Join the 9th Edition of the Open Space
A space for the EUF network members to be trained on internationalisation of higher education, enhance their knowledge, connect, and co-create.
Join the 9th edition of Open Space - a three-day annual event designed by and for EUF network members. This is your moment to enhance your knowledge, connect, and co-create the next chapter of our shared journey in international higher education.
Through interactive training sessions, workshops, strategic discussions and project exchanges, participants will have the opportunity to:
- Build confidence in EU funding and discover how these funding opportunities can support your institution’s goals.
- Learn from experienced professionals in education policy, project evaluation and internationalisation who share practical insights you can apply immediately.
- Exchange honest experiences and lessons learned from ongoing and completed Erasmus+ KA2 projects in a supportive peer environment.
- Shape and refine new ideas together for future initiatives within Erasmus+ KA2 and beyond - turning conversations into concrete next steps.
- Explore key themes such as sustainability, inclusion, new mobility formats and internationalisation in a changing global context, and leave with fresh perspectives and meaningful connections.
Organised within the EUF Project Manager and Advisor Community, Open Space 2026 provides a dynamic and open environment for members to learn from one another, strengthen collaborations, and contribute to shaping shared directions for the network’s future project engagement.
This isn’t just another event - it’s where ideas turn into action, partnerships take root, and the EUF network community builds the future together.
Open Space, Murcia, 2024
From ideas to action: Shaping the future together
Meet your European colleagues at the 9th Edition of the EUF Open Space!
Programme
Online introduction sessions
Exact dates to be announced
Online part I
Introduction to the Open Space 2026 (OS26), getting to know the participants and facilitators, and sharing initial ideas within the OS26 group (1.5 h)
Online part II
Online session about Erasmus+ KA2 calls (centralised and decentralised) (2 h)
- Cooperation Partnerships
- Alliances for Innovation
- Capacity Building in Higher Education
- Forward Looking Projects
Arrival day
Tuesday, 9 June
Novelty in Open Space 2026: Bilateral meetings with HVL
Optional
If you plan to arrive early on Tuesday, 9 June, you will have the opportunity to book a bilateral meeting with colleagues from HVL before the official programme begins. Depending on your areas of interest, meetings can be arranged with either faculty members or administrative units.
Sessions may take place as individual meetings or, if several participants express interest in similar topics, as a small thematic information session.
This is an excellent opportunity to connect with the hosting institution colleagues, learn more about HVL’s activities, and explore potential areas for collaboration and partnership.
Evening
EUF Reception and networking
Morning
Wednesday, June 10
Registration and welcome coffee
Introduction to the Open Space and official welcome by HVL representatives
Keynote: Rethinking the role of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Europe’s new policy context
How can HEIs strategically position themselves within the evolving European priorities? What does the focus on the Union of Skills, competitiveness and innovation mean in practice for internationalisation, partnerships and institutional development and what concrete steps can institutions take in the new programme period to align with the (new?) priorities.
Panel: Connecting European priorities with regional action – the impact of Erasmus+ KA2 on Skills and Innovation ecosystems
A discussion on how European cooperation projects translate into concrete institutional transformation and tangible regional benefits. Exploring how do Erasmus+ cooperation projects strengthen regional ecosystems, innovation capacity and collaboration between HEIs, authorities and clusters.
Afternoon
Track 1: Building solid foundations - understanding and managing the Erasmus + KA2 project cycle
A structured and interactive exploration of how Erasmus+ KA2 projects are built, assessed and implemented. Participants will gain clarity on roles, timelines and the essentials of quality project design. It combines practical guidance to build confidence in developing and managing strong Erasmus+ KA2 proposals.
Track 2: From projects to strategy - embedding Erasmus+ KA2 in institutional development and transformation
This session looks at Erasmus+ KA2 projects through a leadership lens, exploring how institutions can use cooperation projects to advance innovation, skills development and regional relevance. It focuses on aligning European cooperation with institutional priorities, governance and sustainable impact.
Changemakers in action (Part I) - driving institutional transformation
Several rounds of parallel sessions
A dynamic workshop space for those ready to act as change-makers in their organisations. Participants will reflect on various types of challenges and potential solutions, identifying concrete steps to embed innovation into institutional practice and explore how to turn ideas into sustainable institutional impact.
