Knowledge-sharing networks of higher education institutions for innovation and entrepreneurship: evidence from the “DISCO” project case study

The aim of this article is to assess the impact of the inter-organisational collaboration and knowledge-sharing networks among the higher education ecosystems on higher education institutions' (HEIs') innovation potential, based on the DISCO project case study.Design/methodology/approach: The study is based on the self-assessment tool named HEInnovate which was used by higher education institutions (HEIs) engaged in the project to compare the 'before' and 'after' results.Its eight dimensions were integrated with theoretical dimension from the heuristic framework providing a structured way to measure the impact of inter-organisational collaboration on the innovation potential of HEIs.Findings: This study affirms that higher education innovation is best understood as a networked, collaborative, and evolving process.The presented case study of the DISCO project shows the benefits of cooperation among HEIs from different countries, with different levels of development, innovation and entrepreneurship support. Research limitations/implications:The model offers a valuable structure for further comparative analysis across HEI collaboration projects in different regional or disciplinary settings.It also provides a foundation for developing longitudinal impact tracking tools that combine self-assessment data with network analytics and case-based learning.Practical implications: Based on the DISCO project's positive impact on the participating HEIs' innovation potential, the authors provide practical recommendations regarding e.g.focus on digital development, joining the leading entrepreneurial ecosystems, investing in further entrepreneurial support successes and continuing the innovation labs.Social implications: The heuristic framework helps to interpret institutional change more holistically and serves as a guide for both practitioners and policymakers aiming to foster sustainable and scalable innovation in higher education across Europe.Originality/value: Within this heuristic framework, we draw upon a selection of complementary theories and concepts-such as stakeholder theory, co-production and co-creation, knowledge transfer and management, innovation ecosystems, platform theory and L. Gryszkiewicz, S. Kaudela-Baum, P. Kopyciski, M. Oramus living labs -to understand the mechanisms and impact of HEI collaboration in the field of innovation and entrepreneurship education based on the specific case study.