European Partnership Stakeholders Forum 2024: Driving Innovation and Collaboration for a Sustainable Future

The European Factories of the Future Research Association (EFFRA) is proud to have participated in the highly engaging European Partnership Stakeholders Forum 2024, held on 5–6 December 2024 in Brussels, Belgium. Organised by the European Commission, this two-day event brought together a strong community of stakeholders from across Europe to explore opportunities for fostering collaboration and shaping the future of EU partnerships in research and innovation.

Setting the Stage for European Collaboration

With a focus on strengthening partnerships and aligning with key European priorities, the forum provided an inclusive platform for diverse stakeholders—public authorities, research organisations, industries, and civil society—to engage in meaningful discussions. The event’s central theme was “Shaping Pathways to Sustainability, Digital Transition, and Resilience through Partnerships.”

EFFRA, a committed voice in the manufacturing innovation landscape, actively contributed to discussions that align closely with the Made in Europe Partnership. As the manufacturing industry faces profound transformations, partnerships like Made in Europe play a critical role in driving sustainable growth, advancing technological breakthroughs, and ensuring Europe’s competitiveness on the global stage.

Highlights of the Forum

Ekaterina Zaharieva, Commissioner for Start-Ups, Research, and Innovation, outlined her vision for strengthening Europe’s innovation ecosystem. She emphasized five strategic priorities:

1. Reinforcing Europe’s research ecosystems to remain globally competitive.
2. Accelerating progress in transformative technologies critical for societal advancement.
3. Promoting inclusivity and collaboration to build a unified European research union.
4. Aligning innovation efforts with strategic, long-term goals.
5. Preparing an ambitious successor to Horizon Europe to sustain excellence in innovation.

Giorgio Gori, MEP and Vice-Chair of the ITRE Committee (Industry, Research, and Energy), delivered a legislative perspective on the future of EU research and innovation frameworks, including the upcoming FP10 program. Key points from his address included:

1. Advocacy for a significantly increased budget to expand European research and development capacities.
2. Proposals for a dedicated EU research and excellence program to focus strategic efforts.
3. A commitment to openness, accessibility, and simplified administration for EU research initiatives, fostering broader participation.

Laszlo Bodis, Deputy State Secretary for Innovation and Representative of the Hungarian Presidency, highlighted the transformative impact of European Partnerships, particularly in:

1. Mobilising financial commitments from both the public and private sectors to maximize impact.
2. Aligning research and innovation efforts with Europe’s strategic priorities, such as sustainability, digital transition, and industrial competitiveness.
3. Driving collaboration among diverse stakeholders to create meaningful, scalable innovations.

The Way Forward

The forum underscored the need for continued stakeholder cooperation to address pressing challenges such as climate change, energy transition, and technological sovereignty. By fostering partnerships that leverage the strengths of diverse actors, the EU can ensure a more resilient and sustainable future for its citizens.

Together with our partners, we remain committed to driving innovation and supporting the shared vision of a sustainable, digital, and inclusive Europe.