Higher education professionals looking to strengthen innovation and entrepreneurship in their institutions can now apply for the HEInnovate Train the Trainers Programme 2026. The programme combines online learning with an in-person workshop in Budapest, Hungary, giving participants practical tools to drive institutional change.
Supported by the HEInnovate framework, this opportunity helps educators, administrators, and innovation leaders build skills that promote entrepreneurial thinking, strategic development, and innovation across universities and colleges.
Selected participants will attend a fully funded workshop in Budapest on 8–9 October 2026. Applications close on 30 June 2026.
What is the HEInnovate Train the Trainers Programme?
HEInnovate is a self-assessment and capacity-building platform designed to help higher education institutions improve their innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystems.
The 2026 training programme aims to develop a network of professionals who can guide institutions in using HEInnovate effectively. Participants will learn how to turn assessment results into practical actions that support institutional growth.
The programme also encourages collaboration among higher education experts from different countries and academic environments.
HEInnovate Train the Trainers Programme 2026 Details
| Program Name | HEInnovate Train the Trainers Programme 2026 |
|---|---|
| Host Location | Budapest, Hungary |
| Workshop Dates | 8–9 October 2026 |
| Program Type | Professional Training |
| Number of Participants | 30 |
| Funding | Fully Funded |
| Application Deadline | 30 June 2026 |
What Participants Will Learn
The programme focuses on practical implementation rather than theory alone.
Participants will learn how to:
- Use the HEInnovate framework effectively
- Interpret self-assessment results
- Develop innovation-focused action plans
- Promote entrepreneurship within institutions
- Align innovation activities with institutional goals
- Facilitate HEInnovate workshops for colleagues
- Support organizational transformation initiatives
- Share best practices across higher education networks
These skills can help institutions become more adaptable, innovative, and future-focused.
Programme Structure
The training consists of three connected learning stages.
1. Online Preparation Session
Participants will join a virtual session before the workshop. This phase introduces the framework and prepares attendees for in-person activities.
2. Budapest Workshop
The main event takes place on 8–9 October 2026 in Budapest, Hungary.
During the workshop, participants will engage in:
- Interactive learning activities
- Group discussions
- Practical exercises
- Case studies
- Networking sessions
3. Follow-Up Session
A final online meeting will take place three months after the workshop.
This session allows participants to share experiences and discuss how they applied the training within their institutions.
Who Can Apply?
The programme welcomes professionals working in higher education institutions.
Suitable applicants include:
- University administrators
- Academic leaders
- Entrepreneurship coordinators
- Innovation managers
- Strategic planning specialists
- Research and development professionals
- Quality assurance experts
- Project managers
Previous experience with HEInnovate is helpful but not required.
Selection Criteria
Competition is expected to be strong because only 30 places are available.
Priority may be given to applicants who:
- Have not attended previous HEInnovate trainer workshops
- Work within European Universities Alliances
- Are based in European Union member countries
- Can demonstrate potential institutional impact
Organizers will also consider geographical diversity and gender balance.
Only one participant will be selected from each institution.
Financial Benefits
The programme is fully funded.
Selected participants will receive:
- Free participation in all programme activities
- Accommodation support
- Travel funding
- Registration fee coverage
- Access to training resources
- International networking opportunities
This support allows participants to focus entirely on learning and collaboration.
Why This Programme Matters
Universities face growing pressure to adapt to changing economic and social demands.
Innovation and entrepreneurship have become essential parts of modern higher education.
The HEInnovate framework helps institutions identify strengths, address weaknesses, and develop strategies for long-term growth.
Participants return with practical knowledge that can influence teaching, leadership, research, and institutional development.
Networking Opportunities
One of the strongest benefits of the programme is international collaboration.
Participants will connect with professionals from universities and colleges across Europe and beyond.
These connections can lead to:
- Future partnerships
- Joint projects
- Knowledge sharing
- Research collaborations
- Institutional cooperation
Such networks often continue long after the programme ends.
Workshop Venue
The in-person workshop will be hosted at:
ELTE PPK Kazinczy Utca
Budapest, Kazinczy u. 23–27
Hungary
The venue provides an ideal setting for collaborative learning and professional engagement.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should prepare their application before the deadline.
Applications are evaluated based on professional background, motivation, and potential impact within the applicant’s institution.
Applicants should submit their materials through the official HEInnovate application platform.
Application Deadline
Deadline: 30 June 2026
Early applications are recommended due to the limited number of available places.
Final Thoughts
The HEInnovate Train the Trainers Programme 2026 offers a valuable opportunity for higher education professionals who want to drive innovation and entrepreneurship within their institutions. With full financial support, expert-led training, and international networking opportunities, the programme provides practical tools that can create lasting institutional impact.
For educators and university leaders committed to transformation and innovation, this Budapest-based programme is an opportunity worth considering.
