REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the Strategic Innovation Agenda of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) 2021-2027: Boosting the Innovation Talent and Capacity of Europe

24.6.2020 - (COM(2019)0330 – C9‑0043/2019 – 2019/0152(COD)) - ***I

Committee on Industry, Research and Energy
Rapporteur: Maria Da Graça Carvalho

Errata/Addenda

• ERR01 (PDF - 157 KB)
• ERR01 (DOC - 54 KB)

Amendments

• 001-161 (PDF - 332 KB)
• 001-161 (DOC - 118 KB)
• 162-162 (PDF - 368 KB)
• 162-162 (DOC - 118 KB)

DRAFT EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION

on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the Strategic Innovation Agenda of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) 2021-2027: Boosting the Innovation Talent and Capacity of Europe (COM(2019)0330 – C9‑0043/2019 – 2019/0152(COD))

(Ordinary legislative procedure: first reading)

The European Parliament,

– having regard to the Commission proposal to Parliament and the Council (COM(2019)0330),

– having regard to Article 294(2) and Article 173(3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, pursuant to which the Commission submitted the proposal to Parliament (C9‑0043/2019),

– having regard to Article 294(3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

– having regard to Rule 59 of its Rules of Procedure,

– having regard to the opinion of the Committee on Culture and Education,

– having regard to the report of the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (A9-0121/2020),

1. Adopts its position at first reading hereinafter set out;

2. Suggests that the act be cited as 'the Decision on the Strategic Innovation Agenda of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) 221-2027: Boosting the Innovation Talent and Capacity of Europe';

3. Calls on the Commission to refer the matter to Parliament again if it replaces, substantially amends or intends to substantially amend its proposal;

4. Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments.

 

Amendment  1

 

Proposal for a decision

Citation 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Having regard to Regulation (EC) No 294/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 March 2008 establishing the European Institute of Innovation and Technology5 , and in particular Article 17 thereof,	Having regard to .../2020 [EIT Regulation (2019/0151(COD)] of the European Parliament and of the Council of .... 2020 and in particular Article 4 thereof,
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5 OJ L 97, 9.4.2008, p. 1.

Amendment  2

Proposal for a decision

Recital 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(1) Regulation (EC) No 294/2008 provides for the adoption of a Strategic Innovation Agenda ( ‘SIA’).	(1) Regulation (EU) .../2020 [EIT Regulation (2019/0151(COD)] provides for the adoption of a Strategic Innovation Agenda (‘SIA’).

Amendment  3

Proposal for a decision

Recital 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(2) The SIA should define the priority fields and the long-term strategy for the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (‘EIT’) and include an assessment of its socio-economic impact and its capacity to generate best innovation added value. The SIA should take into account the results of the monitoring and evaluation of the EIT.	(2) Article 4(1) of Regulation (EU) .../2020 [EIT Regulation (2019/0151(COD)] provides that the SIA is to set out  astrategy, objectives and priorities for the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (‘EIT’) for the seven-year period concerned, to establish its key actions, the targeted results and the resources needed and include an assessment of its social, economic and ecological impact and its capacity to generate best innovation added value. The SIA should take into account the results of the monitoring and evaluation of the EIT and should aim to ensure consistency with Horizon Europe, while providing synergies with other relevant Union programmes, contributing to the implementation of Union strategic priorities and to the realisation of Union objectives and policies, including the European Green Deal, the European Recovery Plan, the European data, digital, SME and industrial strategies and achieving Europe's strategic autonomy.

Amendment  4

Proposal for a decision

Recital 3

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(3) The SIA should include an analysis of potential and appropriate synergies and complementarities between EIT activities and other Union initiatives, instruments and programmes.	(3) In accordance with Article 4(2) of Regulation (EU) .../2020 [EIT Regulation (2019/0151(COD)], the SIA is to include an analysis of potential and appropriate synergies and complementarities between EIT activities and other Union initiatives, instruments and programmes.

Amendment  5

Proposal for a decision

Article 1 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The Strategic Innovation Agenda of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology for the period from 2021 to 2027 as set out in the Annex is hereby adopted.	The Strategic Innovation Agenda of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology for the period from 2021 to 2027 (the ‘SIA’) as set out in the Annex is hereby adopted.

Amendment  6

Proposal for a decision

Article 2 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The SIA shall be implemented in accordance with Regulation (EU) No on the European Institute of Innovation and Technology6 .	The SIA shall be implemented in accordance with Regulation (EU) .../2020 [EIT Regulation (2019/0151(COD)].
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6 Reference to the adopted recast EIT Regulation.

Amendment  7

Proposal for a decision

Article 3 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
This Decision shall enter into force on the day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.	This Decision shall enter into force twenty days after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Amendment  8

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
This Strategic Innovation Agenda (SIA) sets out the strategy and priorities for the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) for the period 2021-2027. It represents the main policy document of the EIT over the next programming period and defines its objectives, key actions, expected results and resources needed. The SIA ensures the necessary alignment of the EIT with the [Horizon Europe proposal], which is the Union framework programme supporting research and innovation for the period 2021-2027. It also ensures appropriate synergies and complementarities between the EIT activities and other Union initiatives, policies and instruments.	This Strategic Innovation Agenda (SIA) sets out the strategy and priorities for the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) for the period 2021-2027. It represents the main policy document of the EIT over the next programming period and defines its objectives, key actions, expected results and impact and resources needed. The SIA ensures the necessary alignment of the EIT with the [Horizon Europe proposal], which is the Union framework programme for research and innovation for the period 2021-2027. It also ensures appropriate synergies and complementarities between the EIT activities and other Union programmes, policies, instruments and commitments.

Amendment  9

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The SIA 2021-2027 is informed by the impact assessment carried out by the European Commission. It takes into account the draft SIA from the EIT Governing Board submitted to the European Commission on 20 December 2017, in accordance with the EIT Regulation21 . It also reflects the new [Horizon Europe proposal] of the European Commission of June 2018 and, in particular, the key role of the EIT as part of the [Open Innovation] Pillar (Pillar III), and its contribution to addressing global challenges, including established targets for climate objectives, and European industrial competitiveness (Pillar II) and to excellent science (Pillar I). The SIA builds on the lessons learnt over the last years of operation of the EIT and the results of a wide consultation process with key stakeholders.	The SIA 2021-2027 is informed by the impact assessment carried out by the European Commission. It takes into account the draft SIA from the EIT Governing Board submitted to the European Commission on 20 December 2017, in accordance with the ... [EIT Regulation (2019/0151/COD)] 21 . It also reflects the new [Horizon Europe proposal] of the European Commission of June 2018 and, in particular, the key role of the EIT as part of the [Open Innovation] Pillar (Pillar III), and its contribution to addressing global and societal challenges, including established targets and commitments for climate objectives and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and European industrial competitiveness (Pillar II) and to excellent science (Pillar I). The SIA builds on the lessons learnt over the last years of operation of the EIT and the results of a wide consultation process with key stakeholders.
__________________	__________________
21Regulation (EC) No 294/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 March 2008 establishing the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (OJ L 97, 9.4.2008, p. 1). Amended by Regulation (EU) No 1292/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 (OJ L 347, 11.12.2013, p. 174).	21Regulation (EC) No 294/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 March 2008 establishing the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (OJ L 97, 9.4.2008, p. 1). Amended by Regulation (EU) No 1292/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 (OJ L 347, 11.12.2013, p. 174).

Amendment  10

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The SIA takes into account the Strategic Planning of Horizon Europe to ensure alignment with the Framework Programme activities, with other relevant Union programmes and consistency with EU priorities and commitments and increase complementarity and synergies with national and regional funding programmes and priorities.	The SIA takes into account the Strategic Planning of Horizon Europe to ensure alignment with the Framework Programme activities, as well as synergies and complementarity with other relevant Union programmes and consistency with EU priorities and commitments. It also aims to increase complementarity and synergies with national and regional funding programmes and priorities.

Amendment  11

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.1 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT was established in 2008 in order to contribute to sustainable economic growth and competitiveness by reinforcing the innovation capacity of the Member States and the European Union. It pioneered the integration of education, business and research (knowledge triangle) together with a strong emphasis on entrepreneurial talent and innovation skills. The mid-term evaluation of the EIT in 2018 confirmed that the overarching rationale of the EIT remains valid and the model of innovation-driven knowledge triangle integration remains relevant.	The EIT was established in 2008 in order to contribute to sustainable economic growth and competitiveness by reinforcing the innovation capacity of the Member States and the European Union. It pioneered the integration of higher education, research and innovation (knowledge triangle) together with a strong emphasis on entrepreneurial talent, business creation and innovation skills. The mid-term evaluation of the EIT in 2017 confirmed that the overarching rationale of the EIT remains valid and the model of innovation-driven knowledge triangle integration remains relevant.

Amendment  12

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.1 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
A decade after EIT’s establishment, the pace of innovation has accelerated dramatically. Innovation is reshaping economic sectors, disrupting existing businesses and creating unprecedented opportunities. With a shifting global economic order and international competition on the rise, the EU’s dependence on talent and its capacity to innovate is growing. Co-design, collaboration and co-creation across disciplines and between education, business and research have never been as important as today to contribute to address global challenges related to climate change and unsustainable use on natural recources, digital transformation, demographic shifts or the future of healthcare and food.	A decade after the EIT’s establishment, the pace of innovation has accelerated dramatically. Innovation is reshaping economic sectors and society, disrupting existing businesses and creating unprecedented opportunities. With a shifting global economic order, increasing impact of climate change and international competition on the rise, the EU’s dependence on talent and its capacity to innovate is growing. Co-design, collaboration and co-creation across disciplines and between education, business and research have never been as important as today to contribute to addressing global challenges related to for example healthcare, including the spread of pandemics, food, climate change and unsustainable use on natural resources, digital transformation and demographic shifts.

Justification

Linguistic adjustments.

Amendment  13

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.2 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Since its set up, the EIT has established itself gradually as a successful instrument addressing societal challenges. The EIT operates mainly through Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs), which are large-scale European partnerships between education and training, business and research organisations. There are currently eight KICs that operate in the following areas: climate change, digital transformation, energy, food, health, raw materials, urban mobility and added-value manufacturing (see Figure 2).	Since its set up, the EIT has established itself gradually as a unique instrument addressing societal challenges through the integration of the knowledge triangle. The EIT operates mainly through Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs), which are large-scale European partnerships between higher education and training, business and research organisations and institutions. There are currently eight KICs that operate in the following areas: climate change, digital transformation, energy, food, health, raw materials, urban mobility and added-value manufacturing.

Amendment  14

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.2 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Each KIC is organised around five to ten of co-location centres (CLCs22 ) which are intended to act as geographical hubs for the practical integration of the knowledge triangle. They are organised and structured according to their respective national and regional innovation context and build on a pan-European network of existing labs, offices or campuses of a KICs’ core partners.	Each KIC has so far been organised into between five and ten co-location centres (CLCs22 ) which are intended to act as geographical hubs that also provide a physical space for local interaction within the innovation ecosystem and for the practical integration of the knowledge triangle. They are organised and structured according to their respective national and regional innovation context and build on a pan-European network of existing labs, offices or campuses of a KICs’ core partners.
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22 A ‘Co-location centre’ is a geographical area where the main KICs knowledge triangle partners are based and can easily interact, providing the focal point for the KICs’ activity in that area.	22 A ‘Co-location centre’ means a physical space, established in an open and transparent manner, covering a geographical area where a main KICs knowledge triangle partners can easily interact, providing the focal point for the KICs’ activity in that area.

Amendment  15

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.2 – paragraph 3 – introductory part

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The KICs aim at running portfolios of knowledge triangle activities through:	The KICs aim to run portfolios of knowledge triangle activities through:

Amendment  16

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.2 – paragraph 3 – indent 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
— Education and training activities with strong entrepreneurship components to train the next generation of talents, including the design and implementation of programmes awarded the EIT Label23 , in particular at master and doctoral level;	(a) higher education and training activities within the knowledge triangle with strong entrepreneurship components to train the next generation of talents, including with a view to the development of entrepreneurship and digital skills, programmes and activities aiming to re-skill and up-skill human resources in a lifelong learning perspective; design and implementation of programmes awarded the EIT Label23 , in particular at master and doctoral level; special attention shall be dedicated to gender balance and gender-sensitive approaches, especially in areas where women are still under represented such as ICT, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics;
__________________	__________________
23 The EIT Label is a quality seal awarded by the EIT to a KIC’s educational programme which complies with specific quality criteria related inter alia to entrepreneurial education and innovative ‘learning-by-doing’ curricula.	23 The EIT Label is a quality seal awarded by the EIT to a KIC’s educational programme which complies with specific quality criteria related inter alia to entrepreneurial education and innovative ‘learning-by-doing’ curricula.

Amendment  17

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.2 – paragraph 3 – indent 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
— Activities supporting innovation to develop innovative, products, processes and services that address a specific business opportunity;	(b) activities supporting research and innovation to develop innovative and sustainable products, processes, technologies services and non-technological solutions that address a specific business opportunity or social objective;

Amendment  18

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.2 – paragraph 3 – indent 3

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
— Business creation and support activities, such as accelerator schemes to help entrepreneurs translate their ideas into successful ventures and speed up the growth process.	(c) business creation and support activities, such as accelerator schemes to help entrepreneurs translate their ideas into successful ventures and speed up the growth and development process.

Amendment  19

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.2 – paragraph 3 a (new)

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	Nevertheless, all current and future KICs shall use best efforts to dedicate more attention towards research embedded in the knowledge triangle contributing with education and innovation, to entrepreneurial development and an innovation ecosystem. Thereby all existing and future KICs shall ensure a balance between the three sides of the knowledge triangle, in order to preserve the unique feature of the KICs.

Amendment  20

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.2 – paragraph 4

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The KICs represent dynamic innovation ecosystems that produce a wide range of results (see Figure 1 below).	deleted

Amendment  21

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.2 – figure 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
[...]	deleted

Amendment  22

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.2 – paragraph 5

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Education and training, talent and skills development are at the core of the EIT model. No other EU action on innovation includes higher education in the innovation value chain to the extent the EIT does. The EIT’s education agenda is key for developing highly entrepreneurial and skilled innovators. By 2017, more than 1700 graduates have successfully completed an EIT-labelled master and/or doctoral programme, and thousands have participated in entrepreneurial and innovative education activities and formats.	Education and training, talent and skills development are at the core of the EIT model. No other EU action on innovation includes higher education in the innovation value chain to the extent the EIT does. The EIT’s education agenda is key for developing highly entrepreneurial and skilled innovators.

Amendment  23

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.2 – paragraph 6

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The focus on global challenges through the integration of the knowledge triangle distinguishes the EIT from other innovation instruments. By providing a grant for up to 15 years to KICs, the EIT is delivering on its long-term objective of tackling global challenges through innovative products and services and bringing concrete benefits to our society and citizens. The EIT also has set the objective to the KICs to become financially sustainable after 15 years, which is a unique feature that leads to a business and result oriented innovation instrument. In this context, KICs have to develop and implement revenue-creating strategies in order to maintain their innovation ecosystem beyond the period covered by the grant agreement.	The focus on global and societal challenges through the integration of the knowledge triangle distinguishes the EIT from other innovation instruments. By providing a grant for up to 15 years to KICs, the EIT is delivering long-term stability which should allow the beneficiaries to address global and societal challenges through innovative and sustainable products, processes, services and solutions and bring concrete benefits to our society and citizens. The EIT also has set the objective to the KICs to become financially sustainable after 15 years, which is a unique feature that should lead to a business and impact oriented innovation instrument. In this context, KICs have to develop and implement revenue-creating strategies in close cooperation with the EIT, in order to achieve financial independence and maintain their innovation ecosystem beyond the period covered by the framework partnership agreement with the EIT. The innovation and close-to-market activities of the KICs should be financially sustainable at the earliest possible date and in any event within 15 years of their establishment. However, pursuant to Article 11 of ... [the Regulation on EIT], higher education, training and horizontally-structured activities of KICs should have the possibility to continue to receive EIT funding, after a positive and thorough evaluation by independent experts.

