EAIC General Assembly elects new board members

The European Association of Innovation Consultants (EAIC) General Assembly elected 12 new board members for the upcoming period on 26 June 2023. The board is composed of 7 women and 5 men, making in one of the most women-led board of directors of an EU trade association.

Euro-Funding’s European Affairs Director, Marie Latour, was elected as a new member of the board of directors.

Marie has a large experience in the management of European projects and a great understanding of key European Innovation Programmes. Prior joining the innovation consultancy sector in 2014, she was working in the renewable energy sector advocating for the deployment of solar energy across Europe. Marie Latour holds a Master in European Affairs and has followed an Executive Master course in International Associations Management at Brussels Schools of Economics in 2022.

Among her motivations for serving as a board member, Marie would like to contribute to transforming the association into the recognized voice of the sector towards EU decision-makers. She firmly believes in the importance of advocating for strong professional standards within the industry to improve the image of innovation consultants.

Having co-founded EAIC in 2019 and then become board member until September 2021, Marie’s track record of contributing to the association’s activities is exemplary. She has played a key role in developing EAIC’s communication and setting the basis for the professionalisation of the association.

During the General Assembly, an insightful debate took place regarding the ever-increasing utilization of AI-based tools and their integration across the entire project value chain. This inclusive approach spans from the initial stages of identifying funding opportunities to the crucial tasks of grant writing and evaluating proposals. The discussions provided a platform for members to exchange ideas, share best practices, and explore the potential challenges and opportunities presented by this evolving landscape.

The incorporation of AI tools throughout the project value chain is expected to revolutionize the way innovation consultants operate, enabling them to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and unlock new possibilities for their clients. The EAIC aims to stay at the forefront of this technological advancement, fostering an environment where members can leverage AI to maximize their impact and offer cutting-edge solutions to their clientele.

As the new executive board takes charge, the EAIC is poised to reinforce its position as a driving force behind European innovation. Through collaboration, advocacy, and embracing technological advancements, the association and its members are dedicated to propelling Europe’s research and innovation landscape to new heights, all while advancing the innovation consulting industry in Europe.