Abstract. Following the integration of automated workflows, as well as the rapid expansion of Artificial Intelligence in research, the acceleration of science has become heavily dependent on open and stream-lined access to research data, thereby making good and consistent data management an imperative. Commencing with addressing EU-funded research and innovation projects from a broader perspective, the paper then delves into the specificities of data management plans, explaining their significant role, as well as availing an example of a Horizon Europe project, funded by the European Commission, namely, “DATAMITE