Commission outlines first integrated strategy for research and innovation

The Commission on 12 October 2005 tabled an integrated innovation/research action plan, calling for a major upgrade of the conditions for research and innovation in Europe. It launched ambitious initiatives to promote innovation and research, such as redeployment of state aid, improved efficiency of intellectual property protection, mobilisation of additional funds for research, creation of innovation poles, and improving university-industry partnerships. For the first time, the plan offered an integrated approach to EU research and innovation policies, and was particularly focused on improving the conditions for private sector investment in R&D and innovation.