Innovation efforts can fall short not only due to poor strategy or execution, but also human nature. Disruptive innovation demands uncertainty, but uncertainty triggers fear, driving us back to the comfort of the familiar, which kills innovation. This article explores the science behind how innovators unknowingly sabotage progress—and how to break free from the cycle.

EU-funded research often struggles to translate into real-world impact. This article explores how **lean principles** and an **exploitation mindset** can help teams maximize agility and ensure their innovations make a difference—without being constrained by rigid grant structures.