DIGITALEUROPE views on the EU R&I Strategic Plan: Future of partnerships – Missions

• The Strategic Plan implementing Horizon Europe must be the result of a transparent process with stakeholder consultation and dialogue during all its phases.
• The industry must be involved in the design of public-private partnerships through a structured dialogue, consulted on missions, and represented in boards and other governance bodies or forums.
• Technological neutrality must be ensured: missions and partnerships should focus on objectives and goals rather than favouring specific technologies.

On public-private partnerships 

• The Strategic Plan should carefully assess which type of partnership is relevant for the objectives set by public sector and industry.
• Capping the partnerships’ budget would endanger the whole partnership landscape without simplifying it.
• Clear contractual rules for each partnership for the extent of Horizon Europe would ensure legal certainty for private and public partners and ensure long-term planning.
• Phasing-out rules must be flexible. Successful partnerships must be able to continue their activities in the Framework Programme following Horizon Europe.
• Early termination of partnerships must be based on clear reasons, with prior consultation of the beneficiaries and without prejudice on private funding and ongoing projects.

On missions

• Only a few missions should be launched as a pilot, with limited budget. Only after positive evaluation should additional missions be implemented.