On September 22 and 23, 2025, 27 participants from 22 European countries met at Metropolia University of Applied Sciences in Helsinki for the second HEInnovate Train the Trainers Session 2025. The aim of the event was to gain practical insight into the HEInnovate concept, the associated HEInnovate self-assessment and development tool, and to develop concrete ideas for implementation at the participants’ own universities.
The event was moderated by CHE Executive Director Frank Ziegele and Gero Federkeil, Head of International Projects at CHE. Expert contributions were provided by Luciana Grillo (PPMI) and Mona Roman (Metropolia/HEInnovate Expert Group). The focus was on interactive exercises, peer learning, and working together with the HEInnovate Action Cards. The newly introduced program item on change management, which supports participants in implementing innovation and change processes at their universities, was particularly well received.
Participants developed concrete project ideas – from escape games to promote entrepreneurship to strategies for AI literacy – and took the opportunity to network intensively and internationally. A digital follow-up is planned for December 16 to share progress and experiences.
Those who were unable to attend in Helsinki will have the opportunity to participate in an online version of the workshop in November:
- Date: November 19–20, 2025
- Time: 9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. CET each day
- Platform: MS Teams
Applications are open until October 26, 2025. Further information and direct registration via the HEInnovate Online Workshop registration form.
About HEInnovate:
HEInnovate is a self-assessment and development tool for universities that was developed by the European Commission and the OECD. The aim is to support universities in analysing and specifically developing their entrepreneurial and innovative orientation. It helps universities to identify strengths and weaknesses in this area and to derive strategic measures. It helps universities identify strengths and weaknesses in this area and derive strategic measures. Within the framework of HEInnovate, CHE is primarily responsible for supporting the use and promotion of the tool, updating resources, and managing an “Education for Innovation Community.” Further information on HEInnovate can be found here.