In August 2024, Universidad del Rosario hosted participants from across Latin America and Europe for the “Fostering Innovation Management and University-Business Linkages at Higher Education Institutions – iN4iN LATAM Chapter” event. This gathering, funded by Erasmus-DAAD, united a network of universities committed to advancing innovation management and strengthening partnerships across academia, government, and the private sector.
Universidad del Rosario’s dedication to innovation shines through its dynamic ecosystem, which promotes research and collaboration across multiple sectors. Through initiatives like UR STEAM, the university nurtures scientific talent and fosters cooperation with both national and international partners. This approach aligns seamlessly with the goals of the iN4iN project, which aims to integrate innovation management into academic programs and promote research exchanges among institutions.
The event brought together key project coordinators, including Dr. Utz Dornberger from Leipzig University, Erick Alvarado Barrantes from the Universidad Técnica Nacional de Costa Rica, Joe Bryan Lucero Chuquista from the Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, and Dr. Aglaya Batz from Universidad del Rosario. Their presence highlighted the collaborative spirit that lies at the heart of the project, reinforcing the shared commitment to innovation and partnership.
Throughout the event, participants delved into best practices for embedding innovation management into academic curricula. Universities showcased projects such as the creation of a Master’s program in Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the Universidad Técnica Nacional in Costa Rica, demonstrating how academic institutions can address societal challenges through specialized training and curriculum development. Additionally, attendees had the opportunity to experience Colombia’s rich cultural heritage, with visits to the Salt Mine in Zipaquirá and Bogotá’s historic center, highlighting the role of cultural exchange in building strong, collaborative relationships.
The week culminated with the iN4iN LATAM conference on Thursday 8th, which featured diverse speakers from the IN4IN network. The conference included insightful case studies on capacity building and service learning, underscoring how universities can drive societal change—not just by generating knowledge, but by building meaningful connections with the wider world.
With these strengthened partnerships and expanded networks, the iN4iN project is well-positioned to foster sustainable innovation for years to come, exemplifying how academic institutions can be powerful catalysts for transformative change.