EU : Philantropy for research

In order to boost Europe?s innovative capacity the Commission has recently published a communication calling for further political commitment. This document has been at the heart of discussions at an informal meeting of the EU?s Heads of State and Government in Lahti, Finland, which took place last October. Besides the European Technology Platforms, the setting up of public-private partnerships and the creation of a European Institute of Technology, the Commission is informally looking at the UK model where philantropy does focus on research. A report published in January 2006, « Giving for research for Europe », tries to identify the recent initiatives, current challenges and existing trends of Europe?s philantropic organisations in funding research activities. This report is the outcome of the work of an expert group set up by the Commission. The European Foundation Centre also intends to organize a « European Forum on Philantropy and Research Funding » with the participation of foundations, trusts, charitable organizations as well as universities to raise awareness and engender debates among stakeholders. The investment in European research must help the growing humanities and social sciences sectors as well as have important benefits for society. A road map indicating the range of partnership between the profit and non profit sectors is needed. Vita Europe is already contributing to this aim with this special issue. www.efc.be www.ec.europa.eu