An interview: Microsoft and the European innovation agenda
04 March 2010
As part of its drive to foster innovation and the knowledge economy in Europe, the Commission has designated 2009 as the Year of Creativity & Innovation.

To help steer the initiative, the Commission has assembled a task-force of 27 European ambassadors from the fields of culture, science, business, education and design. We’re very proud that Jean-Philippe Courtois, President of Microsoft International, was asked to be one of the 27 ambassadors.
The ambassadors were earlier this year tasked with devising a manifesto, which has resulted in a document outlining seven guiding principles which will turn the initiative from a set of goals into a set of tangible actions – these will then be the foundation of the European Innovation Act, which will be launched this coming spring.
After recently taking the stage with Commission President Barroso in Brussels to announce the publication of the manifesto, Jean-Philippe stopped by our offices in Brussels for a fleeting visit, during which time I had the pleasure to interview him about his role as an ambassador and his views on innovation in Europe! As ever, Jean-Philippe gave very interesting insights. Please have a look.