Amendment  24

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.2 – paragraph 7

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT approach contributes to both incremental and disruptive innovations to happen, to effectively address market failures and help transform industries. It enables the creation of long-term business strategies for addressing global challenges and helps creating the framework conditions that are essential for a well-functioning innovation ecosystem to grow and innovation to thrive.	The EIT approach helps build resilience, increase sustainability and contributes to both incremental and disruptive innovations to happen, to effectively address market failures and help transform industries and support the creation of start-ups, spin-offs and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It enables the creation of long-term business strategies for addressing global and societal challenges and helps create the framework conditions that are essential in order for a well-functioning innovation ecosystem to grow and innovation to thrive.

Amendment  25

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.2 – paragraph 8

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT offers an efficient and effective platform for launching, scaling up and managing KICs with strong network effects and positive spill-overs (see Figure 2 below). The first wave of KICs (EIT Digital, EIT Climate-KIC and EIT InnoEnergy), launched in 2009, is established and mature and after 2024 their framework partnership agreements will be terminated, in line with the maximum grant duration. A second and third generation of KICs (EIT Health and EIT Raw Materials (2014), EIT Food (2016)) is maturing. EIT Urban Mobility and EIT Manufacturing, the two KICs designated in December 2018, are starting their operations in 2019.	The EIT offers an efficient and effective platform for launching, scaling up and managing KICs with strong network effects and positive spill-overs. A KIC usually has a lifespan of seven to fifteen years. The first wave of KICs (EIT Digital, EIT Climate-KIC and EIT InnoEnergy), launched in 2009, is established and mature and after 2024 their framework partnership agreements should be terminated, in accordance with Article 11 of the Regulation on EIT. A possible extension of the framework partnership agreement may be decided by the EIT Governing Board, after a thorough evaluation by independent experts. That extension shall not exceed three years. A second and third generation of KICs (EIT Health and EIT Raw Materials (2014), EIT Food (2016)) is maturing. EIT Urban Mobility and EIT Manufacturing, the two KICs designated in December 2018, started their operations in 2019.

Amendment  26

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.2 – figure 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
[…]	deleted

Amendment  27

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.2 – paragraph 9

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Through its eight KICs with more than 1000 partners from business, research and education, the EIT represents the largest EU-supported innovation ecosystem. The EIT has supported more than 1200 start-ups and innovative ventures, leading to over EUR 890 million in external funding attracted by those companies and more than 6000 jobs created by the supported start-ups. More than 50% of KIC partners are from the business sector (industry, SMEs and start-ups) demonstrating the proximity to the market. The increase in number of partners in each KIC shows the attractiveness and long-term potential of the EIT model. By 2019, there are more than 600 businesses, 250 HEIs, 200 research organisations, and more than 50 civil society organisations and authorities participating in EIT KICs.	Through its eight KICs with more than 1000 partners from business, research and education, the EIT represents the largest EU-supported innovation ecosystem. The EIT has supported more than 1200 start-ups and innovative ventures, leading to over EUR 890 million in external funding attracted by those companies and more than 6000 jobs created by the supported start-ups. More than 50% of KIC partners are from the business sector (industry, SMEs and start-ups) demonstrating the proximity to the market.

Amendment  28

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.2 – paragraph 10

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
In the backdrop of persisting regional disparities in innovation performance, the EIT launched a Regional Innovation Scheme (RIS) in 2014 to widen its regional outreach to modest and moderate innovator countries. Through the RIS, the EIT has expanded its activities across Europe and offers now opportunities for regions with low innovation performance to engage in knowledge triangle activities as part of the a KIC community. This is also reflected in the share of EIT funding allocated to EU-13 partners (8.3% as compared to 4.8% in Horizon 2020 as of 2018).	Against the backdrop of persisting regional disparities in innovation performance, the EIT launched a Regional Innovation Scheme (RIS) in 2014 to widen its regional outreach to modest and moderate innovator countries and regions. Through the RIS, the EIT has to further expand its activities across Europe and must be dedicated to offering new opportunities to countries and regions in those countries with lower innovation performance, as defined in point (15a) of Article 2 of Regulation [xxx] establishing Horizon Europe as well as, to the extent that they are not low R&I performing countries, in countries or regions of those countries that are classified as modest or moderate innovators in the European Innovation Scoreboard, to engage in knowledge triangle activities as part of the EIT community. The RIS will also be used to establish new EIT Innovation Hubs or CLCs in those countries or regions. In addition, the KICs shall work closely with managing authorities in all regions where RIS partners are established in order to encourage a broader use of the Union’s ESI funds for R&I.

Amendment  29

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.2 – figure 3

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
[…]	deleted

Amendment  30

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.2 – paragraph 11

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT has been able to stay agile and to develop the governance principles and rules for the successful management of its KICs under the overall umbrella of Horizon 2020, in accordance with the EIT Regulation. Its operational independence has allowed it to test and effectively implement a number of novelties in the management of its beneficiaries such as a competitive funding mechanism, financial sustainability targets and specific key performance indicators.	The EIT has been able to stay agile and to develop the governance principles and rules for the successful management of its KICs under the overall umbrella of Horizon 2020, in accordance with ... [EIT Regulation (2019/0151/COD). Its operational independence has allowed it to test and effectively implement a number of novelties in the management of its beneficiaries such as a competitive funding mechanism, which should become the standard funding regime, financial sustainability targets and specific key performance indicators. The EIT and its KICs shall, as much as possible, operate under the Horizon Europe model grant agreement and shall apply the derogations from the Horizon Europe rules laid down in Article 8 of Regulation ... [EIT Regulation] when required to meet their objectives  and when duly justified.

Amendment  31

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.3 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT is part of the overall Horizon Europe framework that aims, inter alia, to deliver scientific, economic/technological and societal impact so as to strengthen the scientific and technological bases of the Union; deliver on the Union strategic policy priorities, foster its competitiveness in all Member States, including in its industry, and contribute to tackling global challenges, including the Sustainable Development Goals. A core condition for being successful in this endeavor is to respond to the persisting need to increase innovation capacity across the Union. There are in particular three challenges the EU faces that will guide EIT’s actions in 2021-2027 as reflected by its general objectives.	The EIT is an integral part of the overall Horizon Europe framework that aims, inter alia, to deliver scientific, economic/technological and societal impact so as to strengthen the scientific and technological bases of the Union. The EIT and the KICs’ objectives must contribute to the implementation of the Union strategic priorities and to the realisation of Union objectives and policies including the European Green Deal, the European Recovery Plan, the European data, digital, SME and industrial strategies and achieving Europe's strategic autonomy. Furthermore, it shall contribute to tackling global and societal challenges, including the SDGs by following the principles of the Paris Agreement, and achieving a net-zero GHG economy by 2050 at the latest. A core condition for being successful in this endeavor is to respond to the persisting needs to involve all talents in the Union, increase the participation of women, and to bring R&D to the market and society, thus increasing innovation capacity across the Union. There are in particular five challenges the EU faces that will guide EIT’s actions in 2021-2027 as reflected by its general objectives.

Amendment  32

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.3 – paragraph 1 a (new)

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	First, the economic shock linked with the spread of COVID-19 has had a major impact on universities, researchers, companies and other EIT stakeholders. It is important to identify and tackle related challenges, in particular access to finance, in order to safeguard the knowledge triangle and rebuild trust and confidence among all actors. In the medium term, all KICs must adapt to the impacts of the shock and re-orient their focus and activities, therefore they need to be agile and flexible in order to seek new opportunities. There might also be long-term effects on our society and economy, such as the need to increase the robustness and reduce the complexity of supply chains, to monitor the shifts in consumer demand, to strengthen the re-industrialisation and re-shoring of strategic production and to accompany the digital transformation.

Amendment  33

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.3 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
First, today’s economies are increasingly driven by the skills and abilities of people and organisations to turn ideas into products and services. Innovation skills and an entrepreneurial culture make all the difference today, in particular in the technological and scientific domains but increasingly also in other disciplines. There is a strong need to further boost the innovation capacity of higher education institutions in Europe. The EIT is in a unique position to deliver on this in the Horizon Europe framework.	Second, today’s societies and economies are increasingly driven by the skills and abilities of people and organisations to turn ideas into novel products, processes, services, businesses and societal models. Innovation, entrepreneurial culture, market uptake of innovative solutions and increased investments in education and RDI will make all the difference if the Union wants to succeed in its transition towards a competitive, digital, decarbonised and inclusive society. There is a strong need to further boost collaboration between disciplines and interdisciplinary learning as well as the innovation capacity of higher education institutions and other research organisations in Europe. The EIT is in a unique position to deliver on this in the Horizon Europe framework.

Amendment  34

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.3 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Second, physical proximity is a key enabling factor for innovation. Initiatives aiming at developing innovation networks and providing services that support the creation, sharing and transfer of knowledge, play a key role in fostering the interactions between business, academia, research organisations, governments and individuals. Still, research and innovation performances across the EU, as reflected in the annual European Innovation Scoreboard, vary considerably. It is of crucial importance that innovation is inclusive and rooted in the local territories. EIT activities, thanks to their “place-based” approach, are well suited to contribute to strengthening local innovation ecosystems.	Third, proximity is a key enabling factor for innovation. Initiatives aiming to develop innovation networks and providing services that support the creation, sharing and transfer of knowledge, play a key role in fostering the interactions between business, academia, research organisations, governments and individuals. Still, research and innovation performances across the EU, as reflected in the annual European Innovation Scoreboard, vary considerably as recognised in Horizon Europe. It is of crucial importance that innovation is inclusive and rooted in the local territories, with a particular attention to the increased involvement of SMEs and third-sector organisations. EIT activities, thanks to their “place-based” approach, are well suited to contribute to strengthening local and regional innovation ecosystems and provide new models for a sustainable economy. The EIT and the KICs activities have yet to become increasingly linked to regional and Smart Specialisation Strategies.

Amendment  35

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.3 – paragraph 3 a (new)

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	Fourth, talent circulation and R&I opportunities vary greatly between Member States. The EIT shall adopt measures to extend its geographical coverage in the Union, to decrease concentration of the KICs’ financial distribution, to tackle the brain drain in particular from eastern and southern Member States, and to promote circulation of students, researchers and entrepreneurs.

Amendment  36

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 1 – point 1.3 – paragraph 4

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Finally, vibrant innovation ecosystems require a mix of knowledge, infrastructure and talent. Framework conditions for cooperation between European research, education and innovation along with strong synergies need to be in place to ensure proper and efficient investment of scarce resources into research and innovation. Deepening the knowledge triangle integration through existing and new KICs is a proven way to foster an environment conducive to innovation and is a guiding objective for the EIT.	Finally, vibrant innovation ecosystems require a mix of knowledge, investment, infrastructure and talent. Framework conditions for cooperation between European research, education and innovation along with strong synergies need to be in place to ensure proper and efficient investment of scarce resources and to leverage other sources of funding aimed at financial sustainability. Deepening the knowledge triangle integration through existing and new KICs reaching out and integrating new partners in other sectors and other regions is a proven way to foster an environment conducive to innovation and is a guiding objective for the EIT.

Amendment  37

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 2 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT as an integral part of the Horizon Europe programme will contribute delivering on its overarching objectives and priorities. The KICs will be part of the Institutionalised European Partnerships, meaning they will follow a set of principles and life-cycle criteria to ensure a more coherent, open and impact-driven approach. The EIT general objectives therefore reflect the overall role of the EIT in Horizon Europe and its place in the [Innovative Europe Pillar].	The EIT as an integral part of the Horizon Europe programme will contribute delivering on its overarching objectives and priorities. Within Horizon Europe, the KICs are considered as European Partnerships, meaning they will follow the principles and life-cycle criteria as established in Article 8 of and Annex III to Regulation [xxx] [establishing Horizon Europe]. The EIT general objectives therefore reflect the overall role of the EIT in Horizon Europe and its place in the [‘Innovative Europe’ Pillar]. Therefore the EIT shall work closely with other implementing bodies under the Innovative Europe Pillar of Horizon Europe and use best efforts to contribute to a “one-stop-shop for innovation”.

Amendment  38

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 2 – paragraph 1 a (new)

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	The EIT is driven by excellence. It shall encourage higher-quality integration of the knowledge triangle also in new innovation communities. Geographical spread is another key element, and to that end, KICs shall be open and transparent throughout the implementation of their activities.

Amendment  39

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 2 – point 2.1 – paragraph 1 – introductory part

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The overarching areas of intervention for the EIT are defined in the [Horizon Europe proposal]. The EIT will continue to support its Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs) in order to strengthen the innovation ecosystems that help to tackle global challenges. It will do so by fostering the integration of education, research and business, thereby creating environments conducive to innovation, and by promoting and supporting a new generation of entrepreneurs and stimulating the creation of innovative companies in close synergy and complementarity with the EIC. In doing so it will in particular:	The overarching areas of intervention for the EIT are defined in Annexes I and Ia to Regulation [xxx] establishing Horizon Europe. The EIT will continue to support its Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs) in order to strengthen the innovation ecosystems that help to tackle global and societal challenges, in full alignment with Horizon Europe. It will do so by fostering the integration of higher education, research and business, thereby creating environments conducive to innovation, and by promoting and supporting a new generation of entrepreneurs, tackling also the gender dimension and the entrepreneurial gender gap, and stimulating the creation of innovative companies, with special attention to SMEs, in close synergy and complementarity with the EIC. In doing so it shall in particular:

Amendment  40

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 2 – point 2.1 – paragraph 1 – point 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(2) Foster innovation and entrepreneurship through better education;	(2) Foster innovation and entrepreneurship and skills development, supporting the entrepreneurial transformation of higher education institutions, a more inclusive, high-quality education and mentoring, in a lifelong learning perspective, and cross-border exchange programmes in the Union;

Amendment  41

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 2 – point 2.1 – paragraph 1 – point 3

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(3) Bring new solutions to global challenges to market.	(3) Create new solutions to global and societal challenges.

Amendment  42

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 2 – point 2.1 – paragraph 2 – introductory part

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
In line with the identified challenges that the EIT is facing (described in chapter 1.3.) and in order to contribute to the above overarching objectives defined for the EIT in the [Horizon Europe proposal], the specific objectives of the EIT for the period of 2021-2027 are to:	In line with the identified challenges that the EIT is facing (described in chapter 1.3.) and in order to contribute to the above overarching objectives defined for the EIT in Annexes I and Ia to Regulation [xxx] establishing Horizon Europe, the specific objectives of the EIT for the period of 2021-2027 are to:

Amendment  43

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 2 – point 2.1 – paragraph 2 – point a

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(a) Increase the impact of KICs and knowledge triangle integration;	(a) Increase the impact of KICs and their transparency, and boost knowledge triangle integration;

Amendment  44

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 2 – point 2.1 – paragraph 2 – point a a (new)

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(a a) Increase the openness of the KICs by including a wider range of stakeholders across the Union;

Amendment  45

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 2 – point 2.1 – paragraph 2 – point b

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(b) Increase the innovation capacity of the higher education sector by promoting institutional change in higher education institutions (HEIs);	(b) Increase the entrepreneurial and innovation capacity of the higher education sector across the Union by guiding and monitoring KICs in promoting better integration in the innovation ecosystems and an institutional change in higher education institutions (HEIs);

Amendment  46

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 2 – point 2.1 – paragraph 2 – point c

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(c) Increase the regional outreach of the EIT in order to address regional disparities in innovation capacity across the EU.	(c) Increase the regional outreach of the EIT and its KICs, as well as ensure better dissemination and exploitation of results, in order to address regional disparities in innovation capacity across the EU and within individual Member States to ensure a balanced geographical coverage.

