Brussels, 15 May 2025 – The new HEInnovate Expert Group met for the first time on 15 May at the European Commission’s premises in Brussels. The meeting, which also included online participants, opened a new chapter for the platform and focused on how HEInnovate can better serve higher education institutions (HEIs) in the years ahead.
The group brings together 21 experienced professionals working at the intersection of innovation, policy and institutional development in higher education. In their opening remarks, Luca Perego (DG EAC) and Jonathan Potter (OECD) emphasised the importance of improving how HEInnovate’s impact is demonstrated—both within institutions and in the wider policy landscape.
Discussions throughout the day centred on ways to improve the platform’s usability, support materials, and potential for wider application. Topics included:
- offering clearer guidance for different user groups within HEIs;
- strengthening support after completing the self-assessment;
- simplifying resources to support implementation;
- exploring benchmarking and recognition options.
Participants also agreed on the value of embedding HEInnovate more firmly in national and European higher education frameworks. Rather than being seen as a stand-alone tool, it should support institutions in their long-term development planning and innovation strategies.
The outcomes of this meeting will guide the work of the HEInnovate team over the next year. Priorities include updating the platform’s resources, organising new training sessions and workshops, and building stronger links with the wider higher education community.
📅 Upcoming opportunities to get involved:
- 12 June – Introductory webinar for new users
- 18–19 June – Train-the-Trainer session in Berlin (FULL)
- 18-19 June – CEI Study Visit: From Ideas to Action - Advancing Entrepreneurial Education (FULL)
🟢 Institutions and individuals interested in HEInnovate are invited to explore the platform and follow updates using the hashtag #BeAnHEInnovator.