In a letter sent today to the European Commission, EERA expresses strong concern over proposals to integrate the next Framework Programme (FP10) into a broader European Competitiveness Fund. 

While we welcome the Commission’s recognition of the central role of R&I in Europe’s future, we caution that merging FP10 into a wider fund could dilute its purpose, expose it to short-term political pressures, and undermine the long-term vision needed for impactful research and innovation. 

We call for:  

• A standalone EU R&I Framework Programme.
• A ring-fenced budget to ensure transparency, stability, traceability, and continuity in research funding.
• An ambitious €220B budget for FP10 – aligned with the Heitor report.
• A balanced approach across all TRLs to maintain an integrated innovation pipeline.
• A broader understanding of competitiveness – one that includes social & environmental impact.

R&I must not be reduced to a narrow growth metric. It is a strategic driver of Europe’s resilience, sustainability, and global leadership.