The University Alliances contributing to this vision statement express their support to the Startup Village Initiative of the European Commission, as manifested in the New European Research and Innovation Agenda (NEIA).

We agree that universities are key actors in supporting the achievement of more deep tech innovations as expressed in the NEIA.

Based on its individual strengths and capabilities, each University Alliance is willing to contribute accordingly to the group effort that aims to pursue the provision of the following concrete actions:

• open up experimental facilities and spaces for startups
• strengthen the innovation ecosystem within and around the institutions and find the best ways to engage local communities
• connect innovative regions through the alliances’ networks
• ensure development and mobility of deep tech technology talent within Europe
• promote inclusion and diversity – female entrepreneurship in particular and attract global talent through attractive and inclusive education environments
• all of this should be based on the promotion of future-oriented interdisciplinary, transdisciplinary, and entrepreneurship skills

We, the University Alliances, will foster the exchange amongst our newly established alliance network that we have built. Through continuous and fruitful communication, we will raise awareness for the specifics of the regions across Europe.

In doing so, we aim to be more responsive to the needs of the regions across Europe. That way, our member universities can more effectively address the most pressing societal and economic challenges through one of the most powerful means – knowledge. 

Together we will pave the way for a smart, creative, and entrepreneurial society.