European Technology Platforms (ETPs) are industry-led stakeholder fora charged with defining research priorities in a broad range of technological areas.
ETPs provide a framework for stakeholders, led by industry, to define research priorities and action plans on a number of technological areas where achieving EU growth, competitiveness and sustainability requires major research and technological advances in the medium to long term. Some European Technology Platforms are loose networks that come together in annual meetings, but others are establishing legal structures with membership fees.
They work on developing and updating agendas of research priorities for their particular sector. These agendas constitute valuable input to define European research funding schemes. Since they are developed through dialogue among industrial and public researchers and national government representatives, they also contribute to create consensus and to improve alignment of investment efforts. Avoiding duplication and making the most of poles of excellence and best practices is one of the great challenges of European research, and ETPs are a very good vehicle to improve synergies.
ETPs foster effective public-private partnerships, contributing significantly to the development of a European Research Area of knowledge for growth. Public-private partnerships can address technological challenges that could be key for sustainable development, for the improved delivery of public services and for the restructuring of traditional industrial sectors.
The European Commission does not own or manage European Technology Platforms, which are independent organisations. The European Commission did, however, support their creation and remains engaged with them in structural dialogue on research issues.
ETPs Activities
European Technology Platform for Water (WssTP)
17-18 May 2011 in Brussels - WssTP 4th Stakeholder Event
Every year, WssTP organises a Stakeholder event that aims at gather key representatives, speakers and stakeholders to discuss and provide recommendations to the European Commission in order to boost a strong and competitive water sector. In 2011, the focus of this event will be on strengthening collaboration in research and innovation for a "Water Efficient Europe." We will discuss the ongoing challenges of a shaping a successful European Innovation Partnership for water to bring joint efforts and involvement from stakeholders towards the accomplishment of the Innovation Union.
Last updated on: 2011-05-10