A new study developed under the European Research Area (ERA) Policy Agenda 2025–27 sheds light on how research and innovation (R&I) activities generate economic and societal value across the EU and associated countries. The initiative responds to the growing recognition of knowledge valorisation as a key driver of economic growth, innovation capacity, and Europe’s strategic autonomy.
The study reviews existing evidence and introduces an exploratory framework combining 16 indicators and 41 metrics. This framework integrates both established measures and emerging data sources, including open data, administrative datasets, and new analytical approaches. It goes beyond traditional indicators by capturing a broader range of value creation pathways, such as knowledge transfer, academia–industry collaboration, contributions to standardisation, policy-making, and citizen engagement.
At the same time, the study highlights important challenges, including data gaps, inconsistent definitions, and variations in national practices, which currently limit comparability across countries. To address these issues, the report calls for pilot testing, further methodological development, and improved data alignment. These steps aim to support the creation of a more harmonised EU-wide approach to monitoring and enhancing knowledge valorisation.