Improving tools towards digitalization is an essential need in the era of instantaneity. The flow of information and data has evolved rapidly and TRUE's commitment is to help institutions keep up with the pace of change. This week we are happy to introduce you one of our partners, the University of Montpellier. Université de Montpellier is the educational public institution based on the experimental scientific, cultural and professional purpose. Through their incubator, Incubateur UM I-Lab, they support students, young graduates, doctoral students and researchers to develop their entrepreneurial projects. We spoke with Gaëtan Lan Sun Luk, Director of the Innovation and Partnerships Department, about the impact of the project.
Q: In general terms, what are the benefits that TRUE has helped to implement in your institution or organization?
A: The TRUE project has been the driving force behind the mindset changes actions within the institution. With this project, it was possible to create the first office exclusively dedicated to innovation and entrepreneurship (TTO), in addition to the numerous activities that have been developed with all the actors of the HEI. Moreover, the relationship between TRUE’ partners has been also an add-value regarding the share of good practices and the definition of common actions that increase our knowledge and capabilities.
Q: What are the future opportunities that open up in your institution or organization thanks to the impact of TRUE?
A: The creation of a strategy based in the quadruple helix (academia, research, industry/business, society) that strength the relationships inside and outside HEI. This vision and, consequently, its implementation based on a road map for the next years is possible due to the TRUE project and the massive work developed by all team members.
Q: What is the definition of entrepreneurship and innovation for your institution or organization? Is there consistency between this and the values of the TRUE project?
A: Innovation is the process not only to create new products and/or services, but also to improve things that already exists. The innovation’ process could be related to solve societal issues, as well as, to develop new needs.
Entrepreneurship is a way of thinking. It is the method that gives life to the innovation processes. It is the business’ vision behind the ideas, innovation and research.
I do believe that these definitions are in line with the values shared by TRUE project and, therefore, its impact on our HEI is so relevant.
We are looking forward to presenting major impacts in the following weeks, stay tuned for more!