On 10 December 2024, Brussels buzzed with curiosity as over 120 attendees and hundreds of online participants gathered for the second annual knowledge valorisation stakeholder event. Themed "Driving EU Prosperity through the Future of Knowledge Valorisation," it celebrated progress, looking back at two years of awareness raising campaign on knowledge valorisation and explored fresh ideas to turn research and innovation into real-world impact.
Big Ideas, Global Goals
The day kicked off with a fascinating keynote about Japan’s approach to knowledge valorisation, proving that transforming research into practical solutions is a global priority. Participants emphasized the importance of partnerships between universities and businesses, with intermediaries taking centre stage. Tools like hackathons and open innovation platforms were highlighted as great ways to spark collaboration.
Innovation with a Heart
One standout session focused on socially responsible licensing, showing how to align commercial interests in the exploitation of intellectual assets with societal values i.e. in medical research. Another session, led by DG GROW, explored the link between intellectual property and standards, reminding everyone that strong standards are a backbone of innovation and global competitiveness.
Unlocking the Power of IP
Experts from the European Union Intellectual Property Office and European Patent Office shared how smart intellectual property strategies can supercharge growth for companies and universities alike. They stressed that IP is not just about protection—it is a magnet for investment and a key to scaling ideas into market successes.
Fresh Policy Perspectives
A lively debate moderated by Maria Cristina Russo, Director for Prosperity at DG RTD, featuring high-level representatives from Spain, France, Portugal, and Czechia shone a spotlight on how EU countries are stepping up since the 2022 Council Recommendation on the guiding principles for knowledge valorisation. From new funding tools to innovative reforms, the message was clear: there is a lot happening to boost competitiveness and close the innovation gap.
Celebrating Success
The conference wrapped up with two inspiring awards ceremonies. The CEN-CENELEC Standards and Innovation Award celebrated EU leaders in setting innovation-friendly standards. Meanwhile, the 2024 EU Sparks for Climate Hackathon award recognized novel and innovative citizen-driven solutions to climate change meeting societal needs.
Looking Ahead
The conference was not just about reflecting on achievements—it was a journey to ‘what’s next’. By bringing together stakeholders across the research and innovation ecosystem, the event reinforced the EU’s commitment to turning ideas into impact and driving prosperity across Europe.