Work plan

Our programme is updated every two years through a biennial work plan, shaped by a public consultation and input from inventors, researchers, universities, startups and policymakers among others. Following our timeline, you can expect new initiatives such as economic studies, technology insight reports, online events and tools like updates to the Deep Tech Finder or enhanced technology platforms to access patent documents.

Current plan for 2026 and 2027

2nd biennial work plan (2026–2027) 

The current biennial work plan is structured around three themes which are closely aligned with Europe’s broader transformation priorities:

• Breaking barriers to the innovation ecosystem covering areas such as the financing of innovation, patents and standards and the Unitary Patent
• Shaping a brighter future with technology with projects that include the circularity of batteries, artificial intelligence, access to medicines and fighting neurodegenerative diseases
• Empowering innovation actors focusing on technology transfer offices, women in STEM,  upskilling for youths and the mobility of European researchers.

It focuses on fostering a more co-ordinated and strategic approach to innovation, ensuring that Europe remains competitive and cohesive in the face of global change.

See the full biennial programme

1st biennial work plan (2023–2025) 

Launched in October 2023, the first biennial work plan set out 15 projects focusing on key areas:

• Technologies of the future: covering areas like oncology, quantum technologies (marking 2025 as the year of quantum), space-related inventions, water management and electricity.
• Innovation actors: examining the role of startups, universities and public research organisations (PROs) in the European innovation ecosystem.
• The role of patents in innovation: analysing how patents drive technological progress and investment, as well as their interaction with standards.

See the full biennial work plan