From Labs to Life: How AI Can Unlock Europe’s Innovation Potential
Despite being home to some of the world’s most talented researchers and globally renowned universities, Europe struggles to translate scientific excellence into commercially viable innovations. This long-standing issue—widely referred to as the “European Innovation Paradox”—is holding the continent back from global competitiveness in high-tech sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology, and advanced digital infrastructure.
To address this paradox, Europe needs a radical rethink in how it valorises knowledge. The integration of artificial intelligence into knowledge valorisation systems can be a game-changer, optimising the path from discovery to deployment, and turning academic research into impactful innovations at scale.
The Innovation Paradox: A Structural Bottleneck
European researchers are prolific. Studies show that projects funded by the European Research Council (ERC) generate high-quality science with significantly more patent citations than comparable research[1]. Yet, this scientific prowess doesn’t equate to market dominance. Europe lags in key tech sectors like AI and advanced semiconductors, while the US and China surge ahead[2]
According to the 2024 EU Innovation Policy report, less than 5% of Horizon Europe funding is dedicated to disruptive innovation. Most of it goes to near-market R&D, which does not foster entirely new markets. Similarly, only 40% of EU companies invest in R&D, compared to 56% in the US, further widening the commercialisation gap2
AI-Powered Valorisation: Transforming Potential into Impact
Knowledge valorisation—transforming research outputs into social or economic value—is a key lever in solving the innovation paradox. However, traditional methods of valorisation are slow, manual, and heavily siloed. This is where AI tools come in:
Semantic search and matchmaking: AI can map scientific findings to real-world industry needs, enabling more targeted collaboration between universities and enterprises.
IP analysis and market prediction: Machine learning algorithms can assess the commercial potential of research in real-time, guiding institutions on whether to patent, publish, or license.
Startup scouting and scaling: AI can help identify spinout opportunities early, connecting scientific teams with VCs, legal advisors, and incubators.
Ireland’s National IP Protocol already emphasises system-wide approaches to research commercialisation, with roles clearly defined for researchers, investors, and technology transfer offices[3]. Embedding AI into such frameworks can accelerate their implementation across Europe.
Europe’s Policy Response: AI for Knowledge Valorisation
Recognising the urgency, the European Commission has taken a decisive step. Under Horizon Europe, it has launched a Coordination and Support Action (CSA) titled:
“Artificial Intelligence for Knowledge Valorisation” (HORIZON-CL4-INDUSTRY-2025-01-HUMAN-62)
View call on EU Funding & Tenders Portal
This CSA aims to develop, pilot, and promote AI tools that support the discovery, transfer, and uptake of research outputs across disciplines and sectors. It’s a direct acknowledgment that valorisation must be reimagined through digital means, making knowledge transfer faster, smarter, and more inclusive.
Join the Mission: Be Part of an AI-Powered Valorisation Future
Eagle Synergy Network is proud to announce its leadership of this CSA proposal. We will develop and test an AI-powered valorisation toolbox to support researchers and innovators in translating knowledge into market and societal impact.
We are currently seeking R&I organizations and SMEs with expertise in:
Modular AI tool design (e.g., opportunity detection, IP mapping, business modelling)
User interface/dashboard development with multilingual and regional customization
Integration of human-in-the-loop feedback mechanisms
Compliance with AI ethics, GDPR, the EU AI Act, and SSH best practices
We especially welcome SMEs or tech labs experienced in delivering usable, ethical, and policy-aligned AI platforms across Europe.
If your organization brings unique value to this vision, we’d love to hear from you.
Contact us at: goldi@eagle-synergy.com
Conclusion: From Insight to Impact, Powered by AI
Europe is rich in knowledge but poor in innovation output. With AI, we have the tools to change this. By embedding intelligence into the systems that transform research into innovation, Europe can finally bridge the gap between scientific excellence and commercial success.
Through initiatives like the AI for Knowledge Valorisation CSA, and with leadership from mission-driven innovators like Eagle Synergy Network, Europe is no longer just identifying the innovation paradox—it’s actively solving it.
[1]ERC science and invention: Does ERC break free from the EU Paradox? https://doi.org/10.1016/j.respol.2024.105038
[2] https://european-research-area.ec.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2024
[3] https://www.knowledgetransferireland.com/Reports-Publications/Ireland-s-National-IP-Protocol-2019-.pdf (2)