A MODERN EUROPEAN UNIVERSITY
A modern European University
INVEST is a modern European University Alliance that drives responsible transformation in regions and communities by integrating research into education and turning today’s challenges into opportunities. We advance knowledge and strengthen the link between education, research and innovation, while promoting European values, inclusiveness and excellence. Our work is organized around three strategic pillars:
- Regional Transformation, Ecosystems & Entrepreneurship,
- Flexible Education & Work-based Pedagogy, and
- A Centre of Excellence in Research, Development & Innovation (RDI). Our focal areas are the Water–Energy–Food–Environment (WEFE) Nexus, Quality of Life and Entrepreneurship.
We deliver through Living Labs and a quadruple-helix approach (universities, business, public sector, civil society), supported by digital solutions such as the Virtual Campus and EDUC8EU.
Student-centred education
Students co-design their learning and help steer INVEST. We aim for meaningful mobility opportunities—physical, blended and virtual—across the Alliance, with a target that at least 50% of students benefit. A common Student Board ensures student voice in curricula, mobility, Living Labs and RDI.
Our pedagogy is competence-based, challenge-driven and work-based, embedding internships, research practice and regional challenges. We expand flexible learning pathways, including micro-credentials (up to a full Bachelor built on micro-credentials) and STEAM modules, supported by AI-assisted pathway guidance.
By establishing this European University, we INVEST in:
- Sustainable regional impact: Living Labs that tackle real challenges with regional stakeholders, strengthening resilience and entrepreneurship.
- Innovative learning & mobility: Student-centred, modular programmes with embedded mobility and micro-credentials that widen access and recognition.
- A thriving RDI culture: A Centre of Excellence in RDI, open science practices, talent circulation and start-up pathways that connect research to education and society.
- Digital enablement & inclusiveness: A Virtual Campus and shared services that expand high-quality, inclusive learning for diverse learners across the Alliance.