IMDEA (Spanish pronunciation: [inˈde.a]) is a project founded by the Madrid Regional Government, included in the IV Regional Plan of Scientific Research and Technological Innovation 2005-2008 (PRICIT),[1] for the purpose of setting up advanced research centers and higher education and training in the Community of Madrid.

[2][3][4][5][6] Between 2006 and 2008 the project created nine IMDEA Institutes of which two (Mathematics and Social Sciences) were closed.

There are currently seven, each specializing in an area of knowledge, as indicated by their names: Each of the Institutes is governed and administered by a Board of Trustees, who may be appointed or elected, and who choose a Director.

Some of the trustees are well-known scientists, and others are experts in areas related to the foundations' goals, working at universities and other research centers on the Board.

Trustees with business experience or recognized professional prestige in the sectors related to the foundations' goals may also be appointed.