11 Nov 2025
ESFRI releases position paper on upcoming European Innovation Act
The European Strategy Forum on Research Infrastructures (ESFRI) has published a position paper outlining key recommendations for the forthcoming European Innovation Act (EIA). ESFRI stresses the essential role that Research and Technology Infrastructures (RIs/TIs) play in boosting innovation, supporting startups, and improving Europe’s global competitiveness.
ESFRI’s paper suggests tailored transnational access to RIs/TIs for startups and scale-ups, with specific criteria to ensure balanced opportunities. It calls for clarifying state aid regulations, extending data embargo periods for company-generated data to protect commercial interests, and creating flexible collaboration options regardless of infrastructure status. The paper emphasises the need for clear intellectual property regulations, as well as legal frameworks and funding for temporary personnel exchanges.
Further recommendations include granting startups temporary co-location at RIs/TIs, positioning infrastructures as innovation hubs with knowledge-sharing platforms, and enhancing talent development. ESFRI also urges alignment of RIs/TIs for expedited commercialisation of research.
ESFRI believes that implementing these recommendations within the EIA and the upcoming Charter of Access will help European research infrastructures drive scientific excellence and economic growth.
The paper can be downloaded here: