The geopolitical situation is changing rapidly. Both Europe and the Middle East face the challenge of becoming more independent and innovating on their own. But how do we achieve that? Often, more funding is proposed as the solution. Mario Draghi suggests Europe must invest €800 billion annually in innovation—an amount that surpasses the Marshall Plan after World War II. To put it in perspective, rebuilding the entire Gaza Strip would cost €53 billion just once.

But is more money really the answer? “More budget for innovation works counterproductively for radical innovation,” says Bernard Hulsman, author of Radical Innovation, founder of Challenge to Innovation B.V., and the newest member of our Dutch network. “What we need is not more money, but a better understanding of how radical innovation works. That knowledge is currently missing.”

Meta-innovation: Innovation of Innovation

A successful invention seems impossible at first, but in hindsight, it becomes obvious. This insight forms the basis of a new innovation paradigm: meta-innovation, or the innovation of the innovation system itself. Radical innovation is not about making incremental changes but about transforming the very framework through which innovation occurs. By addressing the underlying systems of innovation, new opportunities for progress in diverse fields—such as climate policy, energy solutions, and economic structures—emerge.

Hulsman sees an important role for the structure of the Anna Lindh Foundation: “The organizational structure of the Anna Lindh Foundation was an inspiration for me in setting up a radical innovation hub. Only by renewing the innovation system itself can we make significant strides in innovation, climate policy, and strategic independence—without requiring huge sums of money.”

The concept of "innovation hubs" is central to Hulsman’s thinking, where diverse ideas and resources come together to challenge traditional models of innovation. These hubs are not just incubators of new ideas but also systems that allow for meta-innovation, fundamentally questioning how ideas are nurtured and implemented. "The future of innovation lies in creating self-sustaining systems that empower a multitude of solutions, without relying on an unsustainable flow of funds," Hulsman explains.

Would you like to learn more? Read further:

Overview
Why Radical Innovation is More Than Money
The Impact of a Renewed Innovation System
Radical Innovation Hub

Conclusion: A Shift in Innovation Thinking

Acoording to Hulsman the future of strategic independence in Europe and the Middle East will not be found in an ever-increasing budget, but in a fundamental shift in how we approach innovation. By changing the very systems that enable innovation, we can unlock transformative solutions for industries, climate action, and political independence. This approach calls for a profound rethinking of the innovation system—moving beyond traditional financing models to a more sustainable and systemic framework. By focusing on meta-innovation, regions can pave the way for a new, more resilient future.