In 2025, the Applied Research and Communications Fund focused its work on major global changes in technology, innovation policy, and economic interdependencies. ARC Fund strengthened its role as a platform organization that brings together research, public dialogue, and practical action. This role was supported through international partnerships that connected the organization’s work to widely recognized global policy and analytical frameworks.
Through its participation in the MIT Regional Entrepreneurship Acceleration Program (MIT REAP), ARC Fund used a regional, ecosystem-based approach to innovation and entrepreneurship. The organization also shared Bulgaria’s experience within an international network focused on long-term regional development and learning. In addition, ARC Fund worked with the IMD World Competitiveness Center as a data provider and analytical partner for the IMD Competitiveness Yearbook. This cooperation helped ARC Fund compare Bulgaria’s performance internationally and turn these insights into practical policy recommendations.
In 2025, ARC Fund continued its key initiatives, including the Innovation.bg report and the National Innovation Forum. These activities focused on innovation, technological independence, and economic security. ARC Fund also launched Dialogue Innovation.bg 2040, expanding these initiatives by shifting attention from national priorities to regional innovation governance and stronger local innovation ecosystems.
During the year, ARC Fund also continued to support inclusive and sustainable solutions to major challenges. Its work included strengthening innovation capacity at regional, national, and European levels; encouraging knowledge and innovation transfer in the materials economy; supporting climate adaptation and sustainability; and promoting the inclusion of vulnerable groups.
