HEInnovate Train the Trainers Programme 2026 in Budapest, Hungary

Applications are now open for the HEInnovate Train the Trainers Programme 2026, a fully funded international training opportunity that will bring together higher education professionals from across Europe and beyond. The programme includes a two-day in-person workshop in Budapest, Hungary, alongside online preparatory and follow-up sessions designed to help participants maximize the use of the HEInnovate framework within their institutions. Travel, accommodation, and participation costs for selected participants will be fully covered.

The programme is organized under HEInnovate, a joint initiative of the European Commission and the OECD that supports higher education institutions in becoming more innovative, entrepreneurial, and future-ready.

About HEInnovate

HEInnovate is a self-assessment and capacity-building framework developed by the European Commission and the OECD to help higher education institutions strengthen innovation and entrepreneurship. The platform enables universities and colleges to evaluate their strengths, identify areas for improvement, and develop strategic action plans.

Programme Overview

What the Programme Offers

Selected participants will:

• Deepen their understanding of the HEInnovate framework.
• Learn practical tools and techniques for institutional innovation.
• Gain experience using HEInnovate self-assessment resources.
• Explore strategic implementation approaches within higher education institutions.
• Participate in peer learning and international networking.
• Develop skills to organize HEInnovate workshops within their own institutions.
• Receive a certificate upon successful completion of the programme.

Funding Benefits

The programme is fully funded and includes:

• Free participation in all programme activities.
• Travel expenses covered.
• Accommodation covered.
• Access to training materials and resources.
• International networking opportunities.
• Certificate of participation.

Programme Structure

The programme consists of three stages:

1. Preparatory Online Session

Participants will attend an introductory online meeting approximately one month before the in-person workshop.

2. Budapest Workshop

A two-day intensive training workshop will take place in Budapest, Hungary, on 8–9 October 2026.

3. Follow-Up Session

A virtual follow-up session will be organized approximately three months after the Budapest workshop to discuss implementation experiences and lessons learned.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should:

• Work within a higher education institution.
• Be interested in innovation, entrepreneurship, and institutional transformation.
• Be willing to implement HEInnovate approaches within their institution.
• Be available to participate in all programme stages.

Prior knowledge of HEInnovate is beneficial but not required.

Priority Will Be Given To

Applicants who:

• Have never attended a HEInnovate Train the Trainers programme.
• Are affiliated with one of the European Universities Alliances.
• Are based in European Union Member States.

The final selection will also consider gender, institutional, and geographical balance. Only one participant per institution can be selected.

Venue Information

The in-person workshop will be hosted at:

ELTE PPK Kazinczy utca

ELTE PPK Kazinczy utca

Address: Budapest, Kazinczy u. 23–27, Hungary.

Required Documents

Applicants should be prepared to provide:

• Professional information and institutional affiliation.
• Details of their role within a higher education institution.
• Statement explaining how they intend to use HEInnovate at their institution.
• Relevant professional background and experience.

The application places significant emphasis on demonstrating a long-term plan for using HEInnovate within the applicant’s organization.

How to Apply

Interested applicants can submit their applications through the official HEInnovate programme page:

Application Link

Apply for the HEInnovate Train the Trainers Programme 2026

Applicants are encouraged to apply early because only 30 places are available worldwide.

Selection Process

The selection process includes:

1. Submission of an online application.
2. Review of eligibility and motivation.
3. Assessment of institutional impact potential.
4. Consideration of geographical and gender balance.
5. Final participant selection.

Successful applicants will receive further instructions regarding travel and accommodation arrangements.

Application Deadline

Deadline: 30 June 2026. Applications submitted after the deadline may not be considered.

Why You Should Apply

This programme offers a unique opportunity for higher education professionals to:

• Learn directly from HEInnovate experts.
• Build institutional innovation capacity.
• Join an international network of higher education leaders.
• Access fully funded professional development.
• Bring practical innovation strategies back to their institutions.

With all major expenses covered and only 30 participants selected, the programme is highly competitive and valuable for professionals seeking to drive change within higher education.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the programme fully funded?

Yes. Travel, accommodation, and participation costs are covered for selected participants.

Who can apply?

Professionals working in higher education institutions who are interested in innovation and entrepreneurship initiatives.

Do I need previous HEInnovate experience?

No. Previous experience is helpful but not required.

How many participants will be selected?

Only 30 participants will be selected.

When will the workshop take place?

The in-person workshop will be held on 8–9 October 2026 in Budapest, Hungary.

Conclusion

The HEInnovate Train the Trainers Programme 2026 is an exceptional fully funded opportunity for higher education professionals seeking to strengthen innovation and entrepreneurial capacity within their institutions. Through expert-led training, international networking, and practical implementation strategies, participants will gain the knowledge and tools needed to drive meaningful institutional transformation. Interested applicants should submit their applications before 30 June 2026 to secure a chance at one of the limited 30 available places.