Shaping the next phase of EU Missions

Shaping the next phase of EU Missions

As the European Commission advances its plans for the next Framework Programme (FP10) and outlines the current funding horizon for the EU Missions until 2030, ERRIN continues to actively support and promote the mission-oriented approach as a cornerstone of European research and innovation policy. 

EU Missions going forward 

The Commission’s current proposal foresees Mission funding through Horizon Europe continuing until 2030, followed by a review in early 2026. This evaluation will be a crucial opportunity to assess the progress and achievements of the Missions. 

At ERRIN, we believe that the mission-oriented approach remains one of the most effective tools to address complex societal challenges –  from climate adaptation and climate-neutral cities to healthy soils, restored oceans and waters and cancer prevention. Missions translate EU-level ambitions into local and regional action, empowering territories to lead systemic change through innovation, governance transformation and citizen engagement. 

By 2030, the Missions can deliver measurable progress: enhanced climate resilience, restored ecosystems and more sustainable innovation ecosystems across Europe. Yet, their deeper value lies in transforming governance models and embedding collaboration and citizen participation into policymaking.  

However, 2030 should mark a milestone, not an endpoint: 

“Ending funding in 2030 risks undermining progress just as many initiatives begin to deliver tangible results. Tackling societal challenges do not end in 2030; continued support is needed to maintain momentum.”, said Pirita Lindholm, ERRIN Director, in a recent Science Business article on the future of the EU Missions.

ERRIN advocates for a long-term vision where Missions evolve into adaptive frameworks driving systemic change and cross-sectoral collaboration beyond 2030. For example, the Cities Mission sets a 2050 target for full climate neutrality, showing how the 2030 objectives are milestones in a longer transition process.  

Collaborating across borders: insights from Austrian EU Missions 

ERRIN recently participated in a two-day workshop in Vienna, organised by AIT Austrian Institute of Technology and Joanneum Research, bringing together members of the International Support Group to the Austrian Mission Facility. 

The first day focused on the progress of EU Missions in Austria, sharing experiences across Member States and the OECD and exploring impact pathways and monitoring approaches. The second day centred on mission-orientated approach in the next Multiannual Financial Framework 2028-2034 (MFF). Sessions included reflections on the current MFF and FP10 proposals and the development of recommendations to strengthen the role of Missions in EU R&I policy, including their linkages with the European Competitiveness Fund. 

These workshops offered valuable opportunities to exchange insights, discuss lessons learned and shape the evolution of EU Missions at both national and European levels, reinforcing ERRIN’s commitment to supporting mission-oriented innovation across regions. 

Updated EU Missions webpages 

ERRIN has also updated its EU Missions webpages to make them more practical and useful for members. The new overview page provides a clear introduction to the five Missions, highlights ERRIN’s role and links to individual Mission pages. Each Mission-specific page now follows a common, user-friendly structure, including an “how to get involved” sessions presenting open opportunities (e.g., Horizon Europe Missions calls, events, Communities of Practice activities).  

Visit the updated pages here.  

Read ERRIN's input paper on the EU Missions in FP10 here.