Free time (or social activity)
Open Space Dinner
Morning
Thursday, June 11
Introduction to Day 2
Europe’s Education Policy in transition - understanding the framework for the new programme period
An overview of the core policy shifts influencing higher education in the upcoming programme period (2027-34), from the European Education Area to the Union of Skills and innovation agenda. The session will focus on emerging priorities and reflect on how these (might) influence institutional strategies and international cooperation in HE.
Changemakers in action (Part II) - Designing concrete scenarios for the changer-maker ideas
Several rounds of parallel sessions
Afternoon
From good to excellent – understanding quality criteria in Erasmus+ KA2 applications (evaluators perspective)
What are evaluators really looking for under the current priorities? This session offers first-hand perspectives from Erasmus+ project evaluators on quality, relevance, impact and common pitfalls. Participants will gain concrete guidance to improve project proposal design and increase their chances of success.
Parallel training sessions - Round 1
- Smart budgeting under Lump Sum model: planning and managing with confidence
- Inclusion and green measures in Erasmus+ KA2 projects
- From vision to structure: applying the EUF logical frame in project design
- Sustainability by design: turning project results into lasting value
- Strategic foresight - preparing institutions for the future of European cooperation
*Final selection of topics will be aligned with the interest of participants
Parallel training sessions - Round 2
- Making it matter: how to plan, measure, and communicate project impact
- Work plan management – typical pitfalls and how to implement a successful project management environment
- Quality assurance - designing an adequate quality assurance and control plan for your project
- Leading international project teams - key aspects to succeed and maintain high motivation level throughout project lifetime
- Alliances and Networks – maximising institutional impact from international collaboration
*Final selection of topics will be aligned with the interest of participants
Social activity and free time
Morning
Friday, June 12
Introduction to Day 3
Presentation of change-maker parallel session outcomes
Achieving excellence with AI in KA2 project applications: a new paradigm?
How can artificial intelligence meaningfully support the development of high-quality Erasmus+ KA2 proposals while respecting integrity/authenticity and transparency? This session explores the opportunities, limitations and evolving expectations around the responsible use of AI.
Open Space take-aways: what are the next steps?
Afternoon
Informal networking (optional) and farewell!
Group photo
Open Space 2024 – Murcia, Spain
Changemakers session
Open Space 2025 – Limerick, Ireland
Group work
Open Space 2023 – Split, Croatia
Presentation
Open Space 2024 – Murcia, Spain
University of Murcia
Open Space 2024 – Murcia, Spain
Registration
Open Space 2024 – Murcia, Spain
Project pitch session
Open Space 2025 – Limerick, Ireland
Open Space 2024
Murcia, Spain
Open Space 2024
Open Space 2024 – Murcia, Spain
Poster gallery walk
Open Space 2024 – Murcia, Spain
City visit
Open Space 2024 – Murcia, Spain
Group work
Open Space 2023 – Split, Croatia
Open Space 2024
Murcia, Spain
Team in front of the PADMICA poster
Open Space 2024 – Murcia, Spain
Open Space 2024
Murcia, Spain
City visit
Open Space 2024 – Murcia, Spain
Hurling
Open Space 2025 – Limerick, Ireland
City visit
Open Space 2024 – Murcia, Spain
Panel session
Open Space 2023 – Split, Croatia
Plenary session
Open Space 2024 – Murcia, Spain
Impact panel
Open Space 2025 – Limerick, Ireland
Open Space 2024
Open Space 2024 – Murcia, Spain
Group photo
Open Space 2025 – Limerick, Ireland
Open Space 2024
Murcia, Spain
Sessions
Open Space 2023 – Split, Croatia
Group photo
Open Space 2023 – Split, Croatia
Registration
Open Space 2024 – Murcia, Spain
Joachim Wyssling
Open Space 2024 – Murcia, Spain
Presentation
Open Space 2024 – Murcia, Spain
Open Space 2023
Open Space 2023 – Split, Croatia
Western Norway University of Applied Sciences
Western Norway University of Applied Sciences (HVL) spans five campuses along 400 kilometers of Norway’s western coast, where dramatic fjords and mountain landscapes surround each location. As one of the country’s largest higher education institutions, HVL welcomes around 16,500 students into vibrant academic communities rooted in health and social sciences, engineering, teacher education, maritime studies, natural sciences, culture and sports, social sciences, economics, and management.
