions: Projects such as “Emigrantes invisibles,” about Spanish migration to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The exhibition began its tour at the Tampa Bay History Center in Florida from March through August 2025.
• Fulbright scholars and internships: Scholarship and internship programs with companies on the foundation’s board.
• Seminars and partnerships: Events on university exchanges, scientific cooperation with ECUSA, and artificial intelligence regulation.

Governance and headquarters

The foundation is governed by a board that includes major companies, cultural and academic institutions, and public administration representatives. The University of Salamanca joined the board in 2026. Headquarters: Palacio de Santa Cruz, Plaza de la Provincia, 1, 28012 Madrid.

Award

The foundation presents the Bernardo de Gálvez Award. In its 11th edition, the award went to St. Augustine, Florida, a city founded by Spain in 1565.