Blog

Bridging the Gap Between Policy Ambition and Reality

13 October 2025

James Phipps

Complete the survey

Evidence to action

Does a lack of data, a shortage of planning time, or the constant pressure of limited financial resources sound familiar? If so, you’re not alone.

And when we say ‘you’, we’re talking to a broad group of professionals involved in developing, implementing, evaluating, or providing support for research and innovation (R&I) policies and programmes. 

Early findings from our new survey show that the challenges mentioned above are the top three your peers across the UK and Europe face when trying to improve their programmes.

Yet, despite these daily realities, our data shows a clear commitment to what truly matters. When asked what is most important in designing new policies, the top two answers were the views of those affected by the policy (cited by 63% of early respondents) and existing evidence on effectiveness (54%).

This creates a crucial question, as policymakers in the UK, the EU and beyond seek “more agile and evidence-based approaches” to tackle complex societal challenges. How can we bridge the gap between this ambition and the real-world constraints professionals like you face every day?

Interestingly, the survey results offer a potential clue. When we asked what would encourage people to get involved in new initiatives to test and learn, the number one answer wasn’t a personal incentive, but the opportunity to join a community of practice with other organisations (60%).

This suggests a strong appetite for connection and shared learning. This survey is a vital part of a broader initiative to explore how to provide better support for innovation in policymaking. Your response provides the direct evidence needed to help institutions like the European Commission and national bodies design future resources and support networks that are fit-for-purpose.

Already, almost 200 of your peers have shared their perspective. Now we need to hear from you.

Help shape the future of evidence-based policymaking.

Click here to take the 10-minute survey, which is available in many languages: https://eu.mar.medallia.com/?e=461456&d=l&h=F40E0F781071477. 

Deadline for responses: 24 October 2025

Our primary focus is on policymakers in the UK and the EU. Whether you are in a national government ministry like the UK’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), an innovation agency like Sweden’s Vinnova, or a regional funding body, your perspective is crucial. Perspectives from other countries are also welcome. Please share this with colleagues in your network—your collective insights will help build a stronger foundation for innovative and effective policy, wherever you are based.

—————————————–

This work is part of a project led by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Research and Innovation (DG RTD) and is being delivered by the Innovation Growth Lab (IGL) in collaboration with Technopolis Group.