Our professional-oriented profile is reflected in how we combine education, research, and development to generate knowledge that is globally anchored and locally impactful. Looking ahead, HVL’s international strategy for 2025–2030 sets a clear course for deepening our global engagement. We aim to further build on our academic strengths, foster long-term partnerships across borders, and connect international cooperation with regional development.
We’re excited to welcome you to our biggest campus in Bergen! The campus is located in Kronstad, just minutes from Bergen’s city center, offering easy access to urban amenities and breathtaking nature.
Bergen, Norway
Nestled between seven mountains and facing the North Sea, Bergen is Norway’s second largest city and a gateway to the country’s iconic fjords.
With a population of approximately 300,000, Bergen blends urban energy with natural beauty. Known for its frequent rainfall, locals embrace the weather with humor and resilience. However, the lucky ones visiting in May and June might catch a sunny day. The surrounding mountains offer stunning hiking trails and panoramic views, while the nearby fjords attract visitors from around the world.
Bergen is also a cultural powerhouse. It’s the birthplace of composer Edvard Grieg, known for its black metal scene, and has produced famous artists like Kygo, Kings of Convenience, and Aurora. It also hosts numerous festivals including Bergen International Festival , Nattjazz and Bergenfest. The city’s universities and research institutions contribute to a vibrant academic scene, while its seafood markets and cozy cafés reflect a strong culinary tradition.
No matter your interests, Bergen’s unique blend of nature, history, and culture captures the essence of Norway!
For further information about Bergen: Visit Bergen
Registration
Registration deadlines
Early Bird - 12.4.2026
Full Pass - 30.4.2026
The CO-Organiser
The European University Foundation (EUF) is a network of universities established in 35 countries. It stands for diversity and social fairness in Higher Education and aims to accelerate the modernisation of the European Higher Education Area. The network deploys intensive cooperation and policy experimentation under five key pillars:
- Digital Higher Education both for governance and provision of education
- Entrepreneurship and employability skills of graduates
- Policy innovation at national and European level
- Active citizenship of students and
- Quality mobility for all
Included
- All training sessions
- 3 lunches
- Coffee breaks
- 1 Open Space Dinner
- Guided tour in Murcia
- Visit to Cartagena
Erasmus+ Staff Mobility
Mobility agreements
Higher Education staff can use Erasmus+ staff mobility funding to participate in the EUF Open Space 2026. Please contact the responsible person in your institution to find out more about your eligibility.
In order to get the Staff Training Grant Agreement duly signed please send us completed and signed agreements, and ensure the section for the receiving institution is properly filled out. Please, send the agreements to openspace@uni-foundation.eu.
| Name: Western Norway University of Applied Sciences (HVL) Erasmus code (if applicable): N BERGEN14 Address: Postbox 7030, 5020 Bergen Country code: NORWAY Contact person: Marit Schulstad Wasa, Erasmus coordinator Contact person e-mail / phone: international@hvl.no Size of enterprise: >250 employees |
Invitation letter
We can provide an invitation letter if required. Please, contact openspace@uni-foundation.eu.
Pricing
- EUF network university - 360 EUR
- Other institution - 460 EUR
- Speaker/Contributor - 260 EUR
Travel
Travel and Accommodation Suggestions
Airport: Bergen Flesland Airport Getting from Bergen Airport to the City Centre The Bergen Light Rail (Bybanen) runs directly from the airport to the city centre. The ride takes about 40 minutes. Just hop on and ride to one of the final stations closest to your hotel. The fare is 49 NOK, and tickets can be purchased at the station or via the ‘Skyss Billett’ app. Taxis are also available, though they tend to be quite expensive in Norway. A typical ride to the city centre costs around 650 NOK. Our campus is located just a few stops from the city centre with the Bergen Light Rail, and is very easy to access. You can purchase your tickets at any stop, or through the ‘Skyss Billett' app (App Store, Google Play Store). Campus address: Inndalsveien 28, 5063 Bergen (Google Map URL) Light Rail Stop: Kronstad (Google Map URL)
Where to stay
We recommend booking a hotel in the city centre.
