19 Oct 2026
EC publishes draft programme for R&I Days 2026
The European Commission has published the draft conference programme for the European R&I Days 2026, due to take place in Brussels on 10 and 11 November 2026. In addition, all sessions will be live streamed on YouTube and the R&I Community platform
The R&I Days will be opened by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, followed by opening remarks by Enrico Letta and by Commissioner for Startups, Research and Innovation Ekaterina Zaharieva. Topics covered by the programme will include:
- Freedom of scientific research
- Removing regulatory barriers to business scale-up
- Between openness and sovereignty - Implementing the European Strategy on Research and Technology
- Public trust in science
- Alignment of public research policies
- Attractive research careers in Europe - Talent, mobility and the future of the ERA
- From research excellence to technological sovereignty - Europe's AI moment
- Spotlight on agriculture and food systems
- Strengthening open and secure international cooperation and science diplomacy
- Gender equality as a catalyst for competitiveness
- Values and principles under a 'New World Order' and the role of association policy.
In addition, the R&I Days will feature the award ceremonies for the Public Engagement with Research Award and the Prize for Governance Innovations in Energy Communities.