Amendment  47

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 2 – point 2.1 – paragraph 2 – point c a (new)

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(c a) Implement a two-year crisis response programme with the necessary flexibility to be able to contribute to protecting the current innovation ecosystems and to help EIT stakeholders prepare for the economic recovery.

Amendment  48

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 2 – point 2.2 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
By delivering on these objectives, the EIT will contribute to the overall achievement of Horizon Europe scientific, economic/technological and societal impacts. It will continue to strengthen innovation ecosystems that help to tackle global challenges, by fostering the integration of the knowledge triangle in the areas of activity of the KICs. The Horizon Europe Strategic Planning process will ensure closer alignment between the EIT activities and the rest of Horizon Europe. Based on its proven track record, the EIT will play an important role in the Open Innovation Pillar.	By delivering on these objectives, the EIT will contribute to the overall achievement of Horizon Europe scientific, economic/technological and societal impacts. The Horizon Europe Strategic Planning process will ensure closer alignment between the EIT activities and the rest of Horizon Europe. The EIT will play an important role in the Innovative Europe Pillar and across the whole Horizon Europe.

Amendment  49

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 2 – point 2.2 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Strong synergies between the EIT and the European Innovation Council will be key for the impact of the [Innovative Europe] Pillar. The EIT and the EIC will run complementary activities aiming at streamlining the support provided to innovative ventures. Based on the expertise of its KICs, the EIT will provide business acceleration services and trainings to beneficiaries awarded EIC funding.	Strong synergies between all three implementing bodies of the [Innovative Europe] Pillar are required. The possibility of establishing a one-stop-shop for innovation shall be evaluated in the mid-term review of the EIT. That one-stop-shop could have at least three main strands: knowledge triangle integration; European innovation ecosystems; scaling up of R&I-intensive SMEs and start-ups. In particular, the EIT and the European Innovation Council will run complementary activities aiming to streamline the support provided to innovative companies, including business acceleration services and trainings.

Amendment  50

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 2 – point 2.2 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT will furthermore facilitate the access of EIC beneficiaries to KICs’ innovation ecosystems and relevant actors of the knowledge triangle. In this way EIC beneficiaries can become actively involved in KICs’ activities and benefit from KICs’ services. In parallel, EIT beneficiaries will be able to apply to the EIC instruments, when EIT KICs support may not be available. The EIC may help start-ups supported by KICs with a high growth potential to rapidly scale-up. In particular, the most innovative KICs’-backed ventures may, if selected under the EIC, benefit from the blended finance support offered by the EIC Accelerator and/or by the financial support offered by InvestEU instruments.	KICs should stimulate the creation of innovative companies in close synergy and complementarity with the EIC. The EIT will take an active part in the activities of the EIC Forum and will establish links between the EIT Community and relevant activities supporting innovation ecosystems in order to avoid duplication and ensure the coherence and complementarity of actions. The EIT will facilitate the access of EIC beneficiaries to KICs’ innovation ecosystems and relevant actors of the knowledge triangle. In this way EIC beneficiaries can become actively involved in KICs’ activities and benefit from KICs’ services. In parallel, EIT beneficiaries will be able to apply to the EIC instruments for support additional to the services provided by the EIT KICs. The EIC may help start-ups supported by KICs with a high growth potential to rapidly scale-up. In particular, the most innovative KIC-backed ventures may benefit from a fast-track access to EIC actions, in particular to the blended finance support offered by the EIC Accelerator and/or by the financial support offered by InvestEU instruments. In addition, the KICs shall identify the SMEs and startups in their community that need support to access national and European funds and financial schemes in order to ensure their survival. To this end, the KICs shall work in close collaboration with the EIT, the EIC and the national authorities.

Amendment  51

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 2 – point 2.2 – paragraph 4

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT will ensure stronger synergies also with programmes and initiatives in the [Excellent Science] Pillar, to accelerate the transfer of knowledge resulting from blue sky research into concrete applications benefiting the society. In particular, with regard to the Marie-Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA), the EIT will collaborate on the development of innovation and entrepreneurial skills of MSCA fellows.	The EIT will also ensure stronger synergies with all the missions and the relevant partnerships, as for example PRIMA, IMI, EDCTP, FCH, ECSEL and with programmes and initiatives in the [Excellent and Open Science] Pillar, to accelerate the transfer of knowledge resulting from blue sky research into concrete applications benefiting the society. In particular, with regard to the Marie-Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) and the ERC, the EIT will collaborate on the development of innovation and entrepreneurial skills of MSCA fellows and ERC grantees. That collaboration shall be made available on a voluntary basis and shall not increase the administrative burden for the beneficiaries.

Amendment  52

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 2 – point 2.2 – paragraph 5

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT will contribute to the [Global Challenges and Industrial Competitiveness] Pillar and complement relevant activities to tackle global challenges and increase the competitiveness of the EU on a global scale. In particular, through its KICs, the EIT will seek to contribute to relevant missions and thematic clusters and other European Partnerships by notably supporting demand-side measures and providing exploitation services to boost technology transfer and accelerate the commercialisation of results achieved.	The EIT will contribute to the [Global Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness] Pillar and complement relevant activities to tackle global and societal challenges and increase the sustainability and competitiveness of the EU on a global scale. In particular, through its KICs, the EIT will seek to contribute to relevant missions and thematic clusters and other European Partnerships by notably supporting demand-side measures and providing exploitation services to boost technology transfer and accelerate the commercialisation of results achieved.

Amendment  53

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 2 – point 2.2 – paragraph 7

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Opportunities for synergies will be also explored between the Sharing Excellence part of Horizon Europe and the outreach activities supported by the EIT. In particular, target countries of the Horizon Europe Sharing Excellence part will be able to leverage on EIT expertise and support for the development of downstream activities (i.e. close to market), as the target group for for EIT outreach activities.	Opportunities for synergies will be also explored between the Widening Participation and Spreading Excellence part of Horizon Europe and the RIS and other outreach activities supported by the EIT. The aim is to reach a more balanced representation of EIT activities across the Union. The EIT shall guide the KICs to help them make better use of the RIS. In particular, target countries of the Horizon Europe Spreading Excellence part will be able to leverage on EIT expertise and support for the development of downstream activities (i.e. close to market), as the target group for EIT outreach activities. The RIS budget shall also be used as leverage for ESI funds. Such synergies shall be used by the KICs to create funding schemes that are similar to the widening actions of the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (Teaming and Twinning).

Amendment  54

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
A reinforced role of the EIT, through a focus on actions where it will add value at the EU level and contribute to achieving the objectives of Horizon Europe, will guide the EIT strategy for 2021-2027. First, the EIT will continue to support the innovation capacity and ecosystems through KICs, their further development and expansion, and through the launch of new KICs. Secondly, building on its experience with the knowledge triangle integration, the EIT will directly support the development of the entrepreneurial and innovation capacity in the higher education sector. Finally, through more effective cross-cutting measures, the EIT will ensure that its impact at the EU level increases. In addition, the EIT will also improve its operations in a number of areas in order to increase its effectiveness, efficiency and impact.	A reinforced role of the EIT, through a focus on innovation-driven knowledge triangle integration, Union added value and contribution to achieving the objectives of Horizon Europe, will guide the EIT strategy for 2021-2027. First, the EIT shall continue to support the innovation capacity and ecosystems through KICs, their further development, openness, enhanced transparency, good governance and expansion, and through the launch of new KICs. Secondly, building on its experience with the knowledge triangle integration, the EIT shall monitor the development of the entrepreneurial and innovation capacity of higher education activities embedded in the knowledge triangle and implemented by the KICs. Finally, through more effective cross-cutting measures, the EIT shall make all necessary efforts to ensure that its visibility and impact at the EU level increases. In addition, the EIT will also improve its operations in a number of areas, such as guiding the KICs towards financial sustainability, the openness, outreach, transparency, quality and sustainability of its own activities and of the activities of the KICs, higher involvement of SMEs and start-ups, gender balance and geographical coverage, in order to increase its effectiveness, efficiency and impact.

Amendment  55

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.1 – point 1 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The integration of the knowledge triangle by the EIT and KICs at EU, Member States, regional and local levels will remain a core task for strengthening innovation ecosystems and making them sustainable, as well as for developing new solutions to global challenges. The EIT will continue support a portfolio of KICs (see Figure 2) and will further strengthen its successful platform for launching, growing and managing them. KICs will continue to operate through co-location centers (CLC). The KICs will continue to pursue financial sustainability in order to achieve financial independence from the EIT grant in the long-term (at the latest, after 15 years) through leveraging public and private investment.	The integration of the knowledge triangle by the EIT and KICs at EU, Member States, regional and local levels will remain a core task for strengthening innovation ecosystems and making them sustainable, as well as for developing new solutions to global and societal challenges. The EIT will continue to support a portfolio of KICs and will further strengthen its successful platform for launching, growing, monitoring, providing strategic supervision and guidance to them. KICs will continue to operate through CLCs selected after transparent open calls for proposals. The KICs will continue to pursue financial sustainability in order to achieve financial independence from the EIT grant in the long-term, aiming to reach such an objective, after 15 years of operation, through leveraging public and private investment. After the end of the 15th year of operation and based on an extension of the framework partnership agreement, KICs should be able to participate in certain EIT activities related, in particular, to education. Such an extension of the framework partnership agreement is to be decided by the Governing Board on the basis of a positive outcome of an evaluation made by independent external experts of the KICs' effectiveness and provided that they have reached a sufficient level of impact and financial sustainability. This will ensure that KICs are maintained in the EIT Community and that they continue to deliver certain results which cannot otherwise be achieved in a commercially viable manner.

Amendment  56

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.1 – point 1 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT will dedicate a large share of its budget to support KICs. It will monitor and analyse their performance and ensure they deliver towards the objectives of the EIT and of the Horizon Europe Programme. Beyond financial support, based on lessons learned, the EIT will provide strategic supervision to KICs, as well as guidance on horizontal and specific issues, including on the establishment of synergies within Horizon Europe and with other EU initiatives. In particular, the EIT will support KICs in establishing interfaces and fostering joint activities with relevant European Partnerships and other relevant Union initiatives and programmes.	The EIT shall dedicate a large share of its budget to support KICs. Based on the indicators listed in Annex V to Regulation [xxx] establishing Horizon Europe, the EIT shall monitor and analyse the performance, the leverage investments and the different qualitative and quantitative impacts. Beyond financial support, based on lessons learned, the EIT shall provide strategic supervision to KICs, as well as guidance on horizontal and specific issues, including on the establishment of synergies within Horizon Europe, with other EU and international initiatives. In particular, the EIT shall support KICs in establishing interfaces and fostering joint activities with relevant European Partnerships, Horizon Europe missions, the EIC and other relevant Union initiatives and programmes, and shall supervise the establishment of CLCs outside the Union. The EIT should make best efforts to streamline the terminology related to the structure of each KIC, with the purpose of further simplifying, clarifying and enhancing recognisability of the EIT.

Amendment  57

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.1 – point 1 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
It will also monitor the award of the EIT Label to KICs’ education and training programmes and explore a more effective quality assurance mechanism, including external recognition and accreditation for the EIT Label.	It shall also monitor, improve and strengthen the EIT Label that is awarded to KICs’ education, training, mentoring and re-skilling programmes, including online, and explore a more effective quality assurance mechanism, including external recognition and visibility for the EIT Label.

Amendment  58

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.1 – point 1 – paragraph 4

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT will facilitate shared services towards the KICs and exchanges of experiences and good practices between KICs and foster collaboration between them (cross-KIC activities) on both thematic and horizontal topics. Cross-KIC activities have highest potential where several KICs alreadyaddress common EU policy priorities where no dedicated KICs exist. Bringing together the different KICs communities in dedicated joint actions of mutual benefit has high potential for synergies and The EIT will boost such activitiesand take an active part in defining the content and structure of the cross-KIC activities. It will monitor the implementation of cross-KIC activities as well as the results achieved, with the aim of making those activities an integral part of the KICs’ strategies.	The EIT is to facilitate the establishment of EIT community shared services and facilities, aiming to jointly handle specific operational tasks that are common to several KICs. The EIT shall also facilitate exchanges of experiences and good practices between KICs and foster collaboration between them (cross-KIC activities) on both thematic and horizontal topics. Cross-fertilisation between different subject areas is increasingly important for creativity, innovation and business. Cross-KIC activities and dedicated joint actions have the highest potential for synergies and interdisciplinary benefits, especially where several KICs already address common EU policy priorities and where no dedicated KICs exist. The EIT shall boost such activities and take an active part in defining the content and structure of the cross-KIC activities. It shall monitor the implementation of cross-KIC activities as well as the results achieved, with the aim of ensuring the long-term sustainability of those activities as an integral part of the EIT and the KICs’ multi-annual strategies.

Amendment  59

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.1 – point 2 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT will further increase its regional impact through an enhanced openness towards potential partners and stakeholders and a better articulated regional strategy of KICs, including links to the relevant Smart Specialisation Strategies.	The EIT shall further increase its regional impact through an enhanced openness of the KICs towards a wide range of potential partners and stakeholders, a balanced geographical coverage, a strengthened dissemination and exploitation of results and a better articulated regional strategy of KICs. Each KIC shall elaborate such regional strategy as an integral part of their multi-annual business plans aiming to strengthen the relationship with regional and local innovation actors, including SMEs. Where relevant, KICs should demonstrate links with Smart Specialisation Strategies and with the activities of thematic platforms and interregional initiatives, including with the Managing Authorities of ESI Funds. The EIT shall continuously monitor the implementation of those territorial strategies including the leverage effect on the ESI Funds.
	The EIT shall also monitor how CLCs operate and how they integrate in the local innovation ecosystems. In addition, KICs shall enhance such integration also through the establishment of Innovation Hubs, which should serve as an entry point for interacting with regional and local knowledge triangle actors. The Innovation Hubs can help establish synergies, internationalise the local networks, identify funding and collaboration opportunities, provide advice to the public authorities and support the beneficiaries. The Innovation Hubs can also grow into CLCs.
	While excellence remains the main criterion, when selecting partners, projects or new co-location centres, particular attention shall be paid to building sustainable innovation structures and ecosystems in modest and moderate innovator countries and regions, especially if they are not yet part of the EIT Community. When it is strictly necessary to select between proposals of equal evaluation results, KICs are to give priority to those proposals that:
	(a) include a higher number of low R&I performing countries and regions or that are modest or moderate innovators, as defined in point (8) of Article 2 of EIT Regulation [xxx];
	(b) include a higher number of regions or countries that are not yet participating in the KIC community;
	(c) involve regions and countries that commit to contribute with ESI funds.

