A European innovation powerhouse: The European Institute of Innovation and Technology Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs) have emerged as a significant contributor to Europe’s research and innovation landscape
Leveraging funding and driving change
As revealed in the Biennial monitoring report 2024 on Partnerships in Horizon Europe ‘Performance of European Partnerships’, EIT KICs have demonstrated an exceptional ability to attract significant public and private co-investment, amplifying the impact of EU contributions.
Accounting for 4 per cent of Horizon Europe’s partnership budget, EIT KICs have demonstrated a direct leverage factor of 2.35, surpassing the other European partnerships.
Addressing strategic priorities
EIT KICs are pivotal in addressing Europe’s strategic priorities, such as green and digital transitions. EIT Climate-KIC spearheads decarbonisation efforts, while EIT Digital drives Europe’s technological leadership in the digital domain. Their cross-sectoral collaborations, including synergies with EU programs like InvestEU and Erasmus+, further enhance their influence across various sectors.
Fostering innovation ecosystems: European innovation
At the national and regional levels, EIT KICs are actively shaping policy environments and supporting local innovation ecosystems. By aligning with national priorities and providing tailored support, they accelerate the adoption of cutting-edge technologies.
Openness and collaboration
EIT KICs are committed to openness and inclusivity. Their ability to attract and integrate diverse stakeholders, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), ensures that innovation is not only cutting-edge but also broadly accessible.
Synergies and competitiveness
EIT KICs’ active participation in collaborative efforts with other European partnerships, including the EU missions, further amplifies their contribution to Europe’s competitiveness and resilience. Their ability to create synergies across sectors, especially in emerging fields like transversal technologies, is a key factor in driving Europe’s progress.
In conclusion, EIT KICs have proven to be invaluable assets in advancing European policy objectives. Their ability to leverage funding, foster collaboration, and deliver tangible results across various sectors positions them as essential partners in Europe’s pursuit of a sustainable, competitive, and resilient future.
