The European Commission has confirmed the appointment of 18 board members to its flagship institute is charged with promoting business innovation through technology.

The European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) new Board includes a number of academics specialising in technology and science, as well as business representatives, including Viik Linnar, a director at internet telephony pioneer, Skype.

"I am delighted with the nomination of the EIT's first Governing Board," said European Commission President José Manuel Barroso in a statement. "The EIT is soon to become a reality. Europe needs more than ever a strong commitment to innovation and technology."

The EIT board members are responsible for establishing so-called Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs), which will be the primary mechanisms that will allow European businesses to tap into the latest technology advances.

The EIT board will hold its first meeting in Budapest on 15 September 2008.