RISE Actively Contributes to ASTP Annual Conference 2025 in Vilnius
The ASTP Annual Conference 2025 in Vilnius celebrated 25 years of progress in European knowledge and technology transfer. As long-standing members of ASTP, we deeply value this network for its crucial role in fostering collaboration and opening new opportunities across Europe. This year’s event not only deepened our connections with colleagues across the European tech transfer landscape, but also provided a meaningful opportunity to reaffirm and strengthen our informal network of knowledge transfer professionals in Croatia.
Several members of this growing network took part in the conference, reflecting the increasing strength and visibility. As the network moves toward formal recognition, it marks a promising step forward in enhancing Croatia’s role within the European innovation landscape.
In this inspiring context, RISE was proud to contribute to the conference through three dedicated sessions, each reflecting our commitment to advancing knowledge valorisation, intellectual asset management, and inclusive innovation.
Hosted and moderated Workshop on Enhancing Societal Valorisation through Impact Licensing
On 21 May, the Impact Licensing Initiative (ILI) took centre stage during the conference’s pre-programme, where RISE joined project partners to co-deliver an engaging and well-attended workshop focused on the role of impact licensing in driving societal value. The interactive session, moderated by Ivana Vuka, welcomed over 60 participants and introduced key concepts in impact licensing, including two innovative tools in development: a Quality Label for Impact Licensing and a Clearing House model for identifying technologies with strong societal value.
The workshop included breakout discussions led by Johan Moyersoen, Bruno Vandermeulen, Smiljka Vikic-Topic, and Bruna Pausic, offering participants a chance to engage hands-on with practical challenges around screening technologies and applying inclusive IP strategies. The session concluded with a feedback exercise on policy recommendations for the upcoming EU Framework Programme (FP10), underlining the importance of co-design and forward-thinking in policy shaping.
IAM4RE.eu introduced at the Knowledge Stock Exchange
On 22 May, Lucija Rogina presented IAM4RE.eu to a full room of knowledge transfer, research, and innovation professionals. The presentation outlined IAM4RE.eu’s objectives in strengthening intellectual asset management and standardisation in public research organisations and academic institutions. Several future training opportunities under development were also introduced, expected to launch in 2026.
The session featured the launch of the IAM4RE.eu Landscape Analysis Survey, developed by ASTP. It explores how the EU Codes of Practice are being implemented and where skill and capacity gaps exist, providing key input for upcoming training and support tools.
The high level of engagement was evidenced not only by the packed session but also by the number of participants who approached the team directly to learn more about the project.
Panel Discussion: “David vs. Goliath – Knowledge Valorisation in Action”
RISE also participated in a panel discussion featuring Smiljka Vikic-Topic as one of the panelists. This thought-provoking session explored how bottom-up initiatives and institutional practices can bring EU-level policies, such as the Guiding Principles for Knowledge Valorisation, to life.
Special attention was given to two RISE’s projects as strong examples of EU policy in action: RURACTIVE, which empowers rural communities through integrated smart innovations and capacity-building; and VOICE, which uses an artist-driven approach to foster dialogue and co-create green and digital solutions. Both showcase how locally anchored initiatives can meaningfully support knowledge valorisation across Europe.
This panel also reflected the broader support ecosystem that enables such practices to thrive, the European IP Helpdesk where RISE is actively engaged as a consortium partner. As part of the EU’s first-line IP support service, the EUIPHD provides free guidance to universities, research organisations, and SMEs, helping them navigate intellectual property challenges and implement effective knowledge valorisation strategies. Furthermore, dedicated publications on Intellectual Assets Management and Industry – Academia Collaboration Codes of practices, and dedicated KV Special are part of our publication series.
Together, these contributions underscore RISE’s deep engagement in shaping the future of research valorisation, policy co-creation, and inclusive innovation in Europe. We extend our thanks to ASTP for hosting a dynamic and inspiring conference.
Follow us to stay connected with our ongoing work in building stronger, more equitable research and innovation ecosystems.