The Council of the European Union, in its partial General Approaches on the Horizon Europe Framework Programme and Specific Programme for 2028-2034, has deferred its final position on the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) and its Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs). The Council's stance on the EIT and KICs will be established at a later stage, following examination of the forthcoming Commission proposal for the revision of the EIT Regulation. The Council invites the Commission to ensure its proposal provides a comprehensive and evidence-based basis for considering any future adjustments to the overall EIT framework.
The partial General Approaches, adopted on 26 June 2026, cover most aspects of the next Horizon Europe package but leave the EIT and KICs open for later decision. This deferral means that the governance, funding, and operational structure of the EIT and its KICs remain uncertain for now, pending the Commission's legislative proposal. The Council's move reflects a desire to base any changes on a thorough review rather than pre-empting the Commission's analysis.
The decision impacts several stakeholders. For EU research and innovation actors, including universities, research institutes, and companies involved in KICs, the delay creates uncertainty about future funding and collaboration frameworks. The EIT itself faces a period of limbo, as its long-term role and resources are tied to the upcoming regulation. National governments will have to wait to align their innovation strategies with the EU's final position. The European Commission is now tasked with drafting a revision that satisfies the Council's call for a comprehensive evidence base, balancing the need for stability with potential reforms.
Institutional follow-up will involve the Commission preparing the EIT Regulation revision, likely in the coming months, after which the Council will revisit its position. The European Parliament will also have a say under the ordinary legislative procedure. The partial General Approaches serve as an interim step, allowing other elements of the Horizon Europe package to advance while the EIT file is handled separately.