Over the past months, HEInnovate has taken an active role in major events across Europe, contributing to discussions on how higher education institutions can strengthen their entrepreneurial and innovation capacity. Through expert interventions, panel contributions, and dedicated breakout sessions, the platform continues to support universities in driving institutional transformation.

Below is an overview of recent activities and upcoming engagements where HEInnovate has been present.

SME Assembly 2025: Rethinking talent development

At the SME Assembly 2025, Charlotte Norrman (Linköping University and HEInnovate Expert), speaking during the session Bridging the Talent Gap, highlighted the increasing need for entrepreneurial human capital and the value of stronger cooperation between universities and SMEs. She emphasised that HEInnovate plays an essential role in helping institutions adopt more innovative teaching approaches, deepen collaboration with business, and create environments where challenge-based learning can flourish.

EHESO Policy-Oriented Conference: Strengthening synergies for innovation

At the EHESO conference From data to direction: How can EHESO support the monitoring of the Union of Skills? held on 12 November 2025, HEInnovate experts contributed to the main plenary and thematic discussions.

• Panel on promoting entrepreneurship and innovation in higher education:
  The Expert Group was represented by Peter Joore, joined by Bart Derre from the Community for Educational Innovation. Both shared insights on how HEIs can foster innovation through structured self-assessment and peer learning.

• Breakout session on EHESO–HEInnovate synergies:
  Co-organised by the HEInnovate team and co-moderated with Marian Belko (EIT), this session explored how both initiatives can work together to empower universities and support their strategic development.

Future Skills for Entrepreneurship and Innovation – St. Pölten (Austria)

As part of International Week 2025 at the University of Applied Sciences St. Pölten, on 24 November, HEInnovate will contribute to discussions on how innovation competencies are evolving. HEInnovate Deputy Project Manager Flávia Colus will speak on the panel The European Ecosystem for Innovation & Entrepreneurship, together with leading practitioners in the field. 

Through its participation in these events, HEInnovate continues to build connections, encourage peer learning, and raise awareness of the tools available to support institutional transformation. 

If you would like to explore how HEInnovate can support your institution, visit our Resources and Events sections for upcoming opportunities.