IASP at BOOST Kick-off: a new European project to strengthen innovation in Widening Countries

IASP is proud to announce its participation as a consortium partner in BOOST, a new EU-funded project dedicated to addressing the innovation gap in Europe’s Widening Countries, particularly in Eastern Europe. The project officially launched with a kick-off meeting held in Sofia, Bulgaria on 2-3 July, organised by project coordinator Cleantech Bulgaria. 

Representing IASP at the meeting were Alicia Shelley and Laura Monasterio, who introduced the work plan for the “Community Building, action plan and policy uptake” work package, led by IASP. This work package will focus on fostering collaboration and engagement among stakeholders across the BOOST network, helping to create an active and supportive innovation community. 

BOOST (Broadening Opportunities for Outstanding Scientific Talent) brings together 16 partners from 9 countries: Bulgaria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Romania, and Spain. The project tackles the challenge of transforming strong academic research in Widening Countries into commercially viable products and services. By enhancing cooperation between academic and non-academic sectors, the project aims to create better career prospects and foster entrepreneurship among researchers. 

One of BOOST’s key pillars is the BOOST Learning Environment, a digital space that will provide access to tools, resources, and collaborative learning modules. Additionally, the BOOST ERA Talents Scheme will offer mobility opportunities to 60 researchers, enabling them to gain hands-on experience in industrial settings across Europe.  

By focusing on skills development, practical training, and cross-sector collaboration, BOOST is set to generate a long-lasting impact on research and innovation capabilities in Widening Countries, contributing to a more balanced and competitive European innovation landscape. 

Stay tuned for updates on IASP’s role and activities throughout the project!