Eureka and the European Commission: a valued and enduring partnership

As a founding member, the European Commission values its enduring partnership with Eureka. For four decades, Eureka has shown what Europe and its global partners can achieve through sustained collaboration. It has enabled a unique network of countries from around the world, industries, research institutions and small- and medium-sized enterprises to work collectively towards common innovation goals.

As we mark Eureka’s 40th anniversary, it is timely to reflect not only on its achievements but also to explore how the relationship between the European Commission and Eureka can evolve. Our ability to stay competitive and resilient in a rapidly evolving global landscape increasingly depends on our capacity to transform innovative ideas into practical outcomes that benefit both businesses and citizens. The European Commission remains firmly committed to supporting initiatives that drive this transformation, and the collaboration fostered through Eureka is a significant asset in this endeavour. It is essential that this cooperation continues to reinforce key European Union policy initiatives, including the Startup and Scaleup Strategy, the Competitiveness Compass and the objectives of the forthcoming European Innovation Act.

Enhancing cooperation between Eureka and the European Innovation Council is critical to creating complementary funding pathways that effectively support deep tech and breakthrough innovation. This cooperation can help to bridge gaps and streamline access to funding, enabling innovators to scale their ideas and technologies faster and more efficiently.

The European Commission remains firmly committed to supporting initiatives that drive this transformation, and the collaboration fostered through Eureka is a significant asset in this endeavour.

The Innovative SMEs Partnership, co-funded by the European Commission and Eureka country ministries and funding agencies, showcases the achievements that are possible when efforts are united. The success stories emerging from this initiative highlight the crucial importance of investing in innovative ideas that deliver tangible societal impact, as well as the added value of combining national investments with European Union funding. To fully realise the potential of such initiatives, securing increased national and regional funding alongside European Union support is essential. By drawing on these experiences and lessons, we can strengthen future European Union innovation policies, encouraging cross-border cooperation, enabling businesses to scale up and fostering leadership in strategic sectors that are vital for Europe’s growth, sustainability and sovereignty.

Looking forward, we now have an opportunity to ensure a strong and effective alignment between Eureka-funded projects and the European Union’s evolving policy priorities. Accelerating the development and deployment of breakthrough technologies that address critical challenges, such as climate change, digital transformation, health and sustainable economic growth, requires active, consistent and coordinated support from Member States. Only through such backing can Eureka projects secure the necessary resources and demonstrate the political will to succeed.

Eureka’s legacy offers a strong foundation for the future. I encourage all stakeholders, governments, businesses, researchers and innovators to deepen their commitments, strengthen collaboration and work together to unlock new opportunities that will benefit Europe and its citizens.

Happy 40th anniversary, Eureka!

Ekaterina Zaharieva, European Commissioner for Startups, Research, and Innovation