Amendment  60

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.1 – point 2 – paragraph 2 – introductory part

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT Regional Innovation Scheme, steered by the EIT and implemented by KICs, has been so far run on a voluntary basis. From 2021 on, the EIT RIS will become an integral part of the KIC’ multi-annual strategy. The EIT will continue to provide guidance and support to KICs in the preparation of multi-annual EIT RIS strategies and in their implementation. EIT RIS activities will continue with improved support to the innovation capacity of countries and regions that underperform in terms of innovation. The EIT budget devoted to implementing EIT RIS activities will be at least 10% of the overall EIT support funding to KICs, thereby increasing the number of KIC partners from targeted regions. Activities supported through the RIS will aim to:	The EIT Regional Innovation Scheme, steered by the EIT and implemented by KICs, has been so far run on a voluntary basis. From 2021 on, the EIT RIS shall become mandatory and an integral part of the KICs’ multi-annual strategies. The EIT shall ensure that RIS activities are used as a bridge towards the following:
	(i) relevant Research and Innovation Smart Specialisation Strategies thereby catalysing other investments, especially ESI funds;
	(ii) the integration of potential new partners thereby extending the KICs' geographical coverage.
	The EIT shall continue to provide guidance and support to KICs in the preparation and implementation of multi-annual EIT RIS strategies. RIS activities will continue with improved support to the innovation capacity of countries and regions, including outermost regions, that have low R&I performances or that are modest or moderate innovators, as defined in point (8) of Article 2 of EIT Regulation [xxx], and that have limited participation in the KICs’ activities. The EIT budget devoted to implementing EIT RIS activities shall be at least 15% of the overall EIT support funding to KICs, thereby facilitating an increased number of KIC partners from targeted regions. Activities supported through the RIS shall aim to:

 

Amendment  61

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.1 – point 2 – paragraph 2 – indent 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
— improve the innovation capacities of the local ecosystem, via capacity building activities and closer interactions between the local innovation actors (clusters, networks, regional authorities, HEIs, research organisations, VET institutions);	— contribute to improving the innovation capacities of the regional and local ecosystem across the Union, via capacity building activities and closer interactions between the regional and local innovation actors (clusters, networks, regional authorities, HEIs, research organisations, VET institutions);

Amendment  62

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.1 – point 2 – paragraph 2 – indent 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
— link local innovation ecosystems to pan-European innovation ecosystems through cooperation with EIT KICs and their co-locations centres.	— attract new partners in EIT KICs, extend the geographical coverage of EIT KICs also through the EIT Innovation Hubs and link local innovation ecosystems to pan-European innovation ecosystems through the attraction of new partners, extending the geographical coverage and the cooperation with EIT KICs and their co-locations centres.

Amendment  63

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.1 – point 2 – paragraph 2 – indent 2 a (new)

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	- leverage additional private and public funding, with particular attention to ESI Funds.

Amendment  64

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.1 – point 2 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
In addition, in order to ensure KICs’ deeper integration in local innovation ecosystems, each KIC will be required to develop and implement a strategy aiming at strengthening the relationship with regional and local innovation actors, and the EIT will actively monitor the implementation. A “place-based” innovation approach should be integrated within the KIC’s multi-annual strategy and business plan and build on KIC’s CLCs (and RIS), thus leveraging on their role as gateway for accessing a KIC community and interacting with the co-located partners. KICs should demonstrate links with local Smart Specialisation Strategies and with the activities of relevant thematic platforms and interregional initiatives, including the Managing Authorities of ESI Funds. The EIT will also monitor how CLCs operate and how they integrate in the local innovation ecosystems.	deleted

Amendment  65

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.1 – point 3 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
In order to contribute to addressing new and emerging global challenges, the EIT will launch new KICs in priority fields selected based on criteria assessing, among other aspects, their relevance to Horizon Europe policy priorities, and their potential and added value to be addressed through the EIT model. The launch of new KICs will take into account the Strategic Planning of Horizon Europe and the budget allocated to the EIT in 2021-2027. The relevant selection criteria for European Partnerships defined in Annex III of the [Horizon Europe Regulation] will be included in the KIC Call for proposals and assessed during the evaluation.	In order to contribute to addressing new and emerging global challenges, the EIT shall launch open and transparent calls to create new KICs in priority fields selected among thematic areas of strategic importance and based on criteria assessing, among other aspects, their relevance to the Union policy priorities with regard to addressing global and societal challenges, and their potential and added value to be addressed through the EIT model. The launch of new KICs shall take into account the Strategic Planning of Horizon Europe and the budget allocated to the EIT in 2021-2027. The relevant selection criteria for European Partnerships defined in Annex III of the [Horizon Europe Regulation] shall be included in the KIC Call for proposals and shall be assessed during the evaluation.

Amendment  66

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.1 – point 3 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Based on a proposal from the EIT Governing Board and an analysis thereof, a first KIC in the field of Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI) is proposed to be launched in 2022 with a call for proposals to be published in 2021. This priority field has the strongest complementarity with the eight KICs that have already been launched by the EIT, as well as with the potential priority areas for other European Partnerships to be launched in the framework of Horizon Europe. CCI are a sector with a high growth potential, many grass-roots initiatives and strong citizen appeal. They are strongly embedded in their local and regional ecosystems. However, CCI are still a very fragmented sector and the innovators and business creators lack the needed entrepreneurial and innovation skills. These bottlenecks would be best tackled by a KIC thanks to its knowledge triangle integration approach, long-term perspective and place-based approach. A factsheet summarizing the challenges of the CCI field and the expected impact of the future KIC is included in Annex 1B to this SIA.	Based on a proposal from the EIT Governing Board and an analysis thereof, a first KIC in the field of Cultural and Creative Sectors and Industries (CCSI) is proposed to be launched in 2022 with a call for proposals to be published in 2021. However, if the EIT Governing Board considers that further consultation of stakeholders is appropriate before launching the call for proposals, it may postpone the launch until 2022 for the purpose of establishing the KIC for CCSI in 2023.
	A second KIC in the field of Water, Marine and Maritime Sectors and Ecosystems (WaterKIC) is proposed to be launched in 2025, with a call for proposals to be published in 2024. However, the Commission, with the assistance of independent experts, shall carry out an impact assessment to evaluate the relevance of the field of Water, Marine and Maritime Sectors and Ecosystems by 2023. If the assessment has a negative result, the Commission shall propose an amendment to Annex 1A and Annex 1B, taking into account the contribution of the EIT Governing Board and the strategic planning process of Horizon Europe.

Amendment  67

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.1 – point 3 – paragraph 3 a (new)

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	The Water, Marine and Maritime Sectors and Ecosystems priority field covers a wide range of traditional and emerging economic sectors, which are intrinsically linked to an environmental natural capital that is under pressure. This field will play a crucial role in delivering a climate-neutral, sustainable and competitive Union by 2050, as new technologies and the need to decarbonise the economy are leading to an increasing use and exploitation of marine and aquatic resources. Seas, oceans and inland waters have a central role in climate processes, in human health and wellbeing, in the provision of food, the preservation of biodiversity, critical ecosystem services, renewable energy and other resources. Wastewater treatments will reduce the amount of energy used, the pathogenic bacteria during the sewage sludge dewatering and in general increase the plants’ efficiency and quality. This priority field is complementary to the eight existing KICs. A factsheet summarising the challenges of this field and the expected impact of the future KIC is included in Annex 1Ba to this SIA.

Amendment  68

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.1 – point 3 – paragraph 3 b (new)

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	The CCSI priority field has a strong complementarity with the eight KICs that have already been launched by the EIT, and also with the potential priority areas for other European Partnerships to be launched in the framework of Horizon Europe. Cultural and creative sectors have a high growth potential, many grass-roots initiatives and strong citizen appeal. They are strongly embedded in their local and regional ecosystems. However, cultural and creative industries and sectors  are still very fragmented and the innovators and business creators lack the necessary entrepreneurial and innovation skills. These bottlenecks would be best tackled by a KIC thanks to its knowledge triangle integration approach, long-term perspective and place-based approach. A factsheet summarising the challenges of this field and the expected impact of the future KIC is included in Annex 1B.

Amendment  69

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.1 – point 3 – paragraph 4

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Based on the proposed budget for the EIT, a second new KIC could be launched in 2025 with a call to be published in 2024, after an amendment to Annex 1A to add new priority field(s). The priority area(s) will be selected in light of the proposals of the EIT Governing Board. These proposals will take into account the priority areas to be identified in the Horizon Europe Strategic Research and Innovation Plan and the criteria set for the selection of European Partnerships, in particular openness, transparency, EU added value, coherence and synergies. The criteria for selecting new KICs will be aligned with those in the Horizon Europe. They will also support delivery on EU policy priorities such as missions and Sustainable Development Goals. Other new KIC/KICs could be selected in case additional budget to that of the EIT would become available.	Other new KICs could be selected if additional budget to that of the EIT becomes available and will take into account the priority areas in the proposal of the EIT Governing Board and in the Horizon Europe Strategic Research and Innovation Plan and the criteria set for the selection of European Partnerships, in particular openness, transparency, EU added value, contribution to the SDGs, coherence and synergies. Other new KIC/KICs could be selected if additional budget to that of the EIT would become available.

Amendment  70

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.1 – point 3 – table

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT will:	deleted
— Strengthen innovation ecosystems by continuing to support existing KICs in addressing global challenges through the integration of the knowledge triangle.
— Define areas of and promote stronger cross-KIC collaboration on topics of strategic and policy relevance.
— Ensure that KICs develop and implement a strategy to create collaboration and synergies with relevant European Partnerships and other relevant Union initiatives and programmes.
— Ensure that KICs have an inclusive approach aiming at strengthening their relationship with national, regional and local innovation actors.
— Ensure that EIT RIS activities deliver on increased regional impact and are fully integrated in KICs’ multi-annual strategies.
— Launch new KICs in selected thematic areas of strategic importance, starting with a KIC in the field of Cultural and Creative Industries in 2022.

Amendment  71

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.2 – introductory part

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
3.2. Supporting the innovation capacity of higher education	3.2. Supporting the entrepreneurial and innovation capacity of higher education

Amendment  72

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.2 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Through the knowledge triangle integration model, the EIT has helped to bridge the persistent gap between higher education, research and innovation. In particular, the EIT is a key tool for the development of human capital through its distinctive focus on entrepreneurial education. However, the impact of the EIT remains limited to the KICs’ partners.	Through the knowledge triangle integration model, the EIT has helped to bridge the persistent gap between higher education, research and innovation. In particular, the EIT and its KICs are key for the development of human capital through their distinctive focus on innovation and entrepreneurial education. However the impact of the EIT shall not be limited to the KICs’ partners, it shall rather be extended.

Amendment  73

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.2 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
To support innovation more widely, higher education institutions in Europe need to be innovative and entrepreneurial in their approach to education, research, and engagement with businesses and the broader local innovation ecosystem, including civil society.	To support innovation more widely, higher education institutions in Europe need to be innovative and entrepreneurial in their approach to education, research, and engagement with businesses and the broader local and regional innovation ecosystem, including civil society, public institutions and third-sector organisations, in the most inclusive and gender balanced way. Therefore, the KICs shall enhance regular higher education activities and further develop the entrepreneurial and innovative capacities of HEIs within the KICs activities.

Amendment  74

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.2 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Developing HEIs into more innovative and entrepreneurial organisations requires a clear strategy, a methodological framework and commitment of resources. Based on its experience, the EIT is uniquely positioned to support the development of entrepreneurial and innovation capacity of HEIs under Horizon Europe.	In cooperation with the Commission and based on input by the KICs, the EIT is to design and launch a higher education initiative to support the development of innovation and entrepreneurial capacity in the knowledge triangle, which will be implemented by and through the KICs. Based on the results of an evaluation by independent experts to be carried out at the end of the first three years after the launch of the higher education initiative, the EIT Governing Board shall decide whether the initiative should be continued, upscaled or discontinued.

Amendment  75

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.2 – paragraph 4

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Activities will be implemented by the EIT through the KICs in an open and targeted way which will aim at increasing the innovation capacity in higher education in order to integrate a wider number of HEIs in innovation value chains and ecosystems. These activities will complement the intervention of the EIT on education as core part of the Knowledge Triangle Integration activities of KICs, in particular through making them more open and accessible to non-partners of the KICs. The impact of the EIT would reach beyond the KICs and contribute to the EIT's core mission of boosting sustainable economic growth and competitiveness by reinforcing the innovation capacity of Member States, in line with the Horizon Europe goals of fostering entrepreneurial and innovation skills in a lifelong learning perspective, including increasing the capacities of HEIs across Europe.	Activities shall be implemented by the KICs in an open, transparent and targeted way which will aim to increase the innovation capacity in higher education in order to integrate HEIs that are not yet KIC partners in innovation value chains and ecosystems. These activities will complement the intervention of the EIT on education in each KICs’ Knowledge Triangle, in particular through making them more open and accessible to non-partners of the KICs.
	The higher education initiative implemented by KICs should improve, inter alia, the exchange of best practices on organisational learning, coaching and mentoring, the development of courses and training for upskilling and reskilling, the development of action plans to recognise needs in identified areas such as innovation management, start-up creation, sustainability and climate neutrality, technology transfer, intellectual property rights management, integration of gender approaches in innovation, engagement with local stakeholders, and other innovation capacity activities.
	KICs shall integrate their activities aiming to strengthen the innovation capacities of the HEIs in the multi-annual strategy. The activities shall have a reach beyond the KICs and contribute to the EIT's core mission of boosting European sustainable economic growth and competitiveness by reinforcing the innovation capacity of Member States, in line with the Horizon Europe goals of fostering entrepreneurial and innovation skills in a lifelong learning perspective, always taking into account the gender dimension.

Amendment  76

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.2 – paragraph 5

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT support will build on policy initiatives such as the HEInnovate24 and RIIA25 frameworks that have proven their value in a number of HEIs and Member States across the EU. The EIT will design the support activities in close collaboration with the Commission ensuring coherence and complementarity with relevant activities within Horizon Europe , Erasmusand other programmes. The specific details of the implementation and delivery mechanism process will be further developed and fine-tuned in the first three years and will be subject to monitoring and evaluation during this pilot phase before further upscaling.	The EIT and the KICs will build on policy initiatives such as European Universities, the HEInnovate24 and RIIA25 frameworks that have proven their value in a number of HEIs and Member States across the EU. The EIT shall support the KICs in designing activities in coherence and complementarity with relevant activities within Horizon Europe, Erasmus and other programmes. The specific details of the implementation and delivery mechanism process will be further developed and fine-tuned in the first three years of the higher education initiative and will be subject to monitoring.
__________________	__________________
24 HEInnovate is a policy framework developed by the European Commission and the OECD. HEInnovate offers HEIs a methodology to identify innovation capacity areas for further edvelopment and to shape relevant strategies and actions in order to achieve the desired impact. HEInnovate is based on sound methodological evidence with eight capacity development areas: Leadership and Governance; Digital Transformation; Organisational Capacity; Entrepreneurial Teaching and Learning; Preparing and Supporting Entrepreneurs; Knowledge Exchange; Internationalisation; and Measuring Impact. OECD has published a number of HEInnovate-based country reports, see OECD Skills Studies series at https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/education/	24 HEInnovate is a policy framework developed by the European Commission and the OECD. HEInnovate offers HEIs a methodology to identify innovation capacity areas for further edvelopment and to shape relevant strategies and actions in order to achieve the desired impact. HEInnovate is based on sound methodological evidence with eight capacity development areas: Leadership and Governance; Digital Transformation; Organisational Capacity; Entrepreneurial Teaching and Learning; Preparing and Supporting Entrepreneurs; Knowledge Exchange; Internationalisation; and Measuring Impact. OECD has published a number of HEInnovate-based country reports, see OECD Skills Studies series at https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/education/
25 The Regional Innovation Impact Assessment framework (RIIA) was developed by the European Commission as a first step in guiding assessments of the innovation impact of universities through the elaboration of metrics based case studies. Assessing the innovation impact, e.g. through the RIIA framework, could potentially be tied to innovation performance based funding instruments at the regional, national or EU level.	25 The Regional Innovation Impact Assessment framework (RIIA) was developed by the European Commission as a first step in guiding assessments of the innovation impact of universities through the elaboration of metrics based case studies. Assessing the innovation impact, e.g. through the RIIA framework, could potentially be tied to innovation performance based funding instruments at the regional, national or EU level.

