The European Commission has published three studies on the R&I measures in the Recovery and Resilience Facility focusing on EU innovation leaders and strong innovators, on emerging innovators and on moderate innovators.
The frist case study analyses how Innovation Leaders and Strong Innovators—based on the European Innovation Scoreboard—used RRF funding mainly to expand existing R&I policies. Countries like Sweden, Denmark, Germany, and France concentrated RRF resources on mature R&I programmes, strengthening financial support but rarely introducing new reforms. RRF allocations were modest relative to national budgets and aimed to accelerate project timelines and mitigate negative impacts of the crisis. While RRF improved implementation and alignment with EU priorities, limited synergies with other EU funding were found. Overall, RRF support reinforced established strategies, with long-term impacts reliant on continued national commitment.
In terms Emerging Innovators, the RRF has significantly boosted R&I in those countries—Croatia, Poland, and Slovakia—acting as a transformative tool through reforms and investments. Each country used distinct approaches, reflecting their institutional strengths and priorities: Croatia integrated RRF measures with existing strategies, Poland reinforced sectoral policies in key areas, and Slovakia created a unified R&I framework. Most RRF support focused on strengthening research competitiveness and governance, with Croatia standing out for smooth implementation. Although progress on targets varied, all aim for sustainability beyond 2026, largely depending on future policy ambition, stable funding, and effective use of cohesion policy resources.
The third case study examines RRF funding for research and innovation in Moderate Innovator countries, focusing on Italy, Lithuania, Portugal, and Spain. These nations implemented most R&I-related measures and received significant funding, enabling both transformative reforms and continuity. The RRF became a key driver for innovation, promoting collaboration between universities and businesses, and reinforcing existing national priorities while introducing systemic changes, acording to the study. Progress varies across countries, with many targets achieved, but administrative complexity remains a challenge. Complementarities with Horizon Europe and Cohesion Policy are underutilised, highlighting the need for improved coordination and sustained support to ensure long-term innovation impact.
The studies can be downloaded here:
Case study on Innovation Leaders and Strong Innovators