Study Visit II Builds Capacity for Innovation

📍 24 to 26 November 2025 | St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences, Austria

The second CEI Study Visit of 2025 took place on 24 to 26 November in St. Pölten, Austria, hosted by St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences (USTP). Bringing together 15 participants from across Europe, the visit explored how higher education institutions can strengthen their innovation ecosystems and translate research into meaningful societal and economic impact. Through peer learning, case sharing and exchange with regional actors, the programme created a rich environment for discussing practical strategies for knowledge valorisation.

Throughout the visit, participants examined how institutions can support researchers in commercialising their ideas, how stakeholder networks contribute to stronger innovation capacity and how innovation friendly cultures can be nurtured within higher education settings.

Inside the programme

The visit opened within the framework of St. Pölten’s International Week, introducing participants to perspectives on entrepreneurship, social innovation and the European innovation landscape. Sessions included discussions on the role of universities in driving regional development and opportunities for participants to connect with the broader innovation community on campus.

The event began with a welcome from Hannes Raffaseder (CEO of USPT), followed by a keynote from Leo Capari and Sophie Egger, Technology Transfer Managers from tecnet Equity, about knowledge valorisation within Lower Austria's innovation ecosystem. 

Three Spotlight Sessions then provided opportunities for participants to share institutional practices through short presentations and rotating roundtable discussions. The interactive format encouraged exploration of diverse approaches to research based innovation, including culture building, tailored support for different disciplines, approaches to impact measurement and strategies for sustaining innovation over time.

Gabriele Permoser delivered a keynote on the final day, as Head of USTP’s Center for Research and Cooperation and of its Service Unit for Research and Knowledge Transfer. Her contribution explored the university’s regional partnerships and its role within the local innovation ecosystem, underscoring how collaboration across sectors strengthens St. Pölten’s innovation profile and supports its positioning within a wider, competitive landscape.

Participants expressed strong satisfaction with the study visit, noting the value of concrete examples, varied formats and time dedicated to peer exchange. The mix of presentations, interactive sessions and informal networking fostered a productive atmosphere that encouraged learning, collaboration and new ideas. Participants also appreciated the balance between local insights from St. Pölten and broader lessons transferable to their own institutional contexts.

Feedback from the visit will support the design of future CEI Study Visits. Participants highlighted the value of extended networking opportunities, additional hands on or on site components and continued use of interactive formats that promote engagement and knowledge sharing.

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