SCI-PO 2025 conference sparked a debate on the R&D&I funding system

On 29 May 2025, the sixth annual SCI-PO conference took place at the fully booked TC Prague conference centre. The event focused on the key issue of sustainable financing for research, development and innovation in the Czech Republic after 2027. The conference brought together representatives from academia, government, business and the non-profit sector. Their discussions highlighted the importance of linking science and politics. Participants concluded that future success requires a focus on selectivity and the prioritisation of areas in which the Czech Republic can truly excel. They also stressed the need to strengthen the motivation to transfer research results into practice.

What was discussed?

The central theme was the need to build critical mass for excellence and more effective linking of public and private resources (so-called blended finance) in order to maximise the impact of investments in scientific and innovation activities.

The workshops identified specific tools and approaches that can contribute to greater sustainability of the system. Specific recommendations were also made: cascade financing to reduce administration, strengthening the role of the National Development Bank, or developing so-called funds of funds – for example in the area of digitalisation with the potential for further expansion. Support for institutional funds modelled on the Czech Technical University was also mentioned as a tool for attracting private capital.

Tools such as venture debt, small quick grants to verify the commercial potential of results, and university sabbaticals were also discussed. At the same time, however, a strong warning was issued that the introduction of new financial instruments alone is not enough – deeper systemic and cultural issues also need to be addressed. These include, for example, restructuring and streamlining research institutions, promoting cooperation, and emphasising that public funds should bring the greatest possible social and economic benefits.

The conference thus launched an important debate that will continue. Following on from this, a summary will be prepared – an Inside Paper – and subsequently a Policy Brief with proposals that can serve as a basis for decision-making. The aim is to contribute to the transformation of the research and innovation funding system so that it is truly sustainable, effective and beneficial to society as a whole after 2027.

Organizers

Technology Centre Prague, ALEVIA, CERGE-EI, CESES UK, Palacky University Olomouc

Media partners

VědaVýzkum.cz, Universitas.cz.

The SCI-PO 2025 conference was organised with the support of the shared activities project ‘Strategic Intelligence for Research and Innovation’ (MS25001) funded by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports.