Chair

Chair priorities

Priority 1: Creating value for Eureka’s beneficiaries, members, and partner organisations

In the year of Eureka’s 40th anniversary, we will highlight the value of the network in supporting global cooperation and the internationalisation of companies by showcasing the benefits of membership from the perspective of the different Eureka countries.

We will facilitate access to dynamic innovation sectors with a particular focus on life sciences, thereby opening doors for new partnerships and innovation. Events such as the Global Innovation Summit 2026 and Swiss Biotech Days in Basel offer country delegations excellent networking opportunities and targeted matchmaking for companies. Collaboration with the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) will further strengthen these connections and unlock future synergies.

To better serve Eureka’s members, we will prioritise their needs and encourage collaboration through more interactive meeting formats and strengthened peer support opportunities. In addition, we will promote joint initiatives and stimulate discussion on how forward-looking planning could improve the financing and impact of future multilateral calls in thematic areas.

The Swiss Chair will pursue the network’s goal of providing good framework conditions for its members in Europe and across the globe. We will continue to explore, how Eureka can expand its international reach through the Globalstars programme and the integration of associated countries.

Milestones

40th anniversary project
Global Innovation Summit 2026
Collaboration with Enterprise Europe Network and Swiss Biotech Days
Re-association of Argentina and Chile

Priority 2: Focusing on impact and shaping the future funding portfolio

To better meet expectations of beneficiaries, we aim to enhance customer orientation in Eureka’s funding offers by streamlining processes in line with Eureka’s strategic goals.

Understanding the specific benefits of Eureka to each member will be essential. A thorough needs and gap analysis will pave the way for potential scenarios regarding the funding portfolio.

We will actively maintain a high-level dialogue between Eureka and the European Commission in order to explore collaboration opportunities and maximise synergies.

Finally, by moderating discussions on pressing issues such as “research security” and “civil versus dual use”, we will reaffirm Eureka’s commitment to responsible and future-oriented innovation for the benefit of its members.

Milestones

Analysis paper, “Funding portfolio”
Taskforce, “Cooperation with the European Commission in Framework Programme 10”

Priority 3: Pursuing operational excellence

We will use the Eureka strategy as a foundation for discussions and decisions across the network. In collaboration with the Executive Board and the next Belgian Chair, we will gather input from members to jointly develop the 2026–2030 roadmap. This roadmap will also support the Eureka Secretariat (ESE) in preparing a multiannual business plan.

To ensure efficient operations, we will promote lean procedures based on learning and members’ operational experiences. Furthermore, we will clarify roles and responsibilities across governing bodies, and design inclusive, value-added meeting formats.

Maintaining institutional knowledge and ensuring consistent leadership of the network are crucial. The Swiss Chair will work closely with the Troika – Canada, Germany and Belgium – to ensure a smooth renewal process for the Executive Board and the Risk and Audit Committee, and to continue long-term Chair planning.