Supporting industry and society

The Summit opened with a session on the impact of Research and Technology Infrastuctures (RTI) on European industry and society. Speakers Jesús Valero (EARTO) and Mike Lamont (CERN) shared examples of how RTIs help companies grow and bring innovation to market. The session underlined a clear message: RTIs are not only research hubs but also key drivers of industrial innovation.

A New European Strategy for RTIs

Another major topic was the upcoming EU strategy on Research and Technology Infrastructures. The session was introduced by Jean-David Malo and Maria Christina Russo from the European Commission (DG RTD). Discussions focused on how RTIs fit into the broader innovation ecosystem and how to bridge the gap between research and market.

Panellists from the European Spallation Source ERIC, the Danish Technological Institute, and other national agencies discussed governance, funding, and cooperation models. They agreed that a strong, coherent EU strategy is crucial for Europe’s scientific and industrial leadership.

Building Europe’s Autonomy and Resilience

A dedicated session explored how RTIs can strengthen Europe’s autonomy and resilience.
In her keynote, Maria Christina Russo outlined how infrastructures must prepare for future global challenges while supporting both society and industry. The debate highlighted the role of innovation procurement and cross-sector partnerships, two areas where INPROCAP’s expertise is highly relevant.

Networking and Inspiration

The first day concluded with a networking reception at the Copenhagen Planetarium.
Participants enjoyed an IMAX experience featuring the research and innovation achievements of CERN, Fusion for Energy, and European Space Agency. The event offered valuable opportunities for exchange and collaboration across the Big Science community.

Financing and Sustainability

The second day focused on financial sustainability and investment strategies for RTIs.
Speakers from the European Commission, European Investment Bank, The European Synchrotron Radiation Facility and the Novo Nordisk Foundation discussed funding mechanisms and public-private cooperation models.
The session emphasised the need for new approaches to financing and procurement, ensuring RTIs continue to deliver long-term value for society.

INPROCAP – A Platform for Growth and Collaboration

INPROCAP’s presence at the RTI Summit 2025 highlighted the project’s commitment to building innovation procurement capacity within the Big Science ecosystem. By engaging with key players — from policymakers to industry representatives — INPROCAP continues to promote collaboration and knowledge exchange across Europe.

Thanks to the INPROCAP project, we organise specialised trainings and webinars strengthening the capacity of Big Science Organisations, Industrial Liaison Officers, and companies. Together with consortium partners, we aim to build innovation procurement expertise across the Big Science ecosystem.

PEDAL Consulting represented by Senior Project Manager Lucia Birasová and Jozef Kubinec, the Procurement Expert and Lawyer, had a chance to meet with various representatives from Big Science Organisations, Industrial Liaison Officers, and companies. Together, they could discuss the opportunities for collaboration on innovation procurement capacity building.

Events like the RTI Summit demonstrate that strong partnerships are essential for turning scientific excellence into real-world impact.

Learn more about the INPROCAP initiative:
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