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Politecnico di Milano Expands Its Horizon with a New Office in Brussels

On February 6, 2026, the Politecnico di Milano marked a significant milestone by inaugurating its new liaison office in Brussels. This strategic establishment aims to enhance communications with EU institutions and facilitate participation in European research and innovation programs. The office was introduced at the European Parliament during the event titled "From Knowledge to Impact: Research and Innovation in Partnership with Society and Industry." This gathering included representatives from various European institutions, researchers, and university professors, highlighting the university's intention to strengthen its presence and efficacy in EU matters.

The opening of the Brussels office comes at a crucial time when the NRRP is nearing completion, presenting an opportunity to discuss the future of EU funding and research frameworks. The upcoming EU framework program is set to play a pivotal role in shaping research funding and enhancing the international standing of universities. This proactive approach has led the Politecnico di Milano to establish a structured public office in Brussels. The university aims to anticipate and respond to the evolving priorities of European research and innovation policies effectively.

The Politecnico di Milano has already established itself as Italy's leading university in terms of funds received under the Horizon Europe program, showcasing an impressive 389 funded projects worth approximately €185.68 million. Additionally, the institution has secured 44 ERC projects valued at €44.65 million under the 2021-2027 framework program, confirming its role as a key player in groundbreaking research.

In the realm of innovation, between 2021 and January 2026, the Politecnico di Milano received funding for 29 proposals through the European Innovation Council (EIC) with a notable success rate of 10.7%, ranking among the highest in Europe. Donatella Sciuto, the Rector of the Politecnico di Milano, emphasized the institution's commitment to contributing to the continent's future by stating, “We are the first university in Italy in terms of funded research projects by the Union and the fifth at the EU level. This is a crucial moment for the next framework program, FP10, where priorities and actions will be defined.”

With the establishment of the Brussels office, the Politecnico di Milano aims to foster closer ties with EU institutions and actively participate in setting continental priorities in research and innovation. Serving as a strategic hub, the Brussels office will maintain ongoing dialogue with EU entities and assist in shaping strategic agendas in relevant fields. This initiative provides researchers with more structured support for their participation in EU programs, especially concerning upcoming planning cycles.

Moreover, the Brussels office can strengthen connections between universities, research teams, and the European industry. It allows for increased participation in international partnerships and the development of high-impact research and innovation projects, exemplified by new initiatives like the European Strategic Partnership for Advanced Materials IAM-I.

The event in the European Parliament attracted important stakeholders, including European Commission representatives and leaders of key European research and innovation bodies, who shared their perspectives on the challenges looming over the next European planning cycle. The roles of universities, research, and industry were critically examined, underlining the necessity for collaboration across sectors.

With this new office in Brussels, the Politecnico di Milano is solidifying its long-term strategy to enhance scientific competitiveness, engage in meaningful dialogues with European institutions, and contribute to the evolution of EU policies in research and innovation at a decisive juncture for the Knowledge Europe initiative.