Politecnico di Milano opens a new hub in Brussels for research and innovation

The Brussels Liaison Office has been inaugurated as the new Politecnico di Milano office dedicated to strengthening relations with European institutions, with a focus on participation in European Union research and innovation programmes.

Its role was officially presented at the event “From Knowledge to Impact: Research and Innovation in Partnership with Society and Industry”, hosted at the European Parliament. The event was attended by representatives of European institutions, academics, and professionals.

Through this initiative, Politecnico di Milano aims to anticipate the priorities and instruments of European research policy, while enhancing its visibility and influence at the EU level.

The University already plays a leading role in EU-funded programmes: it is the top Italian university for Horizon Europe funding, with 389 approved projects worth approximately €186 million in total, and it has secured 44 ERC grants amounting to €44.65 million in the 2021–2027 funding period. Between 2021 and January 2026, 29 proposals were funded under the European Innovation Council (EIC), with a success rate among the highest in Europe (10.7%).

“Europe is experiencing a crucial moment for advanced research and competitiveness,” said Donatella Sciuto, Rector of Politecnico di Milano. “With the opening of our Brussels office, we are not asking what we can obtain, but what we can bring to the table of decision-makers. We are the leading Italian university for EU projects and rank fifth in Europe. Our goal is to strengthen ties with the institutions and contribute to shaping European priorities.”

The Brussels Liaison Office will serve as a strategic hub connecting the University with the European research and innovation ecosystem. It will support researchers in accessing EU programmes and facilitate collaboration with the European industrial system. Its objectives also include participation in international partnerships and high-impact projects.

With this initiative, Politecnico di Milano reinforces a long-term strategy aimed at strengthening its scientific competitiveness and its contribution to the development of European policies at a pivotal moment for the future of the Europe of knowledge.

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