INL is an international intergovernmental research organisation aiming to perform cutting-edge research and development in nanotechnology and to function as an innovation integrator in multiple application domains. INL was established in 2005 by a joint decision of the Governments of Portugal and Spain.  

Operating since late 2010, following an initial investment of 100 M€, INL is currently financed by the member states (30%), competitive funds from Horizon 2020, Horizon Europe, and national PT2020 scientific calls (50%), and industry collaborations and user fees (20%).