Open Innovation for Societal Impact: Bridging Academia and Society

This interactive workshop explores the transformative role of open innovation in enhancing the societal relevance and impact of academic research. With growing demand for collaborative, cross-sector solutions to sustainability and digital challenges, universities must move beyond traditional knowledge silos. Through real-world case studies, practical tools, and group activities, participants will learn how to design and implement open innovation strategies that align with policy priorities (e.g., European Innovation Agenda, Green Deal) and engage stakeholders across the quadruple helix—academia, industry, government, and civil society. The session will also introduce frameworks such as Living Labs, co-creation models, and inclusive innovation ecosystems. Ideal for educators, researchers, and institutional leaders aiming to drive innovation with real-world value.