PNRR and research: how to ensure the continuity of projects beyond 2026

The resources allocated by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) for research projects are limited and subject to expiry. Therefore, it is crucial to foster an effective dialogue between research, business and funders to ensure the sustainability of the results achieved. We discussed this with Fabrizio Cobis, manager of the Ministry of Universities and Research (MUR), during the Third General Meeting of MUSA, to understand how to face this challenge.

Dr Cobis, what initiatives is the MUR promoting to strengthen the synergy between research and project funders?
‘This is one of the most crucial aspects of current interventions. The large size of the investment requires not only quick utilisation, but also quality. We know that the deadline is set for December 2025, so all activities must be completed both technically and administratively by that date. This requires close cooperation between two worlds that, historically, have often struggled to communicate: researchers and project managers.

We have understood this need from the outset, seeing the rules and deadlines of the NRP. Our task is to foster an ongoing dialogue between these two realities, stimulating mutual understanding of their respective rules, needs and paths. Each sector has its own peculiarities, but they must work in synergy without distorting each other. It is not always easy, but the current results show that we are going in the right direction. However, there is always room for improvement and progress, and we work daily to stay on this course. If we fail to do so, we risk missing not only a financial opportunity, but also a cultural transformation opportunity for the entire research system.’

Europe is funding projects like MUSA for about three years. How can the foundations be laid for these projects to continue independently after 2026?
‘The foundations are laid by understanding the demands and lessons from the NRP. This plan asks us to work differently, with an approach that is more results-oriented than compliance-oriented, and more focused on objectives than on procedures. Learning to operate in this way on a daily basis will allow us to build a solid ground on which to base future activities. We know that resources will run out, but we must prepare ourselves adequately so that we are not unprepared.
If all these aspects are put into practice right now in the implementation of the programmes, we will be able to ensure the continuity of the projects even after 2026. Knowing how to work differently is the key to continuing independently after the end of European funding.’

Dr Fabrizio Cobis’ speech highlights the importance of close cooperation between research, management and funders for the long-term success of projects funded by the PNRR. It is only through a cultural and operational change that the research system in Italy will be able to meet future challenges and ensure the sustainability of its results.