NTNU European Conference Afternoon session

Moderated by Simon Pickard, Science|Business


The new R&I funding framework: an appropriate tool for approaching EU future challenges?
The European Commission's first proposal for its next R&I funding framework was finally revealed in July and has already become the subject of an intense debate towards its finalisation and implementation after the end of Horizon Europe. The Commission's vision encompasses a set of new approaches and a rationalised set of funding instruments - yet also signals a definite shift toward higher TRL activities, in line with the political intention to increase Europe’s competitiveness.

At this early stage in the institutional process, therefore, does the proposal fulfil the expectations of the R&I community at large, including industrial stakeholders? Does it pose specific challenges that need to be addressed to make it more impactful? Is it still a good tool for the different typologies of R&I players or is it more favourable to a subset of them? Is it inclusive in terms of thematic coverage?

These and other questions will be discussed in the final panel of the conference, which will also draw on highlights from the preceding parallel sessions to inform and inspire its discussions.

Summary of Parallel Session Highlights by Karoline Daugstad, Director NTNU Community, Bjørn Egil Asbjørnslett, Director NTNU Ocean & Coast and Nils Kalstad, Director NTNU Civil Security

Setting the Scene:
The Proposal for a new Horizon Europe by Francisco de la Torre Francia, Deputy Head of Unit DG RTD, European Commission

Closing Plenary:
The new R&I Funding Framework: An appropriate tool for approaching EU future challenges?

Panel featuring Eszter Lakos, MEP, European Parliament, Toril A. Nagelhus Hernes, Vice-Rector for Research & Innovation, NTNU, Francisco de la Torre Francia, Deputy Head of Unit DG RTD, European Commission and Renzo Tomellini, Director, Leonardo Brussels Office

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Closing address by Manuel Aleixo, Cabinet Expert, Cabinet of Commissioner Ekaterina Zaharieva, European Commission

Closing remarks by Massimo Busuoli, Director, NTNU Brussels Office