European R&I Framework Programme: 12 recommendations from the Manuel Heitor High Level Group

"First, we need a strong framework programme. Second, we need a suitable budget, at least €220 Bn, together with all excellent propositions being funded. Third, we need radical simplification and innovation in the programme", says Manuel Heitor, chair of the High-Level Group in charge of the mid-term evaluation of Horizon Europe and former Portuguese Minister of Science, Technology and Higher Education, at the launch event of his report titled "Align, act, accelerate" on 16/10/2024.

This group of 15 experts was set up in December 2023. It was tasked with evaluating Horizon Europe to provide the Commission with recommendations for the future of the framework programme.

He tells News Tank that one aim of his report is to bring changes to the structure of the European R&I Framework Programme: "We want to add two new councils -Industrial Competitiveness and Technology Council and Societal Challenges Council-and stress the need for them to be independent, just as it is important for the ERC and EIC to preserve it."

"By empowering these councils, we can better address both industrial…