Breeze Hotel
We’ve secured a special rate at Breeze Hotel, centrally located and budget-friendly. They’re holding 50 rooms for us until May 9th, priced between 1500–1700 NOK per night, depending on room type. This is likely the best deal available in Bergen during this period. Keep in mind that breakfast is not included, but they do have a breakfast deal with a café nearby.
To book: email contact@breezehotels.no and include “HVL – BREEZE Bergen City” in the subject line.
Scandic Hotels and Strawberry Hotels
Scandic Hotels and Strawberry hotels have multiple locations throughout the city center. They could not hold any rooms for us, but early booking may give you access to discounted rates (follow the links). Bergen hotels fill up quickly during peak season, so we recommend booking early to secure an okay price.
Montana Hostel
We’ve reserved 10 single rooms at Montana Hostel outside the city centre. To book: email bergen.montana@hihostels.no and include reservation number 65498. Standard single room: 1440 NOK/night, Economy single room: 1327 NOK/night. Breakfast is included. Keep in mind that this location is outside of the city centre.
If none of these options suit your needs, feel free to explore other accommodations. We can’t wait to welcome you to Bergen!
Accommodation suggestions
We recommend booking a hotel in the city centre.
Breeze Hotels
Montana Hotel
Scandic Hotels
Strawberry hotels
Most recent editions
Open Space 2019
The 5th edition of the EUF Open Space took place in Versailles, France, from the 3rd to the 5th of July. The 3-day event was hosted by the the University of Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines.
Open Space 2018
The 4th edition of the EUF Space took place in Thessaloniki, Greece, from the 20th to the 22nd of June. The 3-day event was hosted by the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki.
No Results Found
The page you requested could not be found. Try refining your search, or use the navigation above to locate the post.
Testimonials
Based on anonymous survey
%
Participants recommend this event
%
Participants built useful contacts
%
Participants would like to attend similar events organised by the EUF
What a great and enriching experience the EUF Open Space 2025 has been💡 - thank you everyone for sharing your expertise, for developing new - and possibly change making - ideas, for collaborating internationally to Build up a joint European Education Area - and last but not least, for the wonderful Irish dance and tin whistle lessons 🍀❤️!
The EUF Open Space was a very special experience, friendly, well-organised, and full of inspiring ideas. I really enjoyed meeting people from so many different institutions and learning about their work. It was a great chance to connect, share, and feel part of a wider community.
This was the first time I have attended an Open Space event, but after the 1st day I was sure that it has to be a "must" in the office activities' annual calendar, side by side to EAIE Conference or other similar events. It has been a truly enriching experience!
Highly recommended - very well organised in a very beautiful place and very enjoyable, productive and inspiring. Many thanks 😉
The atmosphere was professional but relaxed at the same time. Friendliness and smiles all around. That's a great way to work.
Great opportunity to hear and learn from the experiences of higher education peers across Europe on EU funding opportunities, and exchange ideas around sustainability, inclusion, and innovative mobility formats.
Lots of positives to take out from this event on my side after three intense days!
🤝 Whether it was through workshops, activities or informal exchanges, I had the chance to exchange and work with much more experienced peers from all over Europe, mostly regarding Erasmus+ KA2 Projects, but not only!
Such a fantastic time at the EUF Open Space last week! Brilliantly organised by the EUF - European University Foundation and hosted by the Universidad de Murcia. We gained valuable insights and perspectives from senior professionals, sure to be useful for new opportunities. Already looking forward to next year's event!
The organisation was excellent. There was a great mastery of all the topics covered and the practical exercises were well thought out. The atmosphere was great too.
You leave an Open Space event a slightly different person: motivated to tackle projects more strategically, encouraged to pursue internationalisation more comprehensively, and inspired to be an active part of a truly caring and competent international higher education community.
It was beyond inspiring to meet many fellow Higher Education colleagues and be a part of this lovely group for the week.
I enjoyed most that we did not only discuss "the usual suspects" of Erasmus+ topics, but went into highly relevant issues like AI, the quality of mobility and the latest EU research and education policy developments.
Lovely atmosphere and meeting a lot of new colleagues - superb networking and reaching my goal of learning more about internationalisation at home.
Excellent attention to the organisation, to the well-being of the participants and to the overall content relevance of the workshops. It was very worthwhile!
Title photo by Santiago Lopez-Pastor, license CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED