The European Committee of the Regions (CoR), the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Research and Innovation (DG RTD), and the Joint Research Centre (JRC) have adopted a Joint Action Plan to reinforce cooperation in research and innovation for the period 2026–2029. This initiative builds on previous collaboration and aligns with the current Commission’s strategic agenda, with a focus on strengthening the regional dimension of EU research and innovation policy.
The plan sets out a framework for structured cooperation aimed at improving coordination across governance levels and enhancing the impact of research and innovation investments. It emphasises the role of regional and local ecosystems in supporting competitiveness, sustainability, and social cohesion, and seeks to ensure that policy implementation is closely connected to territorial needs and capacities.
Four priority areas guide the cooperation. These include strengthening local and regional innovation ecosystems, supporting the green and digital transitions through place-based innovation, improving dissemination of funding opportunities and results, and reinforcing evidence-based policymaking at regional level. The plan highlights the importance of knowledge transfer, talent development, and the alignment of research activities with regional strategies.
To support these priorities, the plan sets out a non-exhaustive list of actions covering areas such as maintaining the Knowledge Exchange Platform, involving regional representatives in the European Research Area, collaborating with Horizon Europe missions, and promoting knowledge valorisation and access to research infrastructures. Additional actions address areas including health research, cultural and creative industries, territorial resilience, and place-based innovation approaches. These measures are designed to remain flexible and may be adapted over time in response to emerging needs.
Monitoring and follow-up will be carried out jointly by DG RTD, the JRC and the CoR, with the possibility of periodic exchanges to assess progress and adjust priorities. The plan also provides for updates through simplified coordination between the participating institutions.
This Joint Action Plan is intended to support policymakers, regional authorities, and stakeholders involved in research and innovation by strengthening cooperation mechanisms and facilitating the exchange of knowledge and evidence across the EU.