European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT): Regulation and new strategic innovation agenda

Briefing 03-06-2021

On 11 July 2019, the Commission presented its new legislative package on the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT). The package consists of a recast of both the previous regulation governing the EIT and a new strategic innovation agenda. Created in 2008, the EIT is dedicated to increasing competitiveness, sustainable economic growth and job creation by promoting ‘knowledge triangle activities’ (higher education, research and innovation). It operates through 'knowledge and innovation communities' (KICs) that address specific societal challenges, such as digitalisation, urban mobility, climate and raw materials and was part of Horizon 2020 and will come uner the new Horizon Europe programme. Interinstitutional negotiations on both files concluded in February 2021 and the texts agreed at first reading were formally adopted by Parliament and Council in turn. After being signed on 20 May 2021, both entered into force retroactively from 1 January 2021. Third edition of a briefing originally drafted by Cemal Karakas. The 'EU Legislation in Progress' briefings are updated at key stages throughout the legislative procedure.