1. An EIT for Europe ? Closing the gap between Research and Innovation Dr. Horst Soboll ViceChair EURAB European Research Advisory Board COMETIS Brussels 23.01.2006

2. The European Paradox Innovation is seen as the major key to European industrial competitiveness The key challenge is to overcome the “European Paradox” Not just to acquire more knowledge but also to successfully transform knowledge into commercially viable products and services. 23.01.2006 HS

3. Attracting the very best researchers and students International acclaim ( Nobel prizes, top rankings ) Excellence in research ( papers and patents, even products ) Spin - off companies, regional research clusters Innovation- research friendly climate and conditions Industry collaboration - strategic partnerships Focussed research - " missions " VISION – Dreams 23.01.2006 HS

4. REALITY – Reservations Is a top down approach realistic ? Detraction from other research initiatives " EIT " at the expense of existing budgets ? MIT – the M has a meaning Lack of innovation culture in the EU Might not leverage European diversity EP building in Strasbourg available ? 23.01.2006 HS

5. Multiple EIT s for Europe ?

6. From Vision to Reality ? Unique opportunity – visibility on highest level EC President, EP Create an Innovative Europe ( Aho report ) pact for research and innovation Generate environment and incentives to push research and innovation ( Excellence through competition ) Use of existing EU instruments Additional resources for research e.g. Structural Funds, agriculture Specific missions, e.g. energy, transport … 23.01.2006 HS

7. Nothing great has ever been achieved without someone dreaming... that it should be so, someone believing... that it could be so, and someone being convinced... that it must be so! Charles F. Kettering An EIT for Europe ? 23.01.2006 HS