Following consultations with Member States and stakeholders, the Commission has proposed a new strategy to fulfill research and innovation needs and boost the production, use, and uptake of advanced materials.
The strategy aims to enhance the EU’s long-term competitiveness by ensuring the block remains at the forefront of new material technologies, supporting development, testing and deployment capacities. The proposed actions will also strengthen the EU’s open strategic autonomy and economic security by reducing dependencies on critical materials by replacing them or supporting their recycling and reuse.
It includes actions along five main pillars to be implemented with EU Member States, industry players and other key stakeholders:
- Strengthening the European research and innovation ecosystem on advanced materials.
- Accelerating the design, development, and testing of new advanced materials, including through AI.
- Increasing capital investment and access to financing with support from the European Innovation Council.
- Fostering the production and use of advanced materials.
- Creating a Technology Council for advanced materials with Member States, Associated Countries and industry actors.
As part of these actions, the European Commission will set up a new Co-programmed European Partnership with industry under Horizon Europe, aiming for €500 million in investments for 2025-2027, with at least €250 million coming from private sources. It will also launch an Advanced Materials Academy with the European Institute of Innovation and Technology to ensure upskilling in the European workforce.
Why is this relevant for Horizon Europe?
Strategies like this one often impact Horizon Europe calls for proposals. Dedicated calls for proposals addressing the priorities of this new strategy for advanced materials will be included in the future Horizon Europe Work Programmes.
Background
Advanced materials are fundamental for delivering energy, electronics, construction and mobility innovation. Their demand is expected to increase significantly as they are crucial for the green and digital transition.
Europe has a strong position in developing advanced materials, but continuous innovation is critical to ensuring it remains at the forefront of new technologies.