Shaping the Future of Impact Licensing: Insights from Brussels

Partners of the Impact Licensing Initiative convened in Brussels on 20 March to review the project’s progress and align on the next phases of implementation. The meeting brought together consortium members alongside representatives from the European Commission, including the European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA) and the Directorate-General for Research and Innovation (DG RTD).

The day began with a comprehensive overview of the project’s overall status and major achievements to date. Partners presented the work carried out across different work packages, highlighting key outputs, ongoing activities, and lessons learned. This was followed by a forward-looking discussion outlining upcoming tasks, priorities, and expected milestones for the coming months.

In addition to progress updates, the agenda featured strategic discussions on several core topics. These included the development of a policy narrative around socially responsible intellectual property (IP) practices, as well as an exploration of the opportunities and added value that impact licensing can offer in fostering innovation with societal benefits.

The meeting also provided a platform to reflect on the broader role of impact licensing within the European research and innovation landscape. Participants exchanged views on how to strengthen uptake, support stakeholders, and ensure alignment with EU policy objectives.

The session concluded with a dedicated discussion on the roadmap for future contributions and concrete next steps, reinforcing the partners’ shared commitment to advancing the initiative and maximizing its long-term impact.