It’s a Wrap: EIC Summit and Research & Innovation Week 2024

This year, European Innovation Council (EIC) Summit took place as a part of the Research & Innovation (R&I) week, from 18 to 21 March. R&I Week 2024 featured discussions centered around shaping the future of R&I and its role in addressing EU political priorities, with a specific emphasis on EU Tech Sovereignty and Competitiveness. Additionally, the event celebrated the 40-year journey through the Research and Innovation Framework Programmes, highlighting key milestones and achievements in advancing R&I within the European Union.

As a partner in the EIC Partnership Ecosystem, on the first day of the event, the European IP Helpdesk team participated in the "EIC Ecosystem Partnership - Partners Gathering". This provided an opportunity for the team to engage with other EIC stakeholders and exchange valuable insights. On the second day of the Summit, the European IP Helpdesk hosted a Workshop session "Teaming up for IP Excellence – IP Management and Valorisation Strategies". Moderated by the IP expert Michele Dubbini, this interactive workshop welcomed several speakers Iordanis Arzimanoglou, EIC Programme Manager, Jakob Haardt, Senior Research & Innovation Manager at the EURICE – European Research and Project Office GmbH as well as Dr. Edgar Janunts the founder of the AkknaTek GmbH.

The session mainly focused on IP management and knowledge valorisation strategies within collaborative EIC projects. It also specifically underscored the significance of licensing activities for EIC beneficiaries. During the session, the founder of the AkknaTek GmbH Dr. Edgar Janunts provided a real-life example by guiding participants through the successful journey of his company. He illustrated how EIC funding, coupled with a proficient IP strategy, played a pivotal role in the company's progress and achievements.