How to Boost Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Higher Education Institutions

Abstract

Entrepreneurship and innovation are critical drivers of economic growth, employment creation, and societal development. Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) play a key role in fostering entrepreneurial mindsets and creating innovation-driven ecosystems. However, many universities face challenges, including rigid academic structures, limited industry linkages, and insufficient support programs for academic startups. Against this background, the purpose of this paper is to explore strategies to enhance entrepreneurship and innovation in HEIs by integrating entrepreneurship education, establishing innovation hubs, strengthening industry-academia partnerships, and improving access to funding and mentorship. A robust entrepreneurial ecosystem within HEIs requires a multidisciplinary approach that embeds entrepreneurship in curricula across disciplines. This includes experiential learning methodologies such as business simulations, bootcamps, project-based collaborations, and startup incubators, allowing students to develop problem-solving and risk-taking skills, as well as consider creating their own company as a way of employability. Additionally, faculty members' engagement in entrepreneurial activities, supported by incentives for research commercialization, is crucial for fostering a culture of innovation. This study examines INOPOL – The Entrepreneurship Academy of the Polytechnic University of Coimbra (PUC) – as a case study to illustrate how academic institutions can foster entrepreneurial ecosystems. The findings indicate that INOPOL has played a significant role in integrating entrepreneurship education, promoting innovation, supporting business creation, and facilitating collaboration between academia and industry. A key initiative, Poliempreende, is a national program that provides mentorship, networking, financial support, and incubation opportunities for student-led startups within the polytechnic education network. The results also point out the importance of strategic partnerships in strengthening entrepreneurial ecosystems, providing students with practical experience, mentorship, employment opportunities, and access to funding. Furthermore, the adoption of intellectual property policies that promote technology transfer and the valorisation of research outputs emerges as a crucial success factor. INOPOL has contributed to advancing PUC’s third mission while providing a dynamic and transferable model for integrating entrepreneurship and innovation in higher education.