The new European Research Area sets out the intention to strengthen the research and innovation (R&I) dimension of universities through a comprehensive transformation agenda, empowering universities to develop in line with the ERA. In support of this agenda, the study 'Towards a European Excellence Initiative' undertook research into the state of excellence in universities in the EU, mapped
Member State initiatives supporting R&I excellence in universities, and assessed EU support for excellence through the European Universities Initiative. This report presents policy lessons emerging from the research and offers recommendations relating to the design and implementation of a possible European Excellence Initiative for the R&I dimension of universities.