The IP4OS project has published the Synergy Framework for Knowledge Valorisation, a practical handbook examining how Open Science practices and Intellectual Property management can be aligned to support the exploitation of publicly funded research for effective research knowledge valorisation leading to economic or environmental benefits, social progress or improved policy making. The framework contributes to the objectives of the European Research Area Policy Agenda 2025-2027, with a focus on Open Science and the upscaling of knowledge valorisation.

The paper converts the common perception that Open Science (OS) and Intellectual Property (IP) based approaches are inherently in tension. It instead presents a concerted IP-OS approach, grounded in the principle “as open as possible, as closed as necessary.”

The framework draws on a scoping review of academic literature, a stakeholder survey across the European research and innovation system, and expert webinars. It identifies key barriers to IP-OS synergy, including limited IP literacy, barriers to access and reuse, misaligned incentives, and policy and legal inconsistencies.

Based on this analysis, the framework provides recommendations for researchers, institutions, and policymakers. These include integrating IP and OS policies, strengthening institutional support and capacity building, reforming research assessment, and developing governance frameworks for FAIR and responsibly licensed research assets.

The Synergy Framework offers practical guidance for aligning openness and protection in research, supporting more consistent and effective knowledge valorisation across Europe.

This work constitutes the knowledge base for Europe-wide capacity building activities, empowering researchers and institutions for innovative valorisation pathways. In 2026, IP4OS establishes and trains multi-professional teams and invites to Open Innovation Challenges addressing the IP–OS–AI interplay.