Last summer the European Commission launched a consultation to inform the 2016-2017 “Science with and for Society” Programme (part of the Horizon 2020 funding framework). You will remember that Ecsite called for contributions from science engagement organizations – the resulting statements were submitted about two weeks ago. We are now waiting to hear from the Commission when results will be made public. Meanwhile, we are publishing our contribution – see attached pdf. We identified five priorities:

1. Accessibility of outcomes from publicly funded research (including science engagement projects) in formats adapted to the public
2. Integration of citizens and society in the innovation process to encourage scientific/technological solutions with a good uptake from society and foster entrepreneurial culture
3. Engagement of young people in STEM learning and careers in informal settings, recognizing the importance of motivation and enjoyment to reach this audience
4. Stimulation of innovative science engagement for adults, allowing their involvement in defining the research and innovation agenda in line with social needs and priorities
5. Capacity building in European and local institutions and their networks.

With special thanks to Rosalia Vargas (Ciência Viva, Lisbon, Portugal), Brigitte Coutant (universcience, Paris, France) and Maya Halevy (Bloomfield Science Museum Jerusalem, Israel) who helped synthetize contributions.