A Replicable Framework of Acceleration Services. A methodological pathway for institutional transformation in Higher Education Institutions

In recent years, Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) across Europe have been recognised for their global leadership in the fields of Research and Innovation (R&I) and called to take on a more active role in driving institutional transformation, making research and innovation more open, inclusive, and aligned with societal needs. This shift is supported by major European policy frameworks such as the European Research Area (ERA) and the European Education Area (EEA). The CATALISI project, funded under the Horizon Europe programme, supports HEIs in this transition by developing and testing tailored tools and services that foster institutional change. One of the project's key outcomes is the design of a replicable framework of acceleration services, a structured and adaptable methodology that guides HEIs in planning, implementing and evaluating strategic institutional transformation processes in R&I. Acceleration services are designed to facilitate and catalyse the process of HEIs’ institutional transformation in the field of Research and Innovation (R&I) and are characterized by an innovative feature that crosses R&I domains. In CATALISI, the 7 identified acceleration services refer to targeted process-oriented services/actions, such as co-creation activities, capacity building, mentoring, peer learning and monitoring, that help institutions move more effectively and efficiently toward their transformation goals. The CATALISI replicable framework of acceleration services offers a systematic way to deploy these services within a broader institutional roadmap, making change both measurable and sustainable. As a matter of fact, it provides a structured, adaptable methodology to guide HEIs in achieving institutional transformation in R&I. Its aim is to foster innovation, inclusiveness, and sustainability through stakeholder engagement, capacity building, and collaborative learning, aligned with European priorities.This report presents the structure, rationale and potential for the uptake of the CATALISI Replicable Framework of acceleration services, designed to be used by individual HEIs, university alliances or intermediary organisations supporting higher education reform.