Reports

In October 2016, the Science|Network of universities, companies and innovation organisations gathered in Brussels to debate the future of EU R&D programmes. The result: A profusion of ideas, recommendations and warnings for the future of EU research and innovation.

In this report, for presentation to the Commissioner at the annual Science|Business Horizon 2020 conference on 16 February 2016 in Brussels, we suggest that an EIC focus on two fundamental problems: encouraging more breakthrough innovations, and scaling them up quickly within Europe and beyond. This requires tackling many sub-issues: market barriers, funding shortfalls, skills gaps, poor visibility, uncoordinated policies. But if we are to go through the political effort of creating a new agency – or deciding not to do so – there should be a clear, simple objective. In just four words: scale up breakthrough innovations.

Leading research universities around the world are becoming powerful engines of innovation. The most successful institutions generate tens or even hundreds of millions of euros in annual income from collaboration with industry, patents, licensing and spin-offs. Much of that income is channelled back to researchers, creating a virtuous circle for the university. At the same time, the universities that succeed at technology transfer contribute tangible benefits to society by stimulating innovation and economic growth.

This report explores the effectiveness of Finland’s high-growth entrepreneurship policy: whether or not this policy has helped mitigate money and skills gaps in the Finnish entrepreneurial ecosystem, thereby helping new firms grow.

In this report, we look at the big picture of IP management across the globe – and offer some case studies of small firms that have, in different ways, tackled their IP problems and won. With so much at stake, they couldn’t afford to fail.

This study offers an overview of the leading life sciences innovation hubs across Europe – some of which are also world leaders. It can form the basis for setting out a strategy for systematic engagement with Europe’s leading scientists, to enrich discovery research and generate innovation.

To succeed at Horizon 2020, you need a good road map – not just for the fundamentals of applying for grants, but to the many policy and political nuances you need to know. This unofficial ‘insider’s guide’ is our effort to gather some of the knowledge of our Brussels-based staff and our Network members scattered across Europe. We think it will increase your odds of success.

In October 2014, members of the Science|Business Network of universities and companies met in Berlin to compare notes about the future of four key sectors in Europe. This is what they see coming.

Across the European Union, healthcare authorities are striving to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of their delivery systems. The population is ageing; technology is advancing; costs are rising; and people’s expectations about healthcare are changing. Horizon 2020, the EU’s flagship research and innovation programme, can help deal with these challenges – in fact, member-states are demanding it do so.

Every year since 2008, the Science|Business Innovation Board has gathered entrepreneurs and innovators from across Europe for its annual awards. Meet this year’s winners – transforming education, enterprise, and the economy.