INITIATE | Latest Updates

Following the successful implementation of the initial R&I and Policy Labs, the INITIATE project has now moved forward with the replication phase. Five replicator cases — CYI, VINCA, LPNU, UTB, and NURE — are contributing to the further adaptation of the INITIATE approach across different national and institutional contexts.

The primary goal of the R&I and Policy Lab replicators is to drive institutional transformation and capacity building within HEIs, specifically addressing the R&I gap in Widening Countries. These replicators serve as a catalyst for scaling the INITIATE concept, fostering stakeholder engagement, and validating our core framework across different national contexts within the consortium.So far, two replicator R&I Labs have been successfully implemented at VINCA and NURE, with ESEIA supporting the planning and evaluation of both activities. The outcomes and lessons learned from these labs will contribute to further refining the INITIATE approach and identifying opportunities for its wider uptake.

On 24 November 2026, ESEIA will also host a dedicated INITIATE session as part of the 7th ESEIA International Conference, titled “Building Stronger R&I Ecosystems: Early Results from the INITIATE Pilot Sites”, in Lisbon, Portugal. The session will present initial findings and experiences from the INITIATE pilot cases and R&I Labs. Pilot owners UKIM, UNIZAG, and ISCTE will share their experiences and key insights from implementing the R&I and Policy Labs, while invited sister projects will contribute additional expertise and perspectives on strengthening R&I ecosystems and institutional transformation.

The session will take place in hybrid format, providing an opportunity for both in-person and online participation.

For registration and more details about the program: https://7eseiaconference.lneg.pt/