Revitalising Europe’s Economic Dynamism: The Role of Philanthropy in Research and Innovation

Revitalising Europe’s Economic Dynamism: The Role of Philanthropy in Research and Innovation

Event organized by Philea (Philanthropy Europe Association) and hosted by Collegio Carlo Alberto

The Research Forum will explore “Revitalising Europe’s Economic Dynamism: The Role of Philanthropy in Research and Innovation” on 6-7 November in Turin, Italy, hosted by Fondazione Compagnia di San Paolo, to look at the pivotal role of philanthropy in revitalising Europe’s economic dynamism through research and innovation.

The Lisbon Strategy, launched in March 2000, set an ambitious goal for the European Union, to become the world’s most competitive and dynamic knowledge-based economy by 2010. The strategy sought to transform the EU into a global economic leader through innovation, research and education. However, 25 years on, the results have fallen short of expectations. Rather than achieving global economic leadership, Europe has seen a decline in its competitiveness, losing ground to major rivals such as the United States and China.

The event builds on recent high-profile reports by European leaders and the European Commission to support the interim evaluation of Horizon Europe and provide strategic recommendations for maximising the impact of research and innovation in preparation of the next Framework Programme. All of which highlight the critical importance of research, innovation and education in driving economic growth and maintaining global competitiveness. This perspective has been reiterated by Ursula von der Leyen, who emphasised that research, innovation, science and technology must be central to Europe’s economic strategy.

The message is clear; if Europe is to remain relevant on the global stage, it must place these areas at the core of its economic future.

The first day of the event will revolve around Manuel Heitor and his report “Align, Act, Accelerate: Research, Technology and Innovation to Boost European Competitiveness” which offers a strategic blueprint for improving the EU research and innovation system and explores roles for philanthropy.

The workshop on the second day is conceived as an opportunity for foundations to exchange ideas on R&I activities, building on the lessons learned the previous day and with a particular emphasis on social objectives.In the presence of Manuel Heitor, a selected number of participants (up to 40) will reflect on how philanthropic organisations are developing strategies, programmes and approaches towards research and innovation that can advance a model of competitiveness that balances economic vitality with social responsibility.

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