EUREKA was established by a Conference of Ministers of 17 countries and Members of the Commission of the European Communities, meeting in Paris on 17 July 1985.

Since its inception in 1985, substantial public and private funding has been mobilised to support the research and development carried out within the EUREKA framework. This page illustrates some of the highlights of the organisation's history.

The internationally recognised EUREKA label adds value to a project and gives participants a competitive edge in their dealings with financial, technical and commercial partners.

EUREKA currently counts 39 members including European Communities. Several European countries participate in EUREKA cooperation through a network of National Information Points (NIPs).

The affiliation known as Associated Country Status was initiated as part of EUREKA's proactive strategy to enhance cooperation with countries outside of Europe judged to have scientific and research potential.