The European Union is currently setting the course for the next Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (FP10), which will begin in 2028. We acknowledge the Commission’s efforts to simplify and streamline processes. However, we would like to take this opportunity to share our thoughts on some aspects we consider to be particularly important.

• FP10 should stand for excellent science and technology, reliable funding programmes, and robust collaborative research.
• Funding programmes should be aligned efficiently to cover the entire innovation chain, from basic and applied research to (market-oriented) technology development. This alignment should include environmental, social and economic sustainability across the entire innovation process to enhance competitiveness and strengthen prosperity and strategic autonomy of Europe.
• A reliable and strong long-term funding framework and related tools, as well as sufficient funding, are needed for the European Research Area to support scientific research at universities and research and technology organisations, enabling them to
  remain internationally competitive.
• One of the essential strengths of the European research landscape lies in Collaborative Research, which is represented in the second pillar of FP10, bringing together universities, non-university institutions and industry, including SMEs, across national borders. It is vital that in the future, funding is not limited to short-term economic gain.
• The FP10 programme should not be constrained by the envisaged European Competitiveness Fund with respect to its objectives and governance, enabling synergies where appropriate.

For EASN: Andreas Strohmayer (Chairman) | Spiros Pantelakis (Honorary Chairman) | Helge Pfeiffer (Secretary General)

For CEAS: Cornelia Hillenherms (President) | Andrea Alaimo (Director General) | Svjetlana Stekovic (Trustee)