CEN and CENELEC are pleased to announce the successful kick-off of the new Advisory Committee on Research & Innovation (AC R&I), which took place on 29 and 30 October 2025 in Brussels, under the leadership of Fernando Utrilla (UNE).
The new Committee brings together CEN and CENELEC Members, their nominated stakeholders from research institutions, as well as partners and representatives from various European Commission services.
The AC R&I will act as the focal point within CEN and CENELEC for all matters related to the integration of standardization, research, and innovation, including education in standardization. Its work will play a central role in supporting the CEN and CENELEC Strategy 2030 and its implementation.
Reporting to the CEN and CENELEC Board Standing Committee on Policy & Strategy (BSC P&S), the AC R&I will develop recommendations on policies, strategies, and initiatives that strengthen the links between standardization, research, and innovation. It will also foster collaboration across the European standardization community and with external stakeholders from industry, academia, research organizations, and public authorities.
The launch meeting set the foundation for the Committee’s future activities, marking an important milestone towards a more connected and innovation-driven European standardization system - one that supports a stronger, more resilient, and competitive Europe.
