Brussels, Belgium – European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has laid out ambitious plans aimed at enhancing scientific innovation across the continent. In a recent address, she unveiled initiatives designed to streamline processes for startups and foster greater access to venture capital. Central to her vision is the introduction of a “European Innovation Act” alongside a comprehensive “Startup and Scaleup Strategy,” intended to transform cutting-edge scientific research into viable business ventures.
Von der Leyen emphasized the importance of establishing a legally protected framework for scientific inquiry through her proposed “European Research Area Act.” This legislative measure seeks to ensure the freedom of research throughout Europe, reinforcing the commitment to knowledge and innovation.
Highlighting the need for investment in research, von der Leyen called upon European Union nations to allocate 3% of their gross domestic product to research and development by 2030. This target, while noble, is one that the EU has long advocated for, yet has struggled to fulfill over the years.
In a parallel effort, French President Emmanuel Macron recently launched an initiative dubbed “Choose France for Science.” While aimed at attracting top-tier researchers to France, the program has drawn scrutiny from local academics who demand better salaries and working conditions to effectively compete with institutions in the United States. Macron reported that the new program has already generated “several hundred” applications since its inception.
This effort is reminiscent of Macron’s earlier initiatives, such as the “Make Our Planet Great Again” program during Donald Trump’s presidency, which aimed to attract environmentally focused researchers after the U.S. withdrew from the Paris climate agreement. The impact of those efforts remains a topic of debate.
In his address, Macron noted that the current initiative has successfully enabled France to recruit leading scientists whose climate research faced challenges elsewhere. The push to strengthen scientific capacity is seen by many as essential for both national and regional progress.
The initiatives presented by both von der Leyen and Macron underscore a growing recognition of the importance of innovative research in driving economic growth and addressing pressing global challenges. As Europe navigates a rapidly changing landscape, the ability to attract and retain scientific talent could prove pivotal in shaping the continent’s future.
While the pledges have sparked optimism among some, the success of these initiatives will ultimately depend on sustained commitment from member states to invest in research and innovation. As academics and entrepreneurs await tangible changes, the true test will be whether these ambitious proposals can translate into meaningful progress.