Amendment  77

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.2 – paragraph 6

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT will play a steering and coordination role in the implementation and monitoring of the activities that will be run by the KICs. Particular attention will be paid to ensuring: an inclusive approach to attract HEIs beyond the KICs’ partners; an inter-disciplinary and inter-sectoral approach; and a link with the European Commission Smart Specialization Strategy, relevant thematic platforms and the EIT RIS.	Each KIC shall pay particular attention to ensuring: an open and inclusive approach to attract HEIs beyond the KICs’ partners aiming to ensure the widest geographical coverage possible; an inter-disciplinary and inter-sectoral approach; a broader participation of women in sectors where they are underrepresented; and a link with the European Commission Smart Specialization Strategy, relevant thematic platforms such as the Policy Support Facility and the EIT RIS.

Amendment  78

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.2 – paragraph 7

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT will link its support to developing innovation capacity in higher education to the EIT Label, which is awarded currently to the KICs’ education programmes. In particular, participating HEIs may be involved in the use of the EIT Label. The EIT will also extend the EIT Label to lifelong learning activities involving and reaching out to a wider target group of students, adult learners and institutions (including VET institutions) beyond the KICs. The application of the Label beyond the EIT community will have a more structuring effect at all levels (individual, programme and institution).	The EIT will support KICs in the implementation of the EIT Label, which is awarded to the KICs’ education programmes. Participating HEIs will be incentivised to use the EIT Label. The EIT KICs shall make better use of the EIT Label also extending its scope lifelong learning activities, mentoring, vocational training, skilling and re-skilling programmes, MOOCs, involving and reaching out to a wider target group of students, adult learners and institutions (including VET institutions) beyond the KICs’ partners. The application of the Label beyond the EIT KICs’ communities is expected to have a more structuring effect at all levels (individual, programme and institution). The EIT shall monitor the effectiveness of expanding the scope of the EIT label of the KICs’ educational and training programmes.

Amendment  79

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.2 – paragraph 8

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT will in particular target HEIs from countries that are moderate and modest innovators and other low performing regions that wish to strengthen their innovation footprint and Smart Specialisation Strategies. The EIT will allocate to this measure at least 25% of the overall budget allocated to these activities.	The KICs shall implement their higher education activities through open and transparent calls for proposals. KICs shall target HEIs across the Union, but in particular those from countries and regions that are moderate and modest innovators and other low performing regions that wish to strengthen their innovation footprint and Smart Specialisation Strategies. The EIT KICs shall allocate an adequate budget to these activities and the eligibility criteria to be included in the calls shall ensure that a significant number of the HEIs involved in the projects come from outside of the KIC.

Amendment  80

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.2 – table

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT will:	deleted
— In cooperation with the Commission, design and launch activities to support the development of innovation capacity in higher education, which will be implemented through the KICs, starting in 2021.
— Introduce an outreach scheme to incentivize HEIs from moderate and modest innovator countries to develop their innovation capacities.
— Provide specific guidance, expertise and coaching to participating HEIs.
— Strengthen and widen the scope of the EIT Label beyond the KICs to include the HEIs participating in the action.

Amendment  81

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.3 – point 1 – introductory part

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(1) Communication	(1) Communication and dissemination

Amendment  82

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.3 – point 1 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT will reinforce its communication and visibility. With a growing number of KICs and a new action supporting the entrepreneurial development of HEIs, the EIT will boost its efforts to increase its recognition as a quality brand for innovation. This brand management and improved communication is crucial especially towards citizens as the innovations coming out of the EIT contribute to demonstrate the concrete impact of EU investments through the European Research and Innovation Framework Programme. The EIT will apply an improved branding strategy towards its main stakeholders (HEIs, research organisation, businesses, etc.) in all Member States and beyond, in line with Horizon Europe communication approach.	The EIT and the KICs shall reinforce and improve their communication and visibility and apply an improved branding strategy towards their main stakeholders (HEIs, research organisations, start-ups and SMEs, third-sector organisations, etc.) in all Member States and beyond, in line with the Horizon Europe communication approach. With a growing number of KICs and new initiatives supporting the innovation and entrepreneurial capacity of HEIs, the EIT will boost its efforts to increase the recognition of Union support as a quality brand for innovation. This brand management and improved communication is crucial especially towards citizens, regional and national authorities as the innovations coming out of the EIT and EIC together contribute to demonstrate the concrete impact of EU investments through the European Research and Innovation Framework Programme.

Amendment  83

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.3 – point 1 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
In order to ensure wider dissemination and better understanding of the opportunities offered by the EIT, the EIT will explore the possibility to reinforce guidance and assistance on aspects related to participation in EIT KICs across Europe by building on existing networks of information across Europe.	In order to ensure wider dissemination and better understanding of the opportunities offered by the EIT, the EIT shall reinforce guidance and assistance on aspects related to participation in EIT KICs across Europe. The dedicated network of EIT country liaison officers, as part of the National Contact Points of Horizon Europe, shall build on existing networks of information across Europe contributing to increase the visibility and communication activities of the EIT and the KICs. In addition, they should support the national and regional authorities in identifying the necessary synergies with the multi-annual programmes of the KICs.

Amendment  84

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.3 – point 1 – paragraph 4

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
EIT will organise regular meetings of the Member States’ Representatives Group as well as Commission related services, at least twice a year, to ensure an appropriate communication and flow of information with Member States and at EU level, and keep them informed of the performances and achievements of the EIT-funded activities. The Member States’ Representatives Group shall also ensure appropriate support to liaise EIT-supported activities with national programmes and initiatives, including the potential national co-financing of those activities.	EIT will organise regular meetings with the Member States’ Representatives Group as well as Commission related services, the European Parliament and the Committee of the Regions, to ensure an appropriate communication and flow of information with Member States and at EU level, and keep them informed of the performances and achievements of the EIT-funded activities. The Member States’ Representatives Group shall also ensure appropriate support to liaise EIT-supported activities with national programmes and initiatives, including the potential national co-financing of those activities.

Amendment  85

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.3 – point 1 – paragraph 5

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT will continue running the EIT Stakeholder Forum and the EIT awards in order to promote the interactions with European actors of the knowledge triangle and recognise the most promising entrepreneurs and innovators in Europe.	The EIT shall continue running the EIT Stakeholder Forum and the EIT awards in order to promote the interactions with European actors of the knowledge triangle and recognise the most promising entrepreneurs and innovators in Europe.

Amendment  86

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.3 – point 2 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT has a key role in disseminating good practices and lessons learned. The KICs and the projects supporting innovation and entrepreneurial capacity of HEI are a valuable source of evidence and experimental learning for policy-makers, providing examples of good practices and support in the development and implementation of EU policy in their thematic domains.	The EIT has a key role in identifying, spreading and disseminating good practices and lessons learned. The EIT and the KICs, also through the EIT country liaison officer, shall engage with Member States’ national and regional authorities and the European Parliament, in particular with its Science and Technology Panel (STOA), to establish a structured dialogue, in order to identify, share and disseminate good practices, learnings and opportunities. The KICs and the projects supporting innovation and entrepreneurial capacity of HEI are a valuable source of evidence and experimental learning for policy-makers and RDI stakeholders, providing examples of good practices and support in the development and implementation of EU policy in their thematic domains.

Amendment  87

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.3 – point 2 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
So far, the good practices and learnings stemming from the KICs have not been sufficiently codified and disseminated effectively. In its support function as a knowledge partner for policy makers and the entire innovation community, the EIT will further develop its role as an innovation institute able to detect, analyse, codify, share and ensure the take-up of innovative practices, learnings and results from the EIT-funded activities (education & training, support to innovation, support to entrepreneurship) on a broader scale. This activity will build on the links and synergies with the other initiatives within the [Innovative Europe Pillar]of the [Horizon Europe proposal].	So far, the good practices and learnings stemming from the KICs have not been sufficiently pooled, codified and disseminated effectively. In its support function as a knowledge partner for policy makers and the entire RDI community, the EIT shall further develop its role as an innovation institute able to detect, analyse, codify, share and ensure the take-up of innovative practices, learnings and results from the EIT-funded activities (education and training, support to research and innovation, support to entrepreneurship) on a broader scale. This activity shall build on the links and synergies with the other initiatives within the Innovative Europe Pillar of Horizon Europe, in particular the European Innovation Council, the Missions and the European Partnerships.

Amendment  88

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.3 – point 3 – introductory part

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(3) International cooperation	(3) International cooperation and global outreach activities

Amendment  89

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.3 – point 3 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Within the scope of the EIT Regulation, the EIT will seek greater impact of its activities through international cooperation and will coordinate international EIT-funded activities by the KICs. Its focus will align closely with relevant industrial policy objectives of the European Union as well as its research and innovation priorities and ensuring European added value.	Within the scope of ... [EIT Regulation (2019/0151/COD)], the EIT will seek to ensure that its activities have a greater impact through international cooperation and international EIT-funded activities by the KICs.

Amendment  90

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.3 – point 3 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
In its international cooperation the EIT, in consultation with the Commission, will focus on effective tackling of global societal challenges, contributing to relevant international initiatives and the Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring access to talent and enhanced supply and demand of innovative solutions. The EIT and KICs will plan and perform their international activities in close collaboration with the Commission, in compliance with the Horizon Europe approach and other relevant EU policies, and under the supervision of the EIT Governing Board.	The EIT and KICs will plan and perform their international activities in close collaboration with the Commission, in compliance with the Horizon Europe approach and other relevant EU policies, and under the supervision of the EIT Governing Board. In its international cooperation and global outreach activities the KICs, in consultation with the EIT Governing Board and the Commission, shall focus on effective tackling of global and societal challenges, contributing to relevant international initiatives and the SDGs, ensuring access to talent and enhanced supply and demand of innovative solutions.

Amendment  91

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.3 – point 3 – table

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT will:	deleted
— Improve its visibility through a stronger branding strategy towards main stakeholders in Member States.
— Ensure visibility of the European Union’s support.
— Explore the feasibility to use existing EU information networks and provide coordination to their activities in order to ensure better advice and guidance to potential EIT KICs partners.
— Organise regular meetings of the Member States’ Representatives Group to ensure an effective communication and flow of information with MS.
— Increase the visibility of its action towards citizens and its community of stakeholders through the Stakeholder Forum, the EIT Awards and the EIT Alumni.
— Identify, codify, and effectively share learnings and good practices emerging from EIT-funded activities; engage with EU Member States authorities at both national and regional level, establishing a structured dialogue and coordinating efforts, in order to identify, share and disseminate good practices and learnings.
— Develop broad lines of international cooperation of the EIT and the KICs under the supervision of the EIT Governing Board, in compliance with the Commission’s strategy for international cooperation on research and innovation and in consultation with the the respective Commission services.

Amendment  92

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.4 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
This section includes a number of measures that aim to adapt and improve the current functioning of the EIT and the KICs. An effective and strategic EIT Governing Board will monitor the implementation of those measures at the EIT level, and will provide the necessary incentives and control, including through the funding allocation process, to ensure that the KICs implement them.	This section includes a number of measures that aim to adapt and improve the current functioning of the EIT and the KICs. An effective and strategic EIT Governing Board shall monitor the implementation of those measures at the EIT level, and shall provide the necessary incentives and control, including through the performance-based funding allocation process, to ensure that the KICs implement them.

Amendment  93

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.4 – point 4 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT will provide operational guidance to and monitor the KICs on compliance with sound management principles, the principles and criteria set out for European Partnerships in the Horizon Europe regulation and alignment with Horizon Europe priorities in order to maximize their performance and impact.	The EIT will provide operational guidance to and continuously monitor the KICs to ensure compliance with sound management and good governance principles, the principles and criteria set out for European Partnerships in the Horizon Europe regulation and alignment with the requirements stemming from Horizon Europe and with its priorities in order to maximise their performance and impact, based on a long-term collaboration strategy between the EIT and the KICs. Appropriate measures may be taken where a KIC underperforms or fails to achieve the expected results and impact.

(In order to align the numbering of the points in the Annex, the points under Annex I – point 3 – point 3.4 will be renumbered at a later stage in the procedure.)

Amendment  94

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.4 – point 4 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Measures ensuring continuous openness of the KICs and transparency during implementation will be improved notably by including common provisions for new members that add value to the partnerships. They will also run their activities in a fully transparent way. KICs will remain dynamic partnerships that new partners, including an increasing share of SMEs, can join on the basis of excellence and strategic fit. In order to limit the concentration of funding and ensure that KICs activities benefit from a wide network of partners, the procedure for the preparation of the Business Plan (including the identification of priorities, the selection of activities and the allocation of funds) will be made more transparent and inclusive. Finally, KICs will increase the share of calls, in particular for innovation projects that are open to third parties. All these measures will increase the number of participating entities involved in KICs’ activities. Finally, KICs should report on the involvement of new partners in their regular reporting.	The EIT shall make sure that the measures ensuring continuous openness of the KICs KICs to new members as well as transparency during implementation will be improved notably by adopting and applying transparent, clear and consistent accession and exit criteria for new members that add value to the partnerships, by a continuous monitoring of the effectiveness of the measures. They shall also run their activities in a fully transparent way, including through a systematic use of open calls for projects, for partners and for the establishment of new CLCs.

Amendment  95

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.4 – point 4 – paragraph 2 a (new)

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	While excellence remains the main criterion for the selection of partners, projects or new co-location centres, when it is strictly necessary to select between proposals of equal evaluation results, KICs shall give priority to those proposals that:
	(a) include a higher number of regions and countries of low R&I performing countries and regions, or that are modest or moderate innovators, as defined in point (8) of Article 2 of EIT Regulation [xxx];
	(b) include a higher number of regions or countries that are not yet participating in the KIC community;
	(c) involve regions and countries that commit to contribute to with ESI funds;
	(d) involve a higher number of SMEs;
	(e) ensure a better gender balance.

Amendment  96

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.4 – point 4 – paragraph 2 b (new)

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	KICs will remain as open and dynamic partnerships that new partners across the Union, including an increasing share of SMEs and start-ups, can join on the basis of excellence added value and their ability to contribute to innovation ecosystems and strategic fit. In order to limit the concentration of funding and ensure that KICs activities benefit from a wide geographical coverage and an extensive network of partners, the procedure for the preparation of the Business Plan (including the identification of priorities, the selection of activities and the allocation of funds) and the selection of new co-location centres and funding decisions shall be made more transparent, open and inclusive. Finally, KICs should report on the involvement of new partners and beneficiaries in their regular reporting.

Amendment  97

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.4 – point 4 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
As KICs operate across the entire value chain of innovation, they will ensure an appropriate balance of education, entrepreneurship and innovation activities in their Business Plan portfolio. KICs operations will be implemented through a lean, efficient and cost-effective structure that would keep administrative and overhead costs to a minimum. EIT will ensure that KICs will achieve their expected impacts through a broad range of activities, identified in the KICs’ Business Plans, which effectively support the fulfilment of their objectives.	As KICs operate across the entire value chain of innovation, they shall ensure an appropriate and continuous balance of education, research, entrepreneurship and innovation activities in their Business Plan portfolio. The EIT shall monitor KICs operations to ensure that they are implemented through a lean, efficient and cost-effective structure that would keep administrative, management and overhead costs to a reasonable minimum. EIT will ensure that KICs will achieve their expected impacts through a broad range of activities, identified in the KICs’ Business Plans, which effectively support the fulfilment of their objectives. In order to decrease the administrative burden, the KICs’ Business Plans and the EIT grants for the KICs shall cover a period of at least three years, while KICs activities shall continue to be reported annually.

Amendment  98

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.4 – point 4 – paragraph 4

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Commitments from each KIC’s partner throughout the contractual duration of the initiative will be ensured by regularly monitoring the actual partner’s contributions against the original commitments. EIT will ensure that KICs have a risk management system in place for cases where some partners are not able to meet their original commitments.	Commitments from each KIC’s partner throughout the contractual duration of the initiative shall be ensured by regularly monitoring the actual partner’s contributions against the original commitments. EIT shall ensure that KICs have a risk management system in place for cases where some partners are not able to meet their original commitments. In pursuing the financial sustainability of their activities, the KICs should look for a wide range of revenue and investment sources. Any effort made towards financial sustainability shall not lead to increases in tuition-fees or membership fees from partners, nor to a disadvantage for smaller entities, such as SMEs and startups, in terms of membership or tuition-fees nor reduced provision of grants.

Amendment  99

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.4 – point 4 – table

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT will:	deleted
— Ensure that KICs apply strict principles of openness and transparency, in particular as regards the selection of new partners and the procedure for the preparation of the Business Plans.
— Ensure that the implementation of the KICs is in full compliance with the respective requirements stemming from the Horizon Europe regulation.
— Ensure an appropriate balance in the Business Plans between activities of the knowledge triangle.
— Ensure that KICs keep their administrative costs to a minimum.
— Ensure transition of existing eight KICs towards delivery of the new implementation criteria of Horizon Europe for European Partnerships.

Amendment  100

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.4 – point 5 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Through a lean and simplified funding model, the EIT will enhance the impact and contribution of KICs towards reaching the objectives of the Horizon Europe Programme. In order to increase the value added of its support, the EIT will adapt its funding model. There are four main areas where the EIT will implement improvements.	Through a lean and simplified funding model, the EIT will enhance the impact and contribution of KICs towards reaching the objectives of the Horizon Europe Programme. In order to increase the value added by its support, the EIT shall adapt its funding model in order to increase over time the commitments from KICs’ partners or from other private and public sources. The EIT should ensure a balanced distribution of the budget for the duration of the period and a smooth transition from the current period to the next MFF period, in particular for the ongoing activities. There are four main areas where the EIT will implement improvements.

Amendment  101

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.4 – point 5 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Firstly, the EIT will introduce a co-funding rate in order to increase the levels of private and public investments. The adaptation of the funding model will facilitate the KICs in the transition towards financial sustainability. It will incentivise them to decrease gradually during the duration of the framework partnership agreements the share of EIT funding in their Business Plan while increasing the level of co-investment from non-EIT sources. Fixed decreasing co-funding rates will be applicable across phases of the entire KICs’ life cycle (start-up, ramp-up, maturity, exit from the EIT grant) as presented below.	Firstly, the EIT will apply the appropriate and gradually decreasing co-funding rates down to 50% as from the 12th year of operation of a KIC in order to increase the levels of private and public investments, other than revenues from their partners, thus facilitating the KICs to leverage increasing additional public and private revenue and investments, in order to achieve financial sustainability. The EIT shall adapt the share of the funding according to the KICs’ Multiannual Business Plan while increasing the level of co-investment from non-EIT sources. EIT funding shall be performance-based, shall incentivise impact and reward success, shall be directly tied to the progress made towards the achievement of the KICs’ objectives, and may be discontinued in the case of a persistent lack of results.

Amendment  102

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.4 – point 5 – figure 4

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
[…]	deleted

Amendment  103

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.4 – point 5 – paragraph 4

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Secondly, the grant allocation process currently used will be geared more strongly towards competitive performance and results and the use of multiannual grants. The EIT Governing Board will provide stronger incentives to KICs in particular based on their individual performance in order to ensure the highest level of impact. The EIT will therefore amend its competitive funding provisions in order to improve its impact as part of Horizon Europe.	Secondly, the EIT will ensure that the grant allocation process is based on competitive performance and the use of multiannual grants. EIT funding shall be tied to progress in accordance with Article 11 of ... [EIT Regulation (2019/0151(COD)]. The EIT Governing Board will provide stronger incentives to KICs in particular based on their individual performance in order to ensure the highest level of impact. The EIT will therefore amend its competitive funding provisions in order to improve its impact as part of Horizon Europe.

Amendment  104

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.4 – point 5 – paragraph 4

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Thirdly, the EIT will apply strict rules for reinforcing the review mechanism prior to the expiry of the first 7 years initial period of KIC’s operations. This mid-term review to be undertaken with the help of external experts should be in line with the best international practice, in line with Horizon Europe criteria for the monitoring and evaluation of European Partnerships and take place before the expiry of the initial seven years period. As a result of the review, a decision will be made by the Governing Board to either continue the financial contribution to a KIC, or to discontinue it (thus not extending the framework partnership agreement with that KIC) and reallocate the resources to better performing activities.	Thirdly, the EIT will apply strict rules for reinforcing the review mechanism prior to the expiry of the first 7 years initial period of KIC’s operations. The mid-term review shall be undertaken by external and independent experts and shall should be in line with the best international practice, in line with Horizon Europe criteria for the monitoring and evaluation of European Partnerships and criteria set out in Article 11 of ... [EIT Regulation (2019/0151(COD)]. The review shall take place before the expiry of the initial seven years period. As a result of the review, in accordance with Article 11 of ... [EIT Regulation (2019/0151(COD)], a decision will be made by the Governing Board to either reduce, modify or continue the financial contribution to a KIC, or to discontinue it (thus not extending the framework partnership agreement with that KIC).

Amendment  105

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.4 – point 5 a (new)

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(5a) Reducing the administrative burden

(To be placed before: Annex I – point 3 – point 3.4 – point 5 – paragraph 5)

Amendment  106

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.4 – point 5 – paragraph 5

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Finally, the EIT will continue its efforts towards simplification in order to alleviate unnecessary administrative burden27 of the KIC, allowing the implementation of their annual Business Plan and multi-annual strategy in an agile and efficient way. This will include the use of lump sum or unit costs for relevant KIC activities. Moreover, in order to provide a better planning of the resources, in particular of innovation activities, as well as facilitate stronger commitment and long-term investment from participating partners in KICs activities, the EIT will sign multi-annual grant agreements with KICs, when appropriate, under the respective framework partnership agreements. These multi-annual grant agreements should not exceed 3 years.	The EIT shall ramp up its efforts towards simplification and reduction of the administrative burden27 for the KICs, allowing the implementation of their multi-annual Business Plans in an agile and efficient way. This will include the use of lump sum or unit costs for relevant KIC activities. Moreover, in order to provide a better planning of the resources, in particular of innovation activities, as well as facilitate stronger commitment and long-term investment from participating partners in KICs activities, the EIT will sign multi-annual grant agreements with KICs under the respective framework partnership agreements. These multi-annual grant agreements should cover a period of at least 3 years. The EIT shall reinforce trust relationships with the KICs and concentrate its evaluation on their results and impacts.
__________________	__________________
27 In particular, the annual reporting on KIC complementary activities would be discontinued, as recommended by the Court of Auditors in its Special Report of 2016 ( Recommendation 1, p. 51).	27In particular, the annual reporting on KIC complementary activities would be discontinued, as recommended by the Court of Auditors in its Special Report of 2016 ( Recommendation 1, p. 51).

Amendment  107

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.4 – point 5 – table 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT will:	deleted
— Implement a new funding model designed to incentivise commitment from KICs’ partners.
— Continuously improve the funding model by simplifying KIC’s reporting practices and, when deemed appropriate, sign multi-annual grant agreements with KICs under the respective framework partnership agreements.
— Adapt the competitive grant allocation process to reward performance and results.
— Reinforce the comprehensive review of the performance of each KIC prior to the expiry of their 7th year of activity to support a Governing Board decision on the continuation or termination of their financial support, in line with Horizon Europe framework for European Partnerships.

Amendment  108

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.4 – point 6

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Subject to an in-depth independent study in close cooperation with the Commission, by the end of 2023, the EIT will define its relations with the KICs that will stop receiving support grants in the course of the 2021-2027 programming period. Subject to a positive outcome of a final review, the EIT may conclude a “Memorandum of Co-operation” with each KIC, aiming to maintain cooperation with KICs after the termination of the framework partnership agreement. This Memorandum should include, inter alia, rights and obligations linked to:	The EIT shall develop the general principles for the relation with KICs after the termination of the framework partnership agreement in line with Horizon Europe framework for European Partnerships. Subject to an in-depth independent study in close cooperation with the Commission, by the end of 2023, the EIT shall assess the impact and results of the three KICs whose Framework Partnership Agreement will come to an end in the course of the 2021-2027 programming period and shall define their relations thereafter.
– the use of the EIT brand, participation in EIT Awards and in other initiatives organized by the EIT;
– the use of the EIT Label for education & training programmes;
– participation in EIT competitive calls for cross-KIC activities and shared services;
– relations with the EIT Alumni Community.

Amendment  109

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.4 – point 6 – paragraph 1 a (new)

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	Subject to a positive outcome of in depth review by external independent experts and a positive decision of its Governing Board, the EIT may, pursuant Article 11 of the EIT Regulation, decide to extend the framework partnership agreement until the end of the current programming period, if the evaluation shows that certain activities by the KIC cannot yet be financially sustainable, but remain crucial for the fulfilment of its tasks, activities and capabilities in responding to societal challenges and hence still need financial support from the EIT to allow the KICs to become financially sustainable. In accordance with Article 11 of the EIT Regulation, such extension shall be subject to certain conditions and be limited in scope, budget and time.

Amendment  110

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.4 – point 6 – table

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT will:	deleted
— Develop the general principles for the relation with KICs after the termination of the framework partnership agreement, in line with Horizon Europe framework for European Partnerships;
— Conclude, subject to a positive final review and EIT Governing Board decision, Memoranda of Cooperation with the KICs in order to keep them as active members of the EIT Community.

Amendment  111

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.5 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Building on its broad scope of action and distinctive role, the EIT is well placed to create synergies and provide complementarities with other EU programmes or instruments, including by reinforcing its support to KICs in their planning and implementing activities. The list below offers concrete examples where the EIT will contribute to synergies in the mid to long term beyond Horizon Europe.	Building on its broad scope of action and distinctive role as an integral part of Horizon Europe, the EIT is well placed to create synergies and provide complementarities with other EU programmes or instruments, including by reinforcing its support to KICs in their planning and implementing activities. The list below offers concrete examples where the EIT will contribute to synergies in the mid to long term beyond Horizon Europe.

Amendment  112

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.5 – paragraph 4 – indent 1 a (new)

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	- Given the territorial dimension of the KICs and innovation ecosystems, synergies with ESI funds shall be sought. Best efforts shall be made towards the inclusion of KICs' activities in the operational programmes of the cohesion funds' managing authorities. This should contribute to the objectives of openness, geographical balance and financial sustainability of the KICs and increase the overall impact of the EIT.

Amendment  113

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 – point 3.5 – paragraph 4 – indent 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
— EIT KICs will promote the collaboration with the Smart Specialisation Platforms, particularly the projects having experience in working with the Managing Authorities of Cohesion Policy Funds, in order to facilitate synergies between EIT resources, Cohesion Policy Funds and other European, national and/or regional programmes.	— EIT KICs will promote the collaboration between KICs and the Smart Specialisation Platforms, in order to facilitate synergies between EIT resources, Cohesion Policy Funds and other European, national and/or regional programmes.

Amendment  114

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 3 a (new)

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	3 a. The crisis resulting from the outbreak of covid-19
	(1) Cooperation between the EIT and the KICs
	Major social, economic, environmental and technological changes deriving from the outbreak of COVID-19 will require the collaboration of all Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies and the EIT should contribute to the innovation efforts that are needed in order to provide a coherent response to the crisis. The EIT should ensure that the KICs help deliver innovative solutions in different fields of action, in accordance with the priorities of the Union’s recovery plan, European Green Deal, the Union Industrial Strategy and the SDGs, in order to contribute to the recovery of our societies and economy and strengthen their sustainability and resilience. Each KIC should develop a two-year strategic plan to contribute to mitigating the effects of the crisis on the economy, in particular the upheaval of society, and the contraction of investment. Specific attention should be paid to actions aiming to increase the resilience of their innovation ecosystems and in particular, of microenterprises, SMEs and start-ups, but also of students, researchers, entrepreneurs and employees who have been hit hardest by the crisis
	The EIT should ensure that the KICs are able to operate with the necessary flexibility to adapt to the increasing demands arising from the COVID-19 crisis and in order to respond to the European recovery plan. The KICs, in synergy with other innovation strands and agencies, may propose initiatives aiming to support the current innovation ecosystem based on the knowledge triangle. They may publish dedicated calls for proposals, promote initiatives using their partnerships, ecosystems and communities, elaborate individual and cross-KIC projects to support sustainable business restructuring, identify SMEs, start-ups and other stakeholders that need support. They should be flexible enough to create “fit-for-purpose” support measures for their partners and beneficiaries and even beyond their existing communities. They will need to adapt to a period of more decentralised and remote working methods, less travel, more uncertainty and continued physical distancing. They are to help partners, their beneficiaries and students with innovative collaborative tools, instruments, information and support services.
	Towards the end of 2023, the EIT Governing Board, in coordination with the Commission, shall assess whether to extend the duration of each KIC’s crisis response programme.
	(2) EIT Health
	Without duplicating existing databases and initiatives, EIT Health should contribute to collate expertise and gather data and information for the development of vaccines, testing methods and medical treatments for COVID-19. EIT Health should contribute to putting in place horizontal platforms that can support research and development in vaccine-related initiatives by academia, industry, in particular SMEs, and by other organisations that have experience with preclinical expertise, vaccine trials and the production of clinical trial material.

Amendment  115

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 4 – point 4.1 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT's budget needs in the period 2021-2027 are EUR [3000] million and are based on three main components: 1) the expenditure for the existing eight KICs (reflecting that for three of them the framework partnership agreements will come to an end by 2024) and the launch of two new KICs (in 2022 and 2025); 2) the launch of a new EIT support and coordination action; and 3) administrative expenditure.	The EIT's budget needs in the period 2021-2027 are 4% of Horizon Europe total budget and are based on two main components: 1) the expenditure for the existing eight KICs (reflecting that for three of them the framework partnership agreements will come to an end by 2024) and the launch of two new KICs (in 2022 or 2023 and 2025); and 2) administrative expenditure.

Amendment  116

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 4 – point 4.1 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Around EUR [2500] million (83,3 % of the total EIT budget) is envisaged to fund existing and new KICs and includes EUR [200] million for the Regional Innovation Scheme. Through the introduction of a co-funding rate, the KICs are expected to mobilise a further EUR [1500] million of other public and private sources. The budget for the launch of two new KICs (to be launched in 2022 and 2025, respectively) will be around EUR [300] million. Should additional budget to that of the EIT become available, the EIT could also launch additional KICs.	Around 96,7 % is envisaged to fund existing and new KICs of which :
	(a) at least 15% for the Regional Innovation Scheme;
	(b) maximum 3% for the education initiative aimed to develop the innovation and entrepreneurial capacities in the knowledge triangle;
	(c) around 10% for the launch of two new KICs (to be launched in 2022 or 2023 and 2025, respectively).
	Should additional budget to that of the EIT become available, the EIT could also launch additional KICs.

Amendment  117

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 4 – point 4.1 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT will launch a new support action to help develop the entrepreneurial and innovation capacity of HEIs. This action will require horizontal project management and monitoring services. Around EUR [400] million of the EIT budget (max. 14%) is needed to implement these activities, with EUR [120] million dedicated to the start-up phase (first 3 years) and the rest for the scale-up phase (final 4 years)	deleted

Amendment  118

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 4 – point 4.1 – paragraph 4 – introductory part

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT will continue to be a lean and dynamic organisation. The costs of administrative expenditure, covering necessary staff, administrative, infrastructure and operational expenses, will increase but on average not exceed 3% of the EIT budget. Part of the administrative expenditure is covered by Hungary through provision of free of charge office space until the end of 2029. On this basis, administrative expenditure will therefore be approximately EUR 73 million for 2021-2027. The budget breakdown is presented below:	The EIT will continue to be a lean and dynamic organisation. The costs of EIT administrative expenditure, covering necessary staff, administrative, infrastructure and operational expenses, will increase but on average be around 3% of the EIT budget. Part of the administrative expenditure is covered by Hungary through provision of office space free of charge until the end of 2029. Besides, a major effort shall be made to decrease the KICs’ administrative costs which, in any case, shall be kept to a reasonable minimum.

Amendment  119

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 4 – point 4.1 – paragraph 4 – figure

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
[…]	deleted

Amendment  120

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 4 – point 4.2 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The measurement of EIT’s impact will be continuously improved over the next programming period taking into account the lessons learnt and the experiences gained so far. The EIT will apply an evaluation, reporting and monitoring framework ensuring coherence with the overall approach taken for Horizon Europe while catering for flexibility. In particular, feedback loops between the Commission, EIT and KICs will be improved in order to address the objectives in a consistent, coherent and efficient manner.	The measurement of EIT’s impact will be continuously improved over the next programming period taking into account the lessons learnt, the experiences gained so far and the need to streamline its practices with those of Horizon Europe. The EIT will apply the evaluation, reporting and monitoring framework established in Horizon Europe, using the indicators listed in Annex V to Regulation [xxx] establishing Horizon Europe.

Amendment  121

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 4 – point 4.2 – paragraph 1 a (new)

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	4.2.1. Mid-term review of the EIT
	The EIT shall be subject to a thorough mid-term review by the Commission, on the basis of the periodic evaluations established in Article 19 of the Regulation [xxx] on the EIT. It shall be conducted with the assistance of independent experts and carried out no later than three years after the start of the next financial period. Among other elements, that mid-term review shall also assess:
	(a) the results and impacts of the education initiative and its potential continuation;
	(b) the effectiveness of the KICs’ financial sustainability strategies;
	(c) the implementation and impact of the RIS;
	(d) the feasibility of further increasing the collaboration of the EIT and all implementing bodies of Pillar III of Horizon Europe in order to examine whether the EIT could play a more horizontal role across all pillars and/or establish a one-stop-shop for innovation with a set of different complementary activities.

Amendment  122

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 4 – point 4.2 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Evaluation	4.2.2. KICs' evaluation a nd review

Amendment  123

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 4 – point 4.2 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The periodic evaluations of the EIT activities, including those managed through KICs, will be carried out by the Commission in line with the provisions of the EIT Regulation and Horizon Europe Regulation. These evaluations will assess the effectiveness, efficiency, relevance, coherence and EU added value of the EIT activities including the KICs. They will be based on independent external evaluations and will feed into the overall mid-term and ex-post evaluations of Horizon Europe. Furthermore, each KIC will be subject to a thorough review by the EIT before the end of the 7th and 14th year of operation under the Framework Partnership Agreements.	The periodic evaluations of the EIT activities, including those managed through KICs, will be carried out by the Commission in line with the ... [EIT Regulation (2019/0151/COD)] and the Horizon Europe Regulation. These evaluations will assess the effectiveness, efficiency, relevance, coherence and EU added value of the EIT activities including the KICs. They will be based on independent external evaluations and will feed into the overall mid-term and ex-post evaluations of Horizon Europe.
	Each KIC will be subject to a thorough review by the EIT before the end of the 4th, 7th, 11th and 14th year of operation under the Framework Partnership Agreements. Such review shall be carried out by independent external experts and the continuation of the KIC shall be subject to a positive decision of the Governing Board.

Amendment  124

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 4 – point 4.2 – paragraph 4

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Reporting and Monitoring	4.2.3 Reporting and Monitoring

Amendment  125

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 4 – point 4.2 – paragraph 5

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The reporting and monitoring of the KICs operational performance and their results will be a primary task of the EIT and will be implemented in cooperation with Horizon Europe common corporate services. The reporting and monitoring system for KICs will be built into the overall Horizon Europe monitoring system, in particular by implementing common data models including data collection. The Commission will take part in the co-design of all relevant impact and monitoring indicators and tools developed or applied by the EIT in order to ensure compatibility and consistency with the overall Horizon Europe monitoring system, including the key impact pathways, the criteria framework for European Partnerships and the Strategic Planning Process. Furthermore, EIT will take into account the deployment of the Innovation Radar methodology in Horizon Europe, and will explore how Innovation Radar could be leveraged by the KICs for enhancement of its monitoring activities.	The Commission shall continuously monitor the management and implementation of the activities of the EIT in accordance with Article 45 of Regulation [xxx] establishing Horizon Europe. Data from projects funded under the EIT shall be included in the Horizon Europe database. The Commission will take part in the co-design of all relevant impact and monitoring indicators and tools developed or applied by the EIT in order to ensure compatibility and consistency with the overall Horizon Europe monitoring system, including the key impact pathways, the criteria framework for European Partnerships and the Strategic Planning Process. Furthermore, EIT will take into account the deployment of the Innovation Radar methodology in Horizon Europe, and will explore how Innovation Radar could be leveraged by the KICs for enhancement of its monitoring activities.

Amendment  126

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 4 – point 4.2 – paragraph 6

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Overall, it will be a responsibility of the EIT to regularly monitor the operational performance of the KICs and to adapt continuously its monitoring systems in line with Horizon Europe monitoring and reporting framework for European Partnerships and in cooperation with the Horizon Europe common corporate services. The results of such monitoring will feed into the KICs business planning processes and into the EIT decision-making on the allocation of the budget and preparation of the framework partnership agreements with the KICs as beneficiaries.	Overall, it will be a responsibility of the EIT to regularly monitor the operational performance of the KICs, including their administrative expenditure, and to adapt continuously its monitoring systems in line with Horizon Europe monitoring and reporting framework for European Partnerships and in cooperation with the Horizon Europe common corporate services. The results of such monitoring will feed into the KICs multi-annual business planning processes and into the EIT decision-making on the allocation of the budget and preparation of the framework partnership agreements with the KICs as beneficiaries.

Amendment  127

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 4 – point 4.2 – paragraph 7 – point 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(1) economic/innovation impact by influencing the creation and growth of companies, as well as the creation of new innovative solutions to address global challenges, creating direct and indirect jobs and mobilising other public and private investments;	(1) economic/innovation impact by influencing the creation and growth of companies, as well as the creation of new innovative solutions to address global challenges, creating direct and indirect jobs and mobilising additional public and private investments;

Amendment  128

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 4 – point 4.2 – paragraph 7 – point 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(2) scientific and educational impact by strengthening human capital in research and innovation, enhancing innovative and entrepreneurial skills both at individual and organisational levels and fostering the diffusion of knowledge and innovation openly within society;	(2) scientific and educational impact by creating new knowledge, strengthening human capital in research and innovation, enhancing innovative and entrepreneurial skills both at individual and organisational levels and fostering the diffusion of knowledge and innovation openly within society;

Amendment  129

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 4 – point 4.2 – paragraph 7 – point 3

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(3) societal impact by addressing EU policy priorities in the fields of climate change, energy, raw materials, health or food through innovative solutions, engagement with citizens and end-users and by strengthening the uptake of innovative solutions in these areas in society.	(3) societal impact by addressing EU policy priorities in the fields of climate change (mitigation, adaptation and resilience), energy, raw materials, health, added value manufacturing, urban mobility or food through innovative solutions, engagement with citizens and end-users and by strengthening the uptake of innovative solutions in these areas in society;

Amendment  130

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 4 – point 4.2 – paragraph 7 – point 3 a (new)

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(3 a) systemic impact, by addressing complex and interconnected problems, creating innovative comprehensive solutions, delivering transformative applications with integrated added value in multiple sectors, contributing to shaping Union policies and address global and societal challenges, within the EIT community and especially in the cross-KIC relations.

Amendment  131

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 4 – point 4.2 – paragraph 7 a (new)

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	The impacts referred to in the third paragraph shall be measured according to the indicators set out in Annex V to Regulation [xxx] establishing Horizon Europe.

Amendment  132

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 4 – point 4.2 – paragraph 8

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The table below provides the non-exhaustive list of management indicators and their targets that would be monitored by the EIT in 2021-2027. These indicators provide the main input and output orientations for monitoring the achievement of EIT’s key objectives for the period 2021-2027 such as fostering innovation and entrepreneurship through better education, increasing its regional impact and openness towards potential partners and stakeholders, and bringing new innovative solutions to global challenges to market.	In addition, the table below provides the non-exhaustive list of management indicators and their targets that would be monitored by the EIT in 2021-2027. These indicators provide the main input and output orientations for monitoring the achievement of EIT’s key objectives for the period 2021-2027 such as fostering innovation and entrepreneurship through better education, increasing its regional impact and openness towards potential partners and stakeholders, and bringing new innovative solutions to global challenges to market.

Amendment  133

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 4 – point 4.2 – paragraph 9

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Additional indicators, including societal impact indicators in the KICs areas of activity, will be developed by the EIT together with the Commission in line with the development of the Horizon Europe programme indicator framework and will reflect the overall approach for European Partnerships to contribute to scientific, economic and societal impact. Overall the alignment of the impact indicators with Horizon Europe will aim at monitoring the progress towards the set objectives over time. This will ensure a comparative evidence-base on results and impacts generated by KICs vis-à-vis the rest of the programme. In addition, the EIT will ensure that the monitoring system would capture progress in relation to activities specific to the KIC model, such as knowledge triangle integration and entrepreneurial skills.These additional indicators will aim at monitoring the progress and impact over time. For example, the indicators on EIT education-related activities (including those supporting the capacities of HEIs) shall monitor human capital skill acquisition (short term), career (medium term) and working conditions (long term), HEIs engagement and capacity improvement (short term) or HEIs role and performance in local innovation ecosystems (medium and long term).	Additional indicators, including societal impact indicators in the KICs areas of activity, will be developed by the EIT together with the Commission in line with the development of the Horizon Europe programme indicator framework and will reflect the overall approach for European Partnerships to contribute to scientific, economic and societal impact. Overall the alignment of the impact indicators with Horizon Europe will aim to monitor the progress towards the set objectives over time. This will ensure a comparative evidence-base on results and impacts generated by KICs vis-à-vis the rest of the programme. In addition, the EIT will ensure that the monitoring system would capture progress in relation to activities specific to the KIC model, such as knowledge triangle integration and entrepreneurial skills.These additional indicators will aim to monitor the progress and impact over time. For example, the indicators on EIT education-related activities (including those supporting the capacities of HEIs) shall monitor human capital skill acquisition (short term), career (medium term) and working conditions (long term), HEIs engagement and capacity improvement (short term) or HEIs role and performance in local innovation ecosystems (medium and long term).

Amendment  134

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 4 – point 4.2 – paragraph 10

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT will ensure that the data it collects through its internal monitoring system, including the results from KICs, are fully integrated in the overall data management system of Horizon Europe programme. The EIT will ensure that detailed information arising from its monitoring and evaluation process are made available timely and are accessible in a common e-database on Horizon Europe implementation. In addition, the EIT will ensure dedicated reporting on quantitative and qualitative impacts, including on committed and actually provided financial contributions.	In order to improve transparency and openness, the EIT shall ensure that the data it collects through its internal monitoring system, including the results from KICs, is fully accessible and integrated in the overall data management system of Horizon Europe programme. The EIT shall ensure that detailed information arising from its monitoring and evaluation process are made available timely and are accessible in the common e-database on Horizon Europe implementation. In addition, the EIT will ensure dedicated reporting on quantitative and qualitative impacts, including on committed and actually provided financial contributions.

Amendment  135

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 4 – point 4.2 – table 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The EIT will:	deleted
— Improve its current monitoring systems and introduce a reporting and monitoring framework including impact indicators, aligned with the Key Impact Pathways of the [Horizon Europe programme].
— Regularly monitor the KICs operational performance and their outputs, results and progress towards impact in line with the [Horizon Europe framework].
— Ensure the development of the specific societal indicators in the KICs areas of activity and its regular monitoring in line with Horizon Europe framework for societal impact.
— Ensure reporting on quantitative and qualitative impacts, including on financial contributions.
— Ensure access to results and project data from KICs and integrating it in the overall data management and reporting system of Horizon Europe programme.

Amendment  136

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 5 – paragraph 1 – point 1 a (new)

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	1 a. Water, Marine and Maritime Sectors and Ecosystems

Amendment  137

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 1 – point 7 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI) can bring a horizontal solution to an array of rising challenges, which are of a permanent nature, and can be addressed through research and innovation activities. These challenges can be grouped into four pillars: 1) Europeans' creativity, cultural diversity and values; 2) European identity and cohesion; 3) European employment, economic resilience, and smart growth; and 4) Europe as a global actor.	Cultural and Creative Sectors and Industries (CCSI)1a can bring a horizontal solution to an array of rising challenges, which are of a permanent nature, and can be addressed through education, research and innovation activities. These challenges can be grouped into four pillars: 1) Europeans' creativity, cultural and linguistic diversity and values; 2) European identity and cohesion; 3) European employment, economic resilience, and smart growth; and 4) Europe as a global actor.
	__________________
	1a The Cultural and Creative Sectors and Industries relate to all sectors and industries whose activities are based on cultural values, cultural diversity and individual and/or collective artistic and other creative expressions, whether those activities are market or non-market oriented, whatever the type of structure that carries them out, and irrespective of how that structure is financed. Those activities include the development of skills and talent with the potential to generate innovation, the creation of wealth and jobs through the production of social and economic value, including from intellectual property management. They relate also to the development, the production, the dissemination and the preservation of goods and services which embody cultural, artistic or other creative expressions, as well as related functions such as education and management. The cultural and creative sectors include inter alia architecture, archives, arts, libraries and museums, artistic crafts, audio and visual (including film, television, software, video games, multimedia and recorded music), tangible and intangible cultural heritage, design, creativity-driven high-end industries and fashion, festivals, music, literature, performing arts, books and publishing (newspapers and magazines), radio and visual arts, and advertising.

: (In order to align the numbering of the points in the Annex, the points under Annex I - point 6 – paragraph 1 – points 7, 8 and 9 will be renumbered at a later stage in the procedure.)

Amendment  138

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 1 – point 7 – paragraph 2 – introductory part

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Europeans’ creativity and cultural diversity depends on resilient and robust cultural and creative sectors. However those sectors, notably the audio-visual or music sector, are facing a number of challenges as a result of the increased competition from global players and the digital shift.	Europeans’ creativity and cultural diversity depends on resilient and robust cultural and creative sectors and industries. However those sectors are facing a number of challenges as a result of the increased competition from global players and the digital shift.

Amendment  139

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 1 – point 7 – paragraph 2 – indent 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
— Producers, distributors, broadcasters, cinema theatres and all types of cultural organizations need to innovate in order to attract new generations of audiences.	— Producers, creators, distributors, broadcasters, cinema theatres and all types of cultural organisations and businesses need to innovate in order to attract and expand new audiences and to develop new processes, services, contents and practices that provide societal value.

