Commission adopts revised State aid Framework for research, development, and innovation

The European Commission adopted a revised Communication on State aid rules for research, development, and innovation (‘2022 RDI Framework'), which sets out the rules under which Member States can grant State aid to companies for RDI activities, while ensuring a level playing field. The 2022 RDI Framework, which contributes to the EU's strategic objectives relating to the green and digital transitions, has entered into force today.

The adoption of the 2022 RDI Framework follows an evaluation of the existing rules launched in 2019 as part of the State aid Fitness Check. The Commission has also carried out an extensive consultation of all interested parties on the proposed revised text of the Communication. This included contributions from Member States, business and research associations, interest groups and companies, NGOs, and citizens.

In particular, the targeted amendments are:

• Update the existing definitions of research and innovation activities eligible for support under the RDI Framework

• Enable public support for testing and experimentation infrastructures required to develop, test and upscale technologies

• Simplify certain rules to facilitate the practical application of the RDI Framework and to alleviate possible excessive administrative burden for companies and public authorities

At the same time, the 2022 RDI Framework maintains safeguards to ensure that aid is limited to what is necessary and does not lead to undue distortions of competition.

More information to be found here.

Source:

European Commission, press release of 19 October 2022.