EU Action Plan ‘Women in Research, Innovation and Start-ups’: Commission launches public consultation

The European Commission is preparing an EU Action Plan for women in research, innovation and start-ups. This initiative aims to reduce existing gender imbalances and, in the long term, strengthen diversity, equality and inclusion in the European Research Area (ERA). Through this plan, the EU intends to establish the ERA as the world's most attractive destination for women in research, innovation, and entrepreneurship by 2030. Better utilisation of all talent, regardless of gender, should also contribute significantly to Europe's competitiveness and innovative strength.

Background to the initiative

Despite the progress that has already been made, women remain underrepresented in many areas of research and innovation, particularly in STEM subjects, leadership positions, the business sector, and technology-driven start-ups. The planned action plan is based on the European Research Area and the EU Framework Programmes for Research and Innovation, and it aims to create synergies with other EU strategies, such as those that promote start-ups, scale-ups, and gender equality.

Public feedback expressly welcome

As part of a call for comments, the European Commission is now inviting stakeholders from the worlds of science, business, politics and civil society to share their views. All feedback received will be incorporated directly into the development of the action plan and made publicly available.

Feedback deadline: 23 January to 23 February 2026 (midnight, Brussels time)

Relevance for Bavarian stakeholders

The consultation offers universities, research institutions, companies, start-ups and innovation networks in Bavaria an opportunity to highlight their experiences, challenges and needs, and to actively shape the future direction of Europe, particularly with regard to career paths, working conditions, funding instruments and the structural framework for research and innovation.

Get involved now and submit your feedback