Bridging the Innovation Gap with European Technology Infrastructures

Today, the Commission published a report with recommendations on Technology Infrastructures (TIs), to ensure that they can effectively support industries, small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) and start-ups in sustainable growth and technological leadership. It is accompanied by an analytical report on TI user needs. Produced by the Expert Group on Technology Infrastructures (EGTI), the report will feed in the upcoming European Strategy on Research and Technology Infrastructures aimed at creating a pan-European ecosystem that boosts competitiveness, accelerates the green and digital transitions and position Europe as a global leader in cutting-edge technologies.

Key recommendations

The report presents five strategic recommendations to improve the development and accessibility of Technology Infrastructures:

• A formalised definition of Technology Infrastructures to ensure a clear and unified approach across the EU;
• Better access for businesses, especially SMEs and startups, by streamlining procedures and increasing funding opportunities;
• A new investment prioritisation mechanism to support key technologies for Europe’s competitiveness;
• Stronger governance and coordination at the EU level to align European, national and regional initiatives;
• Dedicated EU and national funding programmes to support the growth and sustainability of Technology Infrastructures.

Background

Technology Infrastructures play a vital role in strengthening Europe’s innovation landscape. They provide state-of-the-art facilities to businesses for testing, scaling, and validating new technologies, such as test beds, demonstration and testing facilities, pilot lines, and living labs. However, fragmented funding and limited accessibility have hindered their potential.

The EU is developing a coordinated approach to Technology Infrastructures under the ERA Policy Agenda (2022-2024) to support industry, particularly SMEs and startups, by addressing accessibility, fragmentation and investment coordination. This initiative aligns with the Council Conclusions on Knowledge Valorisation in May 2024, which call for a clear definition, mapping of user needs, and an EU strategy to enhance innovation support across Europe. The upcoming European Strategy for Research and Technology Infrastructures will be instrumental in in enhancing the TI ecosystem, ensuring Europe's competitiveness in the global landscape.

More Information

Report: Towards a European policy for technology infrastructures: Building bridges to competitiveness

Report: User needs for technology infrastructures

Technology Infrastructures