National Inspiration Hubs: Bridging STE(A)M, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation Management

As part of the ST(R)E(A)M IT project (Horizon Widera programme), National Inspiration Hubs (NIHs) aim to establish online networking groups for STE(A)M educators, promoting collaboration, resource sharing, and capacity building. These hubs are designed to tackle gender disparities in STE(A)M and foster sySTE(A)Mic changes in education.

By empowering educators as change agents, the National Inspiration Hubs help to create a pipeline of talent that not only advances innovation in STE(A)M fields but also nurtures the entrepreneurial mindset necessary for the modern workforce. Educators play a crucial role in shaping students’ self-efficacy and career aspirations, making them key figures in fostering future entrepreneurs. Through shared best practices and collaborative learning, educators can encourage students to think creatively, develop problem-solving skills, and turn ideas into viable projects—skills central to both entrepreneurship and innovation management.

The core objectives of the NIHs include:

1. Fostering Collaboration and Community Engagement: Creating a collective effort to transform STE(A)M education by involving educators, governments, NGOs, and local communities. This collaborative approach is key for nurturing innovation ecosySTE(A)Ms that support both entrepreneurship and STE(A)M-driven solutions.
2. Empowering Educators as Change Agents: Teachers are central in shaping students’ attitudes toward entrepreneurship, guiding them to understand the potential of turning their STE(A)M knowledge into business ventures. By providing evidence-based strategies, the hubs aim to equip educators with tools to foster innovation and entrepreneurial thinking.
3. Addressing Gender Disparities in STE(A)M: By offering resources and strategies to overcome sySTE(A)Mic barriers, the NIHs ensure that underrepresented groups, particularly women, can access opportunities in STE(A)M and entrepreneurship, fostering a more inclusive and diverse entrepreneurial ecosySTE(A)M.
4. Building a Sustainable and Scalable Network: The strategic framework for the NIHs includes a structured approach to create scalable networks that support long-term growth in both education and innovation sectors. This sustainability ensures that the impact of these hubs extends beyond the classroom into the entrepreneurial and innovation communities.
5. Contributing to a More Equitable Future: Ultimately, the NIHs aim to build a future where gender does not limit potential. This vision aligns with the need for diverse leaders in innovation management and entrepreneurship, creating a more equitable business landscape that harnesses the talents of all individuals.

Through these inspirational hubs, educators can exchange best practices, collaborate, and build a robust network that encourages innovation, fosters entrepreneurship, and promotes inclusivity within the STE(A)M fields.