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Published:  15 Dec 2023

HEInnovate at 10: a decade of driving innovation in higher education

More than 30 000 users from 1 800 institutions across more than 80 countries have used the online self-assessment to embark on their entrepreneurial journey.

Since 2013, HEInnovate has consistently evolved, undergoing numerous revisions to ensure its relevance in the ever-changing higher education landscape.

2023 update

The latest update to the tool reflects the latest policy developments. It emphasises the role innovative institutions play by:

  • reflecting global societal challenges in their entrepreneurial and innovation agenda
  • fostering sustainable and inclusive innovation in their mission and across all their activities
  • connecting with the entrepreneurial ecosystem and networks
  • contributing to building resilient communities

This update also includes insights from the European strategy for universities.

Action cards set

The newest addition to the HEInnovate tool is a set of action cards. The set provides the most relevant and applicable recommendations, based on already existing successful higher education institutions' entrepreneurship programmes in various fields.

The set can be used as part of interactive workshops or during individual self-reflection exercises.

What is HEInnovate

HEInnovate is a self-reflection tool for higher education institutions (HEIs) who wish to explore their innovative potential. The tool identifies areas of strength and weakness, opens discussion on the entrepreneurial or innovative nature of HEIs and allows them to compare and contrast evolution over time. It guides them through a process of identification, prioritisation and action planning based on 8 key dimensions.

The tool is open to all higher education institutions, it is free and can be used for individual or group self-assessments.

HEInnovate was launched in 2013 by the European Commission in partnership with the OECD and with the support of the HEInnovate expert group.

Published:  15 Dec 2023