Representing NSB at the EAIC End-of-Year Event, Riccardo Varotto engaged with EU leaders to help shape the future of European research, innovation funding, and strategic priorities
BRUSSELS, 2nd December 2025 – Riccardo Varotto represented NSB at the annual EAIC (European Association of Innovation Consultants) End-of-Year Event, a premier gathering that brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and innovation experts to shape the future of European Research and Innovation (R&I).
As a member of the EAIC, NSB joined high-level discussions featuring prominent speakers such as Eszter Lakos (Member of the European Parliament), Michiel Scheffer (President of the EIC), and Manuel Heitor (former Portuguese Minister for Science). The event served as a critical platform to review the past year’s policy work and define the strategic priorities for 2026.
Shaping the Future of European Funding
The day was marked by intensive updates from various EAIC Working Groups, focusing on the transition toward the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF 2028–2034) and the upcoming FP10. Key highlights included:
- EIC Reforms: Discussions on bridging the deep-tech funding gap and improving the effectiveness of the EIC Fund.
- The European Innovation Act: A call to position innovation as a cornerstone of European sovereignty and competitiveness.
- Operational Excellence: Proposals for harmonized project monitoring and more balanced call deadlines to improve participation, particularly for SMEs.
Strategic Priorities for 2026
During the interactive sessions, NSB contributed to defining the roadmap for the coming year. The EAIC’s work in 2026 will prioritize:
- Strengthening recognition of professional innovation consultants.
- Improving transparency and quality in project evaluations.
- Promoting integrity and high professional standards.
- Informing members on the implications of the future MFF.
- Advancing professional project management within EU R&I projects.
Navigating Complexity: Dual-Use and High-Risk Innovation
The event also tackled sensitive topics, including the challenges of dual-use research (civil and defense applications) and the potential for ARPA-style high-risk, high-reward funding models in Europe. Experts emphasized that for Europe to remain competitive, it must match policy ambition with effective implementation and sustained investment in excellence.
By participating in these pivotal dialogues, NSB continues to ensure its clients remain at the forefront of the European innovation landscape, benefiting from direct insights into the evolving regulatory and funding environment.