Amendment  140

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 1 – point 7 – paragraph 2 – indent 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
— The shortage of entrepreneurship and cross-cutting skills in CCI28 concerns both emerging sub-sectors as well as very mature ones that undergo a profound digital transformation. These skills are needed for innovation and crucial in light of labour market changes that the sector is facing.	— The shortage of entrepreneurship and cross-cutting skills in cultural and creative sectors28 concerns both emerging sub-sectors as well as very mature ones that undergo a profound digital transformation. These skills are needed for innovation and crucial in light of labour market changes that the sector is facing.
__________________	__________________
28 Cultural and creative studies in European universities are mostly focused on the “creative part” and their graduates are not always ready to enter the modern labour market as they lack cross-sectoral (entrepreneurial, digital, financial management) skills. With regards to HEIs, the EU is trailing behind the USA in Communication & Media studies (while EU universities are performing better in more traditional disciplines such as Art & Design or Performing arts).	28 Cultural and creative studies in European universities are mostly focused on the “creative part” and their graduates are not always ready to enter the modern labour market as they lack cross-sectoral (entrepreneurial, digital, financial management) skills. With regards to HEIs, the EU is trailing behind the USA in Communication & Media studies (while EU universities are performing better in more traditional disciplines such as Art & Design or Performing arts). Cultural heritage is an important source of innovation, providing good return on investment and significant.

Amendment  141

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 1 – point 7 – paragraph 2 – indent 3 a (new)

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	- Cultural heritage is an important source of innovation, providing good return on investment and significant economic revenues, but its potential is still untapped. Being a catalyst for sustainable heritage-led regeneration and an essential stimulus to education and lifelong learning, fostering cooperation and social cohesion, it can vastly benefit from the CCSI KIC.

Amendment  142

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 1 – point 7 – paragraph 3 – introductory part

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Societal challenges related to the European identity and cohesion can generally be described in terms of lack of ‘bridges’ connecting different parts of the society including different territories. They include issues related to social exclusion, the need to build closer intercultural links and developing a sense of common belonging based on our cultural diversity and common heritage that could be addressed through more community participation, innovations in design, architecture and the use of public spaces, as well as culture-led social innovation. In particular:	Societal challenges related to the European identity and cohesion can generally be described in terms of lack of ‘bridges’ connecting different parts of the society including different territories. They include issues related to social exclusion, the need to build closer intercultural links, protect linguistic diversity, including minority languages, and develop a sense of common belonging based on our cultural diversity and common heritage that could be addressed through more community participation, innovations in design, architecture and the use of public spaces, as well as culture-led societal innovation. In particular:

Amendment  143

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 1 – point 7 – paragraph 3 – indent 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
— There is limited cooperation between researchers and between research and industry as well as insufficient coordination of R&D efforts, sharing of methods, results, and best practices. Additionally, most of the research in CCI have not been translated which leads to repetition, as researchers are often unaware of similar projects.	— There is limited cooperation between researchers and between research and industry, public and third sector organisations as well as insufficient coordination of R&D efforts, sharing of methods, results, and best practices. Additionally, most of the research in cultural and creative sectors and industries have not been translated which leads to repetition, as researchers are often unaware of similar projects.

Amendment  144

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 1 – point 7 – paragraph 3 – indent 3

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
— A significant share of regional smart specialization priorities in Europe refer to culture under different angles (e.g. cultural heritage, creative industries, etc.). Given the important role of culture and creativity for the economic and social development of cities and regions and their ability to further help address disparity issues across Europe, the potential of the CCI KIC is high.	— A significant share of regional smart specialization priorities in Europe refer to culture under different angles (e.g. cultural heritage, creative industries, etc.). Given the important role of culture and creativity for the economic and social development of cities and regions and their ability to further help address disparity issues across Europe, the potential of this KIC is high.

Amendment  145

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 1 – point 7 – paragraph 4 – introductory part

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Challenges related to European employment, economic resilience, and smart growth, include economic issues such as unemployment (especially youth unemployment) and global competition.	Current challenges related to European employment, economic resilience, and smart growth, include socio-economic issues such as tackling unemployment (especially youth unemployment), improve skills and working environments and facing global competition.

Amendment  146

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 1 – point 7 – paragraph 4 – indent 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
— European industries are challenged by digitization and globalization and their powerful impact on the way artists produce and distribute their works and relate to their audiences. The collapse of DVD markets, new consumer expectations and the continued power of US studios together with the rise of global digital giants like Amazon, ITunes, Google and Netflix have impacted the traditional value chain.	— European industries are strongly impacted by globalisation, digitisation and technological innovation. These developments have changed the way artists produce and distribute their works and relate to their audiences. They are changing the traditional business models of the cultural and creative industries, and they have fundamentally shifted consumers’ expectations and behaviour. The collapse of markets selling physical goods such as CDs and DVDs, together with the rise of global digital content providers like Amazon, Alibaba, ITunes, Google and Netflix as well as the increasing power of non-European content production companies, has had a massive impact on the traditional value chain.

Amendment  147

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 1 – point 7 – paragraph 5

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Finally, the role of Europe as a global actor includes the need to enhance the dissemination of the cultural content created in Europe. Europe needs to remain competitive in the global digital race for creation of new technologies (e.g. AI, IoT, blockchain) for which CCI are important generators of content, products and services globally. Moreover, on a global scale, CCI (e.g. design, architecture, etc.) contribute actively to the sustainable development and drive green innovation, while cultural content (literature, film and the arts) can raise awareness of ecological problems and inform public opinion.	Finally, the role of Europe as a global actor includes the need to enhance the dissemination of the European cultural content. Europe needs to remain competitive in the global digital race for creation of new technologies (e.g. AI, IoT, blockchain) for which cultural and creative sectors and industries are important generators of content, products and services. Moreover, on a global scale, cultural and creative sectors and industries (e.g. design, architecture, etc.) contribute actively to the sustainable development and drive green innovation, while cultural content (literature, film and the arts) can raise awareness of ecological problems and inform public opinion.

Amendment  148

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 1 – point 8 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
An EIT KIC on CCI – with its holistic and integrated approach - will help address all challenges defined above. By covering nearly all sectors of our lives, society and economy, such KIC will be highly relevant in terms of economic and societal impact, unlocking strategic opportunities for economic, technological as well as social innovation.	An EIT KIC on CCSI – with its holistic and integrated approach - will help address all challenges defined above. By covering nearly all sectors of our lives, society and economy, such KIC will be highly relevant in terms of economic and societal impact, unlocking strategic opportunities for economic, technological as well as social innovation. It will also be instrumental to strengthen knowledge and continuous learning, allowing higher arts education institutions to play a significant role in developing hybrid competences and an entrepreneurial mindset that meets industry needs.

Amendment  149

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 1 – point 8 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Culture-based and creativity-driven innovations boost European competitiveness either directly by creating new enterprises and jobs or indirectly by creating cross-sector benefits to the wider economy, improving quality of life and increasing the attractiveness of Europe. CCIs are increasingly seen as new sources of smart, sustainable and inclusive growth and jobs. employing already more than 12 million people in the EU, which amounts to 7.5% of all EU people in employment.	Culture-based and creativity-driven innovations boost European competitiveness either directly by creating new enterprises and jobs or indirectly by creating cross-sector benefits to the wider economy, improving quality of life and increasing the attractiveness of Europe. Cultural and creative sectors (e.g. cultural heritage and arts) are increasingly seen as new sources of smart, sustainable and inclusive growth and jobs. Those sectors are employing already more than 12 million people in the Union, which amounts to more than 7,5% of all EU people in employment. Cultural heritage is a key component of the cultural and creative sectors and a major contributor to the attractiveness of Europe’s regions, cities, towns and rural areas. It is a driver for private sector investments, for talent attraction, for footloose business generation and for direct and indirect job creation.

Amendment  150

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 1 – point 8 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The contribution of culture and creativity to innovation is not limited to the direct impact of the CCI, since innovation across-the-board is increasingly driven by non-technological factors such as creativity, design and new organisational processes or business models. In particular, CCI with distinct value chains (i.e. music, design, fashion, audio-visual, video games, architecture …) have a strong innovation capacity in economic terms and are able to drive innovation in other sectors of the economy.	The contribution of culture and creativity to innovation is increasingly driven by non-technological factors such as creativity, design and new organisational processes or business models. In particular, the sectors with distinct value chains (i.e. music, design, fashion, audio-visual, video games, architecture …) have a strong innovation capacity in economic terms and are able to drive innovation in other sectors of the economy.

Amendment  151

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 1 – point 8 – paragraph 4

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Culture and participation in cultural activities has a direct impact on the well-being of citizens. CCI enhance societal values of identity, democracy and community participation. Culture has a great potential to reinforce a European sense of belonging, where diversity represents an asset. This is of fundamental importance to enable resilience, social access, society cohesion, anti-radicalisation and gender equality, and to tackle Europe’s political uncertainties and need of unity.	Culture and participation in cultural activities has a direct impact on the well-being of citizens. Culture has a great potential to reinforce a European sense of belonging, where diversity represents an asset. This is of fundamental importance to enable resilience, social access, society cohesion, anti-radicalisation and gender equality.

Amendment  152

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 1 – point 8 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The contribution of culture and creativity to innovation is not limited to the direct impact of the CCI, since innovation across-the-board is increasingly driven by non-technological factors such as creativity, design and new organisational processes or business models. In particular, CCI with distinct value chains (i.e. music, design, fashion, audio-visual, video games, architecture …) have a strong innovation capacity in economic terms and are able to drive innovation in other sectors of the economy.	The contribution of culture and creativity to innovation is increasingly driven by non-technological factors such as creativity, design and new organisational processes or business models. In particular, the sectors with distinct value chains (i.e. music, design, fashion, audio-visual, video games, architecture …) have a strong innovation capacity in economic terms and are able to drive innovation in other sectors of the economy.

Amendment  153

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 1 – point 8 – paragraph 4

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Culture and participation in cultural activities has a direct impact on the well-being of citizens. CCI enhance societal values of identity, democracy and community participation. Culture has a great potential to reinforce a European sense of belonging, where diversity represents an asset. This is of fundamental importance to enable resilience, social access, society cohesion, anti-radicalisation and gender equality, and to tackle Europe’s political uncertainties and need of unity.	Culture and participation in cultural activities has a direct impact on the well-being of citizens. Culture has a great potential to reinforce a European sense of belonging, where diversity represents an asset. This is of fundamental importance to enable resilience, social access, society cohesion, anti-radicalisation and gender equality.

Amendment  154

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 1 – point 8 – paragraph 5

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
An EIT KIC on CCI will empower network opportunities, collaboration, co-creation and know-how transfer between education, research and business, within the cultural and creative sectors and with other sectors of the society and the economy. It will catalyse bottom up and top down initiatives at regional, national and EU levels. It will develop the necessary framework conditions for the creation and scale up of new ventures in innovative ecosystems. It will provide researchers and students in many disciplines (including arts, humanities, business, social sciences and applied hard sciences) and entrepreneurs of the CCI and other sectors with the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver innovative solutions and to turn them into new business opportunities. It will allow further cross-fertilisation with other economic and industrial sectors, acting as an accelerator for innovation.	An EIT KIC on CCSI will empower network opportunities, collaboration, co-creation and know-how transfer between education, research, business public and third sector organisations, within the cultural and creative sectors and with other sectors of the society and the economy. It will catalyse bottom up and top down initiatives at regional, national and EU levels. It will develop the necessary framework conditions for the creation and scale up of new ventures in innovative ecosystems. It will provide researchers and students in many disciplines (including arts, humanities, business, social sciences and applied hard sciences) and entrepreneurs of the cultural and creative industries and other sectors with the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver innovative solutions and to turn them into new cultural, societal and business opportunities. It will allow further cross-fertilisation with other economic and industrial sectors, acting as an accelerator for innovation.

Amendment  155

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 1 – point 9 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
A KIC in CCI would be complementary to number of other Union initiatives, as well as such at the level of Member States. The main synergies expected at EU level are presented below.	A KIC on CCSI would be complementary to number of other Union initiatives, as well as such at the level of Member States. The main synergies expected at EU level are presented below.

Amendment  156

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 1 – point 9 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
A KIC on CCI is expected to establish strong synergies with relevant policy initiatives under Horizon Europe Programme, and in particular under Pillar II with the cluster [Inclusive and Secure Society] and its areas of intervention on Cultural Heritage and Democracy. A future KIC could also provide valuable horizontal inputs across various activities to be carried out in the cluster [Digital and Industry], in particular as regards the manufacturing technologies in which the need to develop new products rely heavily on CCI. Furthermore, it could efficiently complement other parts of the Horizon Europe Programme, the intervention of the existing EIT Digital and the actions foreseen under other EU programmes such as InvestEU, Digital Europe or the Cohesion Policy Funds.	A KIC about the cultural and creative sectors and industries is expected to establish strong synergies with relevant policy initiatives under the Horizon Europe programme, and in particular under Pillar II with the cluster [Culture, Creativity and Inclusive Society] and its areas of intervention on Cultural Heritage and Democracy. A future KIC could also provide valuable horizontal inputs across various activities to be carried out in the cluster [Digital, Industry and Space], in particular as regards the manufacturing technologies in which the need to develop new products rely heavily on cultural and creative sectors and industries. Furthermore, it could efficiently complement other parts of the Horizon Europe programme, the intervention of the existing EIT Digital and the actions foreseen under other EU programmes such as InvestEU, Erasmus, Creative Europe, Digital Europe or the Cohesion Policy Funds.

Amendment  157

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 1 – point 9 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The new Creative Europe Programme will be highly relevant for the activities of the KIC on CCI. The Programme elects strands and special calls reflecting some of the already mentioned challenges facing the sector (e.g. creatives’ skills and employment, business models, etc.) and strong synergies and complementarities should be developed. Still under the Creative Europe Programme, and in the context of limited access to finance for the cultural and creative sectors, synergies could be expected with the Cultural and Creative Sector Guarantee Facility, a financial mechanism to help scale up cultural and creative projects by providing insurance to financial intermediaries.	The new Creative Europe Programme will be highly relevant for the activities of this KIC. The Programme elects strands and special calls reflecting some of the already mentioned challenges facing the sector (e.g. creatives’ skills and employment, business models, etc.) and strong synergies and complementarities should be developed. Still under the Creative Europe Programme, and in the context of limited access to finance for the cultural and creative sectors, synergies could be expected with the Cultural and Creative Sector Guarantee Facility, a financial mechanism to help scale up cultural and creative projects by providing insurance to financial intermediaries.

Amendment  158

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 1 – point 9 – paragraph 4

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The Smart Specialisation Strategy (S3) platform on Industrial Modernisation has identified a number of R&I strategies that focus on CCI and explore new linkages between local assets, potential markets and societal challenges through the involvement of a large set of entrepreneurial actors. In particular, the promotion of new partnerships between research organisations, enterprises and public authorities is a major concern of S3 strategies, calling for the set-up of new collaborative platforms.	The Smart Specialisation Strategy (S3) platform on Industrial Modernisation has identified a number of R&I strategies that focus on the cultural and creative sectors and industries and explore new linkages between local assets, potential markets and societal challenges through the involvement of a large set of entrepreneurial actors. In particular, the promotion of new partnerships between research organisations, enterprises and public authorities is a major concern of S3 strategies, calling for the set-up of new collaborative platforms.

Amendment  159

 

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
An EIT KIC on CCI is most suited to address the major economic and societal challenges outlined above. Creativity is a key driver of innovation and a KIC on CCI has the capacity to unleash the potential of culture-based creativity and help strengthening Europe’s competitiveness and smart growth.	An EIT KIC on CCSI is most suited to address the major economic and societal challenges outlined above. Creativity is a key driver of innovation and a KIC on cultural and creative sectors and industries has the capacity to unleash the potential of artistic, culture-based creativity and to help strengthen Europe’s competitiveness, sustainability, prosperity and smart growth.

Amendment  160

Proposal for a decision

Annex I – point 6 – table