Science Ministers Adopted Key Points for an Innovation Freedom Act (Germany, June 2026)
The Conference of Science Ministers adopted a key points paper on the planned federal Innovation Freedom Act. The states called for reduced bureaucracy, faster procedures and more legal certainty for universities, research institutions and transfer activities.
The Conference of Science Ministers adopted a key points paper on the planned federal Innovation Freedom Act. The states called for reduced bureaucracy, faster procedures and more legal certainty for universities, research institutions and transfer activities.
What Changed?
The states set out ten priorities for a more innovation-friendly research framework, including better rules for research data and AI, more flexible working conditions in science, faster research-building approvals, modern budget and procurement rules, and simpler transfer and IP procedures.
Old System vs New System
Universities and research institutions faced bureaucratic procedures, fragmented interpretation and legal uncertainty that the states say can delay research, cooperation and transfer.
The state science ministers have adopted a common position urging the federal government to design an Innovation Freedom Act that gives research organizations more flexibility, clearer procedures and stronger transfer conditions.
Who Is Affected?
Student Impact
Students may benefit indirectly through stronger research environments, faster innovation transfer and more attractive universities if reforms are enacted.
Parent / Family Impact
There is limited direct family impact, but families with university-age students may see stronger university research and innovation capacity over time.
School / Institution Impact
Schools are not directly affected, except where university-school research cooperation or teacher education research projects benefit from more flexible research rules.
Teacher / Staff Impact
University teaching staff and researchers may benefit if future federal legislation reduces administrative burdens and improves conditions for research and transfer.
Key Dates
- Key points paper adopted: 2026-06-29
- federal Innovation Freedom Act under further development.
What To Do
- Universities and research institutions should monitor the federal legislative process and identify administrative barriers that may be addressed through the planned law.
What To Watch Next
The main next step is federal drafting and negotiation of the Innovation Freedom Act, including how state priorities are reflected in the bill.
Global Context
The proposal matters internationally because Germany is trying to improve the competitiveness of its higher education and research system by reducing bureaucracy and speeding up innovation transfer.
Source Record
Source type: Official announcement
Source name: Wissenschaftsministerkonferenz / Kultusministerkonferenz (KMK)