The "Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Estudios Norteamericanos Benjamin Franklin" of the Universidad de Alcalá (Instituto Franklin - UAH) has its roots in 1987 when the University established a center for the study and research of North America. Since 1987, Instituto Franklin has focused on developing new ways of institutional collaboration between Spain and North America, through specific initiatives based mainly on sponsoring different research projects, the organization of international meetings and conferences, and developing academic programs for American students.
The mission of Instituto Franklin - UAH is to serve as a cooperative platform that unites Spain and North America with the objective to promote awareness and knowledge about the diversity of cultures that pertain to those territories. This mission is carried out through collaborations between Universidad de Alcalá and American higher education institutions, public or private agencies, and associations in order to foster understanding and constructive collaboration on both sides of the Atlantic.