The EARPA Executive Board has recently discussed our perspective on the Heitor Report, “Align Act Accelerate: Research, Technology, and Innovation to Boost European Competitiveness”.
The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the European Research and Development Framework Programme, effectively outlining strengths and shortcomings within its vast landscape. It offers twelve high-level recommendations aimed at enhancing the programme’s positive impact, and this is an effort that we commend and appreciate.
While the report makes some proposals towards a future Framework Programme, it may need some further consideration and refinement prior to implementation. We strongly advise that the report’s recommendations on the future relevance and governance of Pillar 2 should be approached with caution.
Following much discussion, the Executive Board felt that a reaction was needed on behalf of EARPA in response to this report. To voice our perspective, the Executive Board has prepared the attached open letter: EARPA’s reflection on the Heitor Report, “Align Act Accelerate. Research, Technology and Innovation to boost European Competitiveness”.
EARPA encourages careful consideration of the risks associated with shifting the focus of Pillar 2 away from pre-competitive research, as mentioned in the Heitor analysis. We emphasise the critical role of Pillar 2 in fostering pre-competitive research.
EARPA looks forward to engaging with European Institutions and policy makers in a constructive dialogue, to further elaborate on its perspectives on a future Framework Programme enriched with concrete measures on how beneficial reforms can be introduced. Reinforcing a strategy that unites Europe’s best capabilities across academia, research, and industry is essential for the future of a Union that deploys its full potential as a driver of innovation, competitiveness, and shared prosperity.
We encourage you to share this open letter widely with your network to raise awareness about our reflection on this report.
STAY IN THE LOOP
Subscribe to our newsletter.
05/12/2024
The international jury panel contributing to the 2024-edition was made up of many EARPA members. EARPA's collaboration reflects our shared commitment to fostering innovation and driving the automotive industry forward.
15/10/2024
EARPA's Autumn Meeting 2024 (30 September – 1 October 2024), attracted over 200 attendees, which included EARPA Members and other professionals from the European road mobility and automotive sector.
04/07/2024
EARPA calls on the EU Institutions to significantly increase the current RD&I budget in view of next FP10 via a joint statement with 109 other European Associations.
