Seizing Europe’s innovation moment: Empowering science and technology through the Innovation Act

The leading universities of science and technology across Europe united within CESAER have released their vision for the European Innovation Act, calling for a systemic approach that empowers researchers and innovators across the full knowledge value chain, from frontier science to real-world impact.

• The position is available here for download and dissemination (PDF).

In this position, we present seven key recommendations to unlock the full potential of Europe’s innovation ecosystems through the Innovation Act:

1. Innovative approaches and tools – support mechanisms bridging development through the full innovation continuum, from frontier research to technological impact.
2. Mobilising more private capital – unlock patient, risk-tolerant investment in deep tech and university spinouts.
3. Skills and talent development – create modern, attractive careers and open mobility pathways.
4. Coordination of research and innovation policies – ensure coherence across EU instruments and governance levels.
5. Radical simplification – reduce bureaucratic burden and complex regulations and empower researchers and innovators.
6. Strategic autonomy and societal goals – align innovation with sustainability, resilience, and prosperity.
7. Strengthening global collaboration – preserve openness and global leadership through partnerships.

“The upcoming Innovation Act is a unique opportunity to drive innovation leadership based on Europe’s scientific excellence. The Act must support researchers and innovators, reduce fragmentation, and catalyse long-term investment across the full knowledge continuum. Bold, coordinated action is needed now to strengthen our global competitiveness and resilience.”
— Tim Bedford (Vice-President of CESAER, Co-Chair of Task Force Innovation and Associate Principal for Research and Innovation at the University of Strathclyde)

“Universities of science and technology are already delivering the talent, technologies, and partnerships Europe needs. But too often, bureaucratic hurdles and fragmented support prevent ideas from reaching their full potential. The Innovation Act must enable our institutions to innovate at scale and with impact.”
— Toril Hernes (Co-Chair of Task Force Innovation, CESAER Board Member and Pro-Rector for Innovation at NTNU)

For more information, please contact our Information & Communication Officer Justine Moynat.