Grand Challenges and Public Innovation Policies: An Overview

Social science research highlights the growing importance of major societal challenges such as climate change, public health, and population ageing. These complex challenges, which evolve over time, require a multidisciplinary approach integrating technological and social aspects. Traditional public policies often fall short in addressing these wicked problems, necessitating a shift towards mission-oriented innovation policies where social and environmental objectives guide innovation efforts. This approach entails collaboration among public, private, and non-profit actors, as well as inclusive participation of all stakeholders. Innovation, once seen as a driver of progress, is now subject to criticism. Innovation policies must therefore evolve towards a more thoughtful, inclusive, and flexible approach, focused on collectively addressing wicked problems, with particular attention to stakeholder engagement and the social responsibility of innovation.