| Name of activity/title | The Bridge |
| Domain/action | Domain 3: Contribution to developing innovations and businesses Action: – Structures for innovation- driven research Domain 4: Enhancing the quality of innovation and entrepreneurial education Actions: – Innovation and entrepreneurial curricula – Internship in businesses |
| Goal of activity/short summary | The Bridge is a unique long-term and strategic partnership agreement between Linnaeus University and Södra and IKEA. The focus is on research and education in forestry, innovation, and sustainability through a partnership between university and industry. The aim is to bridge the academic and entrepreneurial world by dynamic exchange and the creation of new knowledge. The ambition is to bring new perspectives, breakthrough innovations, and mutual benefit and thereby strengthening regional competitiveness and increase international visibility. |
| Type of stakeholders involved | University, industry |
| Description how conducted | Industry partners contribute to program and course development, the lectures, thesis opportunities, projects to provide students with practical experience, industry specific knowledge and skills. Industry funding and collaboration with the university for multidisciplinary and cutting-edge research |
| Resources required | Funding from industry and university. Industry input and expertise to the education. |
| Lessons learned/success factors | High-quality education can be provided with a close relationship between students and industry. Cooperation supports innovations and research for new applications of wood in order to reduce the use of virgin, fossil materials and replace them with renewable bio-based alternatives. Development of innovative technologies in order to utilize wood in sustainable ways. Broad perspectives that combine social, economic, and environmental aspects to bring solutions to mitigate climate change and build resilience. |
| Time period | Long term collaboration. |
| Link (if relevant) | https://lnu.se/en/research/searchresearch/the-bridge/ |
| Partner who submitted the practice | Linnaeus University |
| Key words | Forestry industry, strategic partnerships, innovation education, employment opportunities, real-life challenges |
Categories:idea bank