Overcoming Barriers: Enhancing Research Infrastructure Institutional Capacity for Mission-Oriented Innovation Collaboration in LAC Countries

Research Infrastructures (RIs) are essential in transitioning from traditional innovation policies to a mission-oriented approach that addresses societal challenges through collaboration. The Horizon Europe ResInfraPlus workshop will focus on overcoming the institutional barriers that prevent RIs from playing a central role in mission-oriented innovation. Participants from both the EU and LAC regions will discuss the key challenges RIs face in adopting these frameworks, such as limited resources, fragmented collaboration channels, complex governance, and institutional inertia.

The workshop will present findings from a benchmarking exercise that includes document analysis and interviews from selected LAC countries. These insights will highlight successful strategies to address institutional weaknesses and improve international collaboration. Participants will then engage in group discussions to co-create solutions for strengthening institutional capacity. Topics will include anticipatory governance, policy influence, and ecosystem development, all aimed at enabling RIs to contribute more effectively to mission-oriented innovation goals.

Jorge Martins, Senior Scientist at VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, will share his expertise on technology strategy, innovation policy, and the management of innovation processes. With extensive experience in projects funded by Horizon Europe and Business Finland, Martins will provide insights into strengthening RI institutional capacity for mission-oriented innovation collaboration.

The workshop will serve as a platform to create actionable strategies and policy recommendations that enhance the capacity of RIs. It will also strengthen networks between RIs and policy stakeholders across the EU and LAC regions, facilitating collaboration that can drive long-term societal benefits.

By the end of the workshop, participants can expect a clearer understanding of the institutional barriers that RIs face in mission-oriented innovation. They will also gain access to tools and strategies that can be applied to strengthen RI capacity, foster international cooperation, and enhance the overall impact of RIs in addressing global challenges.

Register here.

Mission-Oriented Innovation – Strengthening the Role of Research Infrastructures

Mission-oriented innovation requires a comprehensive approach that combines technological, social, and environmental factors. Research Infrastructures (RIs) are well-positioned to drive these transformations due to their advanced capabilities and broad networks of stakeholders. These infrastructures play a key role in developing solutions to global challenges through collaborative, systemic approaches.

A hybrid workshop, hosted by the RESER International Conference in Helsinki and organized as part of the Horizon Europe ResInfraPlus project, will explore how RIs can strengthen their role in mission-oriented innovation by integrating service innovation thinking. This approach emphasizes the importance of collaboration, bringing together stakeholders from diverse sectors such as policymakers, industries, and citizens to co-create impactful solutions.

Key themes for discussion during the workshop include:

How RIs can combine service innovation with technological advancements to create effective solutions for societal missions.

The role of RIs as platforms for co-creation, facilitating collaboration between various stakeholders.

Strategies for enabling RIs to contribute to lasting value creation and societal impact through mission-oriented innovation frameworks.

Jorge Martins, Senior Scientist at VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, will present his expertise during the workshop. Jorge Martins leads initiatives related to mission-oriented innovation policy, sustainable industry futures, science diplomacy, and research infrastructure governance. During the workshop, he will share insights on how RIs can enhance their institutional capacity to support mission-oriented innovation.

The workshop offers participants an opportunity to explore how RIs can leverage their potential to address global challenges through service innovation and collaboration. By integrating service innovation thinking, RIs can enhance their impact and drive systemic change aligned with societal missions.

Register here.