Scouting that systematically supports innovation

Become a YES-Scout in our exclusive Train-the-Scout training programme for only 15 participants. This free programme is designed for staff at higher education institutions and research organisations who want to systematically support innovation and talent development.

In four practice-oriented online modules, experts from diverse backgrounds will introduce you to scouting methods like talent sourcing, network mapping, systemic team coaching, and process design. You will develop your own scouting project, benefit from structured peer exchange, and build a nationwide network with colleagues in similar roles.

The programme is aimed at transfer and innovation managers at higher education institutions, start-up advisors and scouts looking to (re)define scouting as part of their job profile, as well as institutions seeking to strengthen innovation and talent support on a systematic level.

The conclusion is a joint colloquium, where projects are presented and experiences are reflected upon.

As part of the Train-the-Scout training programme, Steve Wendland developed a practical concept for promoting social impact innovations at the University of Greifswald. The starting point was the question of how research findings, technologies and knowledge can be identified more effectively within complex university structures and harnessed to create social value.
What is particularly exciting about his approach is the shift in perspective: the focus is not on scouting for technologies or ready-made solutions, but on scouting for societal challenges and needs in the region. Instead of first looking for suitable innovations, the approach asks: what problems actually exist locally? And what knowledge, research or people could help to address these challenges?
This has resulted in a challenge-based learning approach that actively connects academia, the city, business and civil society. Together, students, researchers and partners from the field are to develop innovative solutions to real challenges in the region, ranging from affordable housing to the promotion of social participation.
The project creates new spaces for exchange, networking and collaboration, and demonstrates how research can be directly translated into social impact. At the same time, it highlights that scouting does not merely mean identifying potential in technologies or individuals, but can also involve identifying relevant societal challenges at an early stage and strategically bringing stakeholders together, guided by the principle: “From the region, for the region.”