Europe is preparing the next Framework Programme for Research and Innovation, known as FP10. At this decisive moment, the role of SMEs in European innovation must be strengthened. A new position paper by the NetworldEurope SME Working Group, presents concrete recommendations to help small and medium-sized enterprises play a stronger role in Europe’s research and innovation ecosystem.
Martel is proud to have contributed to this position paper titled “SMEs’ Role in European Innovation: Recommendations to Enable Better SME Contributions in FP10”, through Massimo Neri, Martel’s Chief Technology Officer, both as an editor and contributor to the publication.
Why SMEs in European innovation matter
SMEs are among Europe’s most agile innovators. They bring specialised expertise, flexibility, and the ability to respond quickly to emerging technological challenges.
In areas such as 6G, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, and next-generation connectivity, SMEs often develop highly focused solutions that complement the scale of large industrial actors.
However, the position paper shows that SMEs still face structural barriers in European research and innovation programmes. These include complex administrative procedures, financial capacity requirements, limited influence in governance, and difficulties in scaling results from research to market.
Key recommendations for FP10
The paper calls for FP10 to become more accessible, flexible, and SME-friendly. Its recommendations focus on several priority areas.
First, it calls for a reduction in bureaucracy. Simpler proposal processes, lighter reporting, and faster payment cycles would allow SMEs to dedicate more resources to innovation.
Second, it recommends improved funding models. This includes better pre-financing, more proportionate financial checks, and funding conditions that reflect the realities of smaller organisations.
Third, the paper highlights the need to bridge the gap between research and market. SMEs need stronger support for piloting, certification, market entry, investor readiness, and scale-up.
Fourth, it calls for better collaboration across the European innovation ecosystem. Stronger links between SMEs, large industry, research organisations, end users, and innovation agencies would make projects more effective and more market-oriented.
Finally, the paper underlines the importance of responsible innovation. Ethics, trust, social impact, and regulatory compliance should be integrated from the beginning of technology development, not added later as an afterthought.
From SME participation to SME leadership
One of the central messages of the paper is that SMEs should not be treated only as participants in European innovation projects. They should also be recognised as leaders. This means giving SMEs a stronger role in project coordination, technical leadership, governance bodies, and strategic decision-making. It also means ensuring that FP10 reflects the operational realities of agile, innovation-driven companies. By enabling SME-led innovation, Europe can strengthen its competitiveness, technological sovereignty, and resilience.
Martel’s commitment to European research and innovation
For more than 30 years, Martel has supported European research and innovation across digital technologies, connectivity, AI, cybersecurity, next-generation internet, virtual worlds, and data-driven infrastructures. As an SME active in European collaborative research, Martel understands both the opportunities and the challenges addressed in the position paper. Massimo Neri’s contribution reflects Martel’s continued commitment to shaping a European innovation landscape where SMEs are empowered to move from participation to leadership.
Looking ahead to FP10
The design of FP10 will influence Europe’s research and innovation priorities for the next decade. Ensuring that SMEs have the right support, visibility, and leadership opportunities will be essential. Europe’s innovation future depends on mobilising the full strength of its ecosystem. SMEs must be at the heart of that effort. The NetworldEurope SME Working Group position paper offers a timely and practical contribution to this debate.
