EU Innovation Journey'25

My background is in biomedical technology, and I have spent a significant part of my career developing pharmaceutical molecules in both Estonia and the U.S., including in the private sector. About three years ago, I had the opportunity to join the newly established Applied Research Program (RUP), which has since grown into Estonia’s most significant initiative funding private sector R&D. RUP brings together experts from various technological fields—such as ICT, materials science, and energy—who have prior experience in private sector research and development. With RUP’s support, nearly 1,000 Estonian companies have enhanced their innovation capabilities, and more than 200 projects have been funded with a total of over €100 million. The first successfully completed development projects have enabled participating companies to achieve productivity levels 120% above the EU average, providing them with a clear competitive advantage.