Framework Programme
The report from the group on the interim evaluation of Horizon Europe is aligned with Mario Draghi’s proposals on competitiveness
The expert group on the interim evaluation of Horizon Europe, the EU’s framework programme for research and innovation for the 2021-2027 period, published a report last week detailing key recommendations aimed at improving research and innovation (R&I) policies within the European Union. With a holistic approach that aligns research and innovation with the EU’s strategic agenda, the experts seek solutions to boost competitiveness and address societal challenges.
In his report on the future of European competitiveness, published last month, former ECB President Mario Draghi highlighted that public and private investments in R&I are essential for Europe’s productivity and well-being. In mid-July, upon her re-election for a second term as President of the European Commission, and considering the risk of falling behind in a turbulent geopolitical context, Ursula von der Leyen emphasised the need to place R&I at the heart of the economy.
For over 40 years, the Framework Programmes have strengthened scientific cooperation and funded world-class research, generating significant societal benefits. In this context, the Directorate-General for R&I commissioned a group of experts, led by Manuel Heitor, former secretary of State for Science of Portugal, to provide concrete recommendations for optimising the Framework Programme and preparing for future investments.
Their report, based on extensive consultations and analysis, offers fresh ideas for improving European funding and enhancing access to it, harnessing Europe’s potential and fostering an environment where innovation can thrive and deliver value.
The report advocates for a whole-of-government approach to align research and innovation policies with major EU strategic documents. This transformative strategy aims to promote disruptive innovation across sectors, emphasizing the necessity of placing research and innovation at the heart of the European economy.
To enhance Europe’s global standing, the report recommends increasing the overall R&I budget to €220 billion. This increase is essential as EU R&I spending currently lags behind its target of 3% of GDP. Additionally, there should be stronger connections between widening actions and national investments.
The report identifies four key areas for focus within Framework Programme 10 (FP10): competitive excellence, industrial competitiveness, societal challenges, and a strong R&I ecosystem. By prioritizing high-quality proposals, the aim is to fund all excellent projects, ensuring a robust and dynamic R&I landscape.
An experimental unit should be established to test new programs and assessment methods. Inspired by the Advanced Research Projects Agency models, this unit will focus on innovative funding processes and the application of generative AI in research initiatives.
Doubling the budgets for the European Research Council and the European Innovation Council is crucial for attracting private investment and supporting young researchers. This enhancement will ensure strong governance and the successful execution of innovative projects.
The establishment of an independent council to enhance industry participation in FP10 is recommended. This council, governed by industry experts, aims to reduce bureaucratic barriers and ensure the framework’s relevance to the industry.
A societal challenges council should be created to oversee research on pressing societal issues, such as mental health. This council will emphasize the importance of social sciences in addressing these challenges effectively.
Strengthening European university alliances and reversing brain drain are crucial to building an inclusive R&I ecosystem. Reforming widening instruments to enhance research and technology capacities, particularly in newer EU member states, will be a priority.
The report suggests adopting a trust first/evaluate later approach to application processes, simplifying forms, and reducing administrative complexity. These reforms should be tested in the final years of Horizon Europe to enhance user experience and efficiency.
A dedicated innovation procurement programme is proposed to incentivize the adoption of new technologies in areas such as decarbonization and defence. This program aims to stimulate industry and accelerate the scaling-up of innovations.
The report emphasizes the need for nuanced partnerships with non-EU countries, balancing scientific collaboration with geopolitical concerns. Countries like China and the US present both opportunities and challenges that require careful navigation.
The inclusion of dual-use (civil and military) projects in FP10 is recommended, highlighting the need to integrate both without imposing extra conditions unless legally necessary.
Introducing a dedicated innovation procurement programme will incentivize public authorities to adopt advanced technologies in critical areas such as decarbonization and defence, stimulating industry growth and accelerating the scaling of innovations, following the conclusions of the group of experts.
“These initiatives, outlined also in our position paper for FP10, aim to create a robust and dynamic industrial landscape, enabling Europe to strengthen its competitive edge in the global market”, says Camino Correia, Head of European Projects and member of the Executive Committee of Zabala Innovation.
News
FP10 POSITION PAPER
We present our position paper on the 10th Framework Programme. Today we define the lines that will mark the policies that will support Innovation in the period 2028-2034
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Draghi Report
Susana Garayoa
Head of Institutional Relations in Brussels
Publication
10th Framework Programme
Explore the document in which we share our recommendations and strategic vision for the forthcoming 10th Framework Programme
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