New study on Knowledge Valorisation metrics

The European Commission has released a study that examines how research and innovation activities generate economic and societal value across the EU and associated countries, responding to the growing interest in Knowledge Valorisation (KV) as a driver of economic growth, innovation capacity, and strategic autonomy. The study reviews the existing evidence base and proposes an exploratory framework built around 16 indicators and 41 metrics. 

The purpose

The purpose of this study was to establish a comprehensive framework for measuring the wide range of knowledge valorisation activities across EU Member States and associated countries within the European Research Area (ERA). As mentioned in the study, KV is not fully captured in existing R&I measurement frameworks, which focus primarily on technology transfer indicators and do not adequately account for other valorisation pathways. Additionally, there is no harmonised measurement framework at the EU level, and measurement practices remain fragmented and uneven across Member States. To address this gap, the study pursued two objectives:

• Mapping existing indicators, metrics, and data sources relevant to KV, assessing their strengths, limitations, and feasibility for EU-wide application.
• Developing an exploratory measurement framework covering all KV channels, combining established metrics with emerging ones, and reflecting both economic and societal forms of value

Methodology

This framework was developed through a multi-stage process involving documentary reviews and several consultation rounds. The research work included extensive desk research, mapping of institutional and open-access databases, 25 expert interviews, and three stakeholder workshops involving more than 102 participants. This process ensured that the framework is analytically robust, operationally grounded, and aligned with stakeholder needs.

The proposed measurement framework comprises 16 indicators measured through 41 metrics, designed to capture the full spectrum of valorisation activities across seven channels. Indicators operate at a meso-level, summarising key dimensions of performance, while the underlying metrics provide the quantitative basis for cross-country comparison and longitudinal monitoring. Each indicator is supported by a detailed factsheet specifying its conceptual scope, methodology, data sources, coverage, and limitations, ensuring transparency and facilitating future refinement and implementation.

This work forms part of an action under the European Research Area (ERA) Policy Agenda 2025–27. 

Download the full study here.