EIT Stakeholder Forum 2020. Background for the Online Consultation: New EIT Action to Support the Innovation Capacity of Higher Education Institutions in Europe

Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) are increasingly playing an important role in the innovation process. While some HEIs are actively involved in innovation activities and form a core part of innovation value chains, many are not well-equipped for the innovation age. Some of the biggest obstacles to the success of HEIs in the field of innovation are a lack of relevant capabilities, incentives and sustained support.
To become more integrated in innovation chains and play a stronger role in local economies, HEIs need to develop differentiation strategies, cooperate effectively with businesses, promote an entrepreneurial mindset in students and staff, and better manage digital transformation. In other words, they need to become more entrepreneurial and innovative organisations. This requires a clear strategy, a focused methodological framework and strong institutional support.