WP1 — Strategic Leadership, Governance and Institutional Performance
WP1 establishes the institutional governance structures required to manage innovation effectively across participating HEIs. It introduces Strategic Steering Committees, Green Biotechnology Innovation Units, digital monitoring systems and KPI-based decision-making processes. The work package also strengthens cross-faculty cooperation, academic recognition mechanisms, risk management and engagement with EIT Knowledge and Innovation Communities.
WP2 — Institutional Mapping and Transformation Roadmaps
WP2 assesses the innovation capacity, green biotechnology strengths and research-to-market readiness of each participating HEI. Institutional capabilities, technology assets, TRL levels, IP maturity and regional smart specialisation priorities are mapped using a common methodology. Based on these findings, each HEI develops a three-year transformation roadmap with measurable objectives, responsibilities and performance targets.
WP3 — Innovation and Entrepreneurship Education Reform
WP3 integrates innovation, entrepreneurship, intellectual property, sustainability and market validation competences into STEM education. Accredited and ECTS-compatible micro-credentials, challenge-based learning activities, innovation bootcamps and mentoring programmes are developed and delivered across participating institutions. AI-supported learning analytics, common quality standards and digital certification systems support inclusive, scalable and internationally recognised education.
WP4 — Research-to-Market and Business Generation
WP4 creates a structured pathway for transforming promising research results into validated and market-ready solutions. Innovation scouting, competitive seed funding, translational research clusters and Proof-of-Concept programmes support selected ideas through Technology Readiness Level progression. Stage-gate evaluations, industry validation, IP analysis and market intelligence help successful projects advance toward commercialisation, licensing or start-up creation.
WP5 — Strategic Partnerships and Ecosystem Acceleration
WP5 connects universities and innovation teams with companies, investors, accelerators, public authorities and other ecosystem actors. Collaborative innovation challenges, industry mentoring, venture acceleration, pilot testing, demo days and investor meetings help project teams validate their solutions in real market environments. The work package also supports strategic partnerships, investment readiness, early revenue opportunities and access to capital.
WP6 — Knowledge Sharing, Replication and Long-Term Impact
WP6 ensures that the knowledge, tools and institutional models developed by AI-InnoFOOD can be shared and replicated beyond the consortium. Case studies, policy briefs, implementation guides and a comprehensive replication toolkit are prepared for other European HEIs and innovation organisations. The work package also promotes collaboration with the EIT HEI Community, supports external adopters and develops continuation pathways to sustain project results after the funding period.