The Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAS) is actively engaging in the EU's Horizon Europe funding programme, with a particular focus on advancing hydrogen technologies. Corresponding member Evelina Slavcheva and other BAS representatives met with European Commissioner Ekaterina Zaharieva to discuss BAS's involvement in research and innovation. Slavcheva highlighted Bulgaria's progress in hydrogen technologies, presenting plans for an international project on hydrogen fuel in transport and the country's first hydrogen charging station. The necessity of a state policy in hydrogen technologies was underlined. Additionally, BAS aims to inspire young individuals to pursue research careers and enhance the collaboration between science and business. Professor Neli Koseva introduced BAS's Joint Innovation Centre activities, emphasizing projects in green technologies and digitization to achieve technological advancement. The meeting showcased BAS's commitment to driving innovation and sustainability in Bulgaria and beyond.