The role of Framework Programmes in commercialisation and innovation growth shown through research results – evaluation research of the Polish effects

Abstract

The article presents the results of evaluation research whose aim was the assessment of the effects of completed projects implemented by Polish research departments within the European Union Framework Programmes. This evaluation is the first attempt at a comprehensive analysis of the effects of Polish projects backed by this type of financial support. The research was conducted on the basis of three evaluation structuring criteria: effectiveness, utility and sustainability. The analysis considers three consecutive Framework Programmes which enable the assessment of participation effects and evolution of experiences of Polish beneficiaries over time. The results of the research was juxtaposed with the results of similar evaluation research in other countries, which increased the objectivity of the conclusions. The research pointed to the high effectiveness of achieving strategic goals at institutional level and the career development of individual scientists, as well as low effectiveness in economic output, meaning the impact on innovation is low. Such results are not only a features of Polish participation in framework programmes, but they also correspond to international research which highlights the implementation of other non-innovation geared research objectives.