InterviewExcellence in the EU application process - Interview with Jennifer Bilbao

Interview with Dr. Jennifer Bilbao, Team Leader and Senior Project Manager at Steinbeis Europa Zentrum

Dr. Jennifer Bilbao has more than 20 years of experience in EU research and innovation projects. Initially she was a group leader at the Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology; today she heads the Innovation Funding Unit at the Steinbeis Europa Zentrum. She supports companies and research institutions with EU applications. Jennifer explains what makes a good proposal.

What are the challenges of EU research and innovation programs? Who are they aimed at?

The EU research programmes are aimed at organisations that want to develop innovative solutions to societal, economic and technological challenges. The biggest challenge is the strong competition and therefore the need to submit excellent proposals that demonstrate scientific, economic and social added value. Understanding the often very complex funding logic is essential.

In contrast to national and regional funding instruments, a prerequisite for EU funding is that you work together in international consortia. Often up to 20 different organisations work together. This means that the cooperation is both international and transcultural. Companies of different sizes, universities and research institutions as well as administration and consulting companies work together. In addition, applicants must adhere to strict submission deadlines and cannot submit applications at any time.

What are the success factors when applying?

A successful application is clearly structured, market-oriented and stands out with clear unique selling propositions (USP). It should explicitly reflect the objectives of the European Commission; this means that the call for proposals must be read very carefully and answered accordingly. Beyond this, the consortium must present a strong partnership and include realistic, ambitious milestones with corresponding KPIs. Convincing exploitation and communication strategies are also crucial. Appealing visualizations - such as diagrams, tables or infographics - should be used to effectively convey key messages and make the application professional and attractive.

Can you say something about the participation of women in research and innovation projects?

Women play an important role in research and innovation by bringing valuable and diverse perspectives to solving complex issues. However, they are still underrepresented in scientific leadership positions and active participation. For this reason, the EU has introduced measures to promote diversity. When proposals in EU funding programmes achieve the same score, the participation of women can be a decisive factor in prioritisation. This underlines the importance of gender balance in projects and the need to specifically integrate equal opportunities and variety. It is a clear step towards empowering women in research while promoting several perspectives in scientific projects.

We expressly welcome women in leadership positions who are interested and want to participate in an EU project. If you have no experience in this area, I recommend starting as a partner and not immediately taking on the role of project coordination. At Steinbeis Europa Zentrum, we repeatedly accompany European measures that specifically support women in innovation. For example, in the EU project STREAM IT and in the EEN2EIC project (Enterprise Europe Network to European Innovation Council). The latter aims to increase the quota of women-led companies for the Accelerator Program of the European Innovation Council. My colleagues offer advice and training on this.

What drives you? What inspires you?

I am inspired by the variety of topics and the opportunity to work on projects that have a real impact on society. Working with visionary partners and succeeding when ideas become market-ready innovations is what drives me.

With my work in consulting and the resulting projects, we are making an important contribution to a sustainable society and can thus responsibly help shape industrial change in Baden-Württemberg and Europe.

What topics are currently on your mind?

This year, I have been working intensively on bio-based products and processes. My work also focuses on sustainability, digitalisation and the integration of artificial intelligence into industrial processes. These topics are of central importance for Europe's transformation towards climate neutrality and resilience. Linking these areas enables the development of innovative solutions that combine ecological, social and economic benefits.

Sustainability, climate protection and social commitment are very important to our company. We are by now a KLIMAFIT and KLIMAWIN company. We want to contribute to greater sustainability and climate protection not only in our projects, but also in our company and set a good example.

What brought you to Steinbeis Europa Zentrum?

My path has taken me through a variety of research and consultancy positions. At Steinbeis Europa Zentrum, I can optimally combine my technical knowledge and my experience in the application process.

What makes the job at Steinbeis Europa Zentrum special?

The mix of consulting, strategy development and direct involvement in innovations makes my job unique. The broad range of applications and partners ensures that no two days are the same. In working with my colleagues, I experience a great deal of diversity and a high level of commitment. We pursue a clear vision as enablers of innovation and shapers of the future of Europe.

What advice do you have for women who want to help shape European project proposals?

Women should be courageous, contribute their skills to projects and take on responsibility. Networks, mentoring and targeted further training in EU funding programs can help to make it easier to get started.

I would also like to encourage young women to join our company. Steinbeis offers entry-level positions at various levels, as project managers or project assistants.