Universities are at the centre of European knowledge-intensive ecosystems. By fostering multidisciplinarity, attracting human talent, and stimulating entreprenurial mindsets, they generate the knowledge that is vital to innovation. In order to fulfil this mission, universities should engage deeply in developing common national and regional strategies, working for the political, cultural coherence of innovation ecosystems as well as coherence in the physical innovation space. These developments happen within the framework of European policies in a range of areas from regional development to industrial strategy.

As the new European Commission is defining its policy priorities, and the negotiations of the next long-term EU budget are underway, this event offers an opportunity to reflect on the necessary framework conditions to fully unlock universities’ potential in innovation ecosystems. Building upon examples of successful partnerships between universities, industry, and public authorities, the event seeks to build bridges between various actors and discuss the European Union’s new priorities